Driver updates

[TELL]

Hi all/

Is there anything 'built in' XP Pro to check for driver updates or can anyone recommend a programme which will do the same (safely)

Tell

[Medico]

Most of the Driver Update apps are a bunch of , well lets just say this is a family forum.

I always found it pretty easy to manually go to sites and check. Plus this allowed me to learn how this process worked a little better. You can check in Device Manager for the names and model numbers of hardware devices in your system then just make a quick trip online to the manufacturer's web site for their support area. Most PC manufacturer's also have a support area on their web sites where they post the latest approved drivers and software. Plus quite often MS provides approved drivers in WU.

[TELL]

Many thanks for your reply Ted/

I have downloaded from Epson a driver update for my Stylus DX8400 all in one printer but I cannot find any mention in Device Manager of my printers (I have two) I have clicked on all the + signs ~ nothing!

Tell

[Medico]

You did not mention printer in your original post. Generally my printer drivers and software came as .exe files. I downloaded them and executed the files to load the new drivers. I just checked on the Epson site for the drivers for your printer, and they were .exe as well so all you need to do is download and install them. You do not have to supply an email address, just click no thanks or whatever.

[Paul T]

If your devices are working nicely you don't need a driver update. Better off running Secunia PSI and fixing the holes in all the other programs you've loaded.

cheers, Paul

[TELL]

Thanks Ted all done! How easy is that when you know how.
Many thanks for your help

Tell

[Medico]

Glad I could be of assistance.

[jgstanley]

...If your devices are working nicely you don't need a driver update. Better off running Secunia PSI and fixing the holes in all the other programs you've loaded...

Coincidentally, I have received bad information (e.g. non-appropriate updates for programs and drivers) from Secunia PSI, but overall it is a good resource. The best resource for your hardware is usually the manufacturer.

Microsoft Update is the only approved built-in source for XP (and up) but is sometimes not the best option. The actual hardware manufacturers (Epson, HP, Dell, IBM, Xerox, etc.) always have the latest applicable drivers for your hardware. In my experience, third-parties sometimes either pose a security risk or do not actually have the proper/latest drivers for your hardware compared to the source manufacturers.