How to Update Video Drivers in Windows 11
Video drivers are the software that helps Windows 11 talk to your graphics card so games and videos look right. Updating your video drivers fixes visual glitches, speeds up games, and stops random crashes on your PC.
Most computers get these updates automatically through Windows Update , but you can also install them by hand when you need the newest version right away.
Update video drivers through Windows Optional Updates by going to Settings Windows Update Advanced options Optional updates. Alternatively, use Device Manager by right-clicking your display adapter and selecting “Update driver,” or download directly from the manufacturer’s website.
1Update Video Drivers Using Windows Optional Updates
Windows sometimes bundles additional hardware packages inside optional catalogs. Checking these repositories involves a specific sequence of menu selections:
- Click the Start menu (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner.
- Select Settings (the gear icon).
- In Settings, click Windows Update on the left side.
- Then click Advanced options.
- Next, click Optional updates.
- Look for any video driver updates listed here. If you see one, check the box next to it and click Download & install.
Selecting available packages prompts Windows to fetch and apply the latest display software automatically.
2Update Video Drivers Using Device Manager
Device Manager provides direct control when automated tools fail to locate missing packages:
- First, find out which video card your computer has. You can learn how here: How to check graphics card details in Windows 11.
- Once you know your video card, click the Start menu and type Device Manager.
- Click on the Device Manager app that appears.
Next:
- In Device Manager, find and click the arrow next to Display adapters to expand it.
- Right-click your video card name (for example, Intel(R) HD Graphics 520) and select Update driver.
Then choose:
- Browse my computer for drivers – if you already downloaded the driver from the manufacturer’s website.
- or Search automatically for drivers – let Windows try to find the latest driver online.
Selecting local directory options requires pointing the wizard toward the target folder before clicking Next to execute the script.
Manual selection lists allow administrators to choose specific hardware iterations stored locally, which helps when rolling back unstable revisions.
Highlighting a preferred build and clicking OK initiates the final writing phase.
Rebooting the hardware after installation ensures the kernel loads the new binaries properly.
3Download and Install Drivers from the Manufacturer’s Website
When Windows misses an update or you need the absolute latest performance patches, grab the installer straight from the hardware vendor.
Official repositories for major silicon manufacturers host signed installation packages:
Navigating to the correct portal requires identifying your exact card architecture, downloading the package, and executing the binary.
Summary
- Updating your video driver can help fix video or game problems and make your computer run better.
- You can update drivers using Windows Optional updates, Device Manager, or by downloading from the manufacturer’s website.
- After updating your driver, restart your computer to make sure the changes work.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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