Most PC and laptop owners know they need to periodically update their operating system software, security programs and so on. However, fewer computer users know how to update their device drivers—or even why drivers are so valuable.
In plain terms, a driver is software that enables the vital communication between your PC’s operating system and each internal or external device—from graphics cards and DVD drives to microphones, webcams and printers. Driver updates can address compatibility problems and bugs, but an older driver does not automatically stop a device from working.
Windows installs many recommended drivers automatically. Check optional driver updates or Lenovo’s model-specific support page when troubleshooting a device or applying a recommended fix. Before choosing a package, identify your Lenovo model and machine type.
Legacy instructions for Windows 7 and Windows 8: These operating systems are out of support. To check for any updates still offered, open Control Panel and navigate to System and Security > Windows Update > Check for updates. View and install applicable updates. A restart may be required, so be sure to save all work and close any open applications before you begin. Updating drivers does not restore Windows support.
How to update Windows 11 drivers
Open Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates. Select any driver updates you need, choose Download and install, and restart after installation. Optional drivers are not installed automatically.
How to update Windows 10 drivers (legacy instructions)
Windows 10 version 22H2 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Eligible devices enrolled in Extended Security Updates (ESU) can receive limited security updates; LTSC editions have separate lifecycles.
On Windows 10, a device driver is an essential piece of code that allows the system to detect and interact with specific hardware (such as graphics card, hard drive, network adapter, etc.), as well as peripherals, including mice, keyboards, printers, monitors, and many others.
Typically, Windows 10 detects and installs drivers automatically using the driver library built into the system and Windows Update. However, sometimes, you may need to update a device manually for many reasons. For instance, when a particular component isn’t getting recognized, stops working after an upgrade, Windows Update installs a generic package, or you need to access a new feature or apply a bug fix.
- Open Settings.
- Click on Update & Security.
- Click on Windows Update.
-
Click the Check for updates button.
If View optional updates appears, open it, select the driver updates you need, and choose Download and install. Restart after installation.
If no updates appear, Windows Update has no further updates to offer at that time. This does not establish that every application or driver is current. If a device still has problems, check Lenovo’s support page for your exact model and Windows version.
You may also consider selecting “Advanced options.” In this window, you can choose how upgrades are installed, whether or not to defer automatic updates, and how your updates are delivered. If you don’t have specific preferences, it is recommended that you leave them in their default state.
How to update graphics drivers
Graphics drivers can be updated through Windows Update. For a Lenovo PC, also check Lenovo Vantage or Lenovo’s support page for your model. As Intel explains, PC manufacturers can customize graphics drivers for their systems. If you use a driver directly from NVIDIA, AMD or Intel, check that it supports your GPU, Windows version and system.
To determine the make and model of your graphics card, go to the Start menu and search for “device manager.” When a shortcut for the Device Manager appears within the search results, click on it. In Windows 10 and Windows 11, you can also right-click Start and select Device Manager.
Once you are inside the Device Manager interface, you should see your computer’s various devices listed. These may include battery (if using a laptop), computer, disc drive, display adapters, DVD/CD-ROM drive, keyboard, and more. The option you are looking for is “display adapters.”
Expand Display adapters to show your graphics card or cards. Right-click the card and select Update driver. In the update window, choose the automatic driver search, or choose Browse my computer for drivers to select a compatible driver you have already downloaded. If Windows cannot find an update, check Lenovo’s support page for your exact model or the graphics manufacturer’s official support site.
Common device manufacturers include:
NVIDIA
AMD
Intel
Download any applicable updates and install them to complete the update process. In some cases, the manufacturer’s site will offer an option to automatically detect and install the latest driver.