Checking your driver in Windows 10 helps ensure hardware runs smoothly and prevents error messages. This guide walks you through the most reliable ways to see device status, update drivers, and troubleshoot issues quickly.
Use these methods to keep your system stable, improve performance, and avoid conflicts between hardware and software components.
| Method | When to Use | Key Benefit | Access Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device Manager | Quick status and updates | Central view of all drivers | Admin recommended |
| Settings > Windows Update | Prefer automatic updates | Downloads approved drivers | Standard user |
| Manufacturer website | Need latest features or fixes | Exact version for your model | Admin required |
| Powershell & DISM | Troubleshoot hidden errors | Command-line detail logs | Admin required |
How to Check Driver Status in Device Manager
Device Manager is the primary place to check driver Windows 10 status at a glance. You can see which devices are working, which have issues, and which are disabled.
Follow the steps below to open Device Manager and inspect driver health without installing extra tools.
With a clear view of problem devices, you can act faster on updates, rollbacks, or uninstall operations.
Open Device Manager
Press Windows key + X and choose Device Manager from the menu, or search for it in the Start menu.
Identify Problem Indicators
Look for yellow exclamation marks, red X icons, or devices labeled as Unknown device, which signal driver issues.
View Driver Properties
Right-click a device, select Properties, and check the Driver tab for version, date, and provider information.
Update Drivers Through Windows Update
Windows Update often provides stable, tested driver versions automatically, reducing manual effort for many devices.
Keeping this feature enabled ensures your system receives security patches and compatibility improvements over time.
You can still override specific drivers later if you need features from newer versions.
Check for Updates
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates to download latest drivers.
View Installed Driver Packages
In Update History, click on Installed updates to see driver packages applied to your system.
Download Drivers from the Hardware Manufacturer
For graphics cards, network adapters, or chipset components, the manufacturer site often offers more recent or specialized versions than Windows Update.
Using the exact model identifier ensures compatibility and reduces the risk of system instability caused by mismatched files.
Always prioritize official support pages over third-party driver repositories.
Find Your Device Model
Check your PC or motherboard documentation for the exact product name and series used during installation.
Install the Downloaded Package
Run the vendor installer or use Device Manager to update driver by browsing to the downloaded folder.
Troubleshoot with Command-Line Tools
Advanced users can leverage DISM and SFC to repair system images and resolve driver corruption that is not visible in the UI.
PowerShell commands provide detailed logs and allow you to export driver state for backup or migration purposes.
Use these tools carefully, as improper commands can affect system stability.
Run DISM to Fix Component Store
Execute DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth in an elevated console to prepare for driver repairs.
Run SFC to Protect System Files
Run sfc /scannow to detect and restore corrupted system files linked to driver functionality.
Key Takeaways for Driver Maintenance
- Use Device Manager for a quick overview of driver status and errors.
- Prefer Windows Update for automatic, safe driver updates on most devices.
- Visit the hardware manufacturer site for the latest firmware and features.
- Run DISM and SFC when system corruption is suspected.
- Create restore points before major driver changes to enable quick rollback.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why does Windows say driver is missing or not working?
This usually means the driver file is corrupted, not installed, or incompatible with your current Windows build.
Can I rollback a driver if an update causes problems?
Yes, in Device Manager Properties > Driver tab, choose Roll Back Driver if the option is available.
Should I disable driver signature enforcement to install older drivers?
Only do this temporarily on test machines, as it reduces security and may cause stability issues on production systems.
How often should I check and update my drivers on Windows 10?
Check driver Windows 10 status monthly or when you notice performance drops, hardware glitches, or after major Windows updates.