How to quickly update all drivers on a laptop. Updating third-party Windows programs

Drivers are special configuration files that allow various devices connected to a PC to operate. Many people know that they need to be updated periodically. Therefore, it is important to know how to do it correctly.

When is “Hour X”?

First of all, you should remember a certain “golden rule”: you never need to touch something that already works.

If certain elements of computer equipment (web camera, keyboard, mouse, speakers, etc.) are not functioning correctly, you should think about

Usually there is no need to guess whether you need to install new software or not yet. For example, if problems arise with a sound or video card, various games and programs begin to display corresponding messages (that a certain necessary file was not found).

Will the device perform better?

You should not think that immediately after you install the necessary files, the equipment will begin to function several times better and faster. A driver is just a special program that is not able to change the technical characteristics of the device. The existing restrictions will still remain, but productivity may increase by about 15-20%.

Basic instructions

Let's move on to the most important thing. So, how First, we will need to download the necessary files. It is best to look for them on the official websites of equipment manufacturers - this way you are guaranteed not to catch any viruses, and the devices will work 100% correctly.

In addition, the necessary software can be recorded on a CD supplied with the equipment itself.

Have you already found the files you need? Then it's time to find out

1. First, go to the control panel and look for an item called “Device Manager”.
2. We choose the equipment that we need. We bring it to the corresponding icon and click on the right button.
3. Select “Properties ->> Driver” and click on the “Update” button.
4. Two options will appear on the screen. Windows will offer to automatically search for suitable software on the network or find the necessary files on your computer. The second option suits us.
5. The next step in solving the problem of how to update drivers is to write the path to the folder in which you saved them and wait until they are completely installed.
6. If you wish, you can not download anything in advance, but immediately select the option to automatically search for software on the Internet - in this case, the system itself will find, check and install the necessary files.

Now you know how to update drivers using standard Windows tools. But there is another way...

Specialized programs

This is, so to speak, an option “for the lazy”. Its essence is how to update drivers for other versions of the popular OS using special programs. However, you need to take into account that not all of them work correctly.

Utilities such as: are popular among users, have a simple and intuitive interface, are lightweight and perform their functions well:

• Carambis Driver Updater;
• SlimDrivers;
• DriverMax;
• 3DP Chip.

Using them, you can update the drivers for your Windows 7 video card or any other equipment on any OS version.

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Instructions

The Windows operating system is not reliable enough from a security point of view; new vulnerabilities are discovered in it almost every week. As soon as information about a vulnerability becomes known to the hacker community, the number of computers infected with viruses or hacked begins to grow very quickly - until Microsoft employees release an update that closes the discovered flaw. That is why it is important to configure the operating system to automatically update - in this case, vulnerabilities will be eliminated most quickly.

To enable automatic updates in OS Windows XP, open: “Start – Control Panel – Automatic Updates”. In the window that opens, select the “Automatic” option.

If you are using the Windows 7 operating system, open: “Start – Control Panel – Windows Update.” Select “Settings” from the menu on the left and set the necessary options.

Remember that automatic updates are guaranteed to work without problems only on a licensed version of Windows. If you are using a pirated version, attempting to update the system may result in the update failing and a message appearing on your desktop stating that you have an unlicensed version of the operating system installed.

If you have to use a pirated version of Windows 7, update the system manually. Review the list of updates prepared for installation - if it contains update KB971033, cancel the installation of this file. It is he who checks the operating system license key. Install all other update files and replace, as soon as possible, your OS with a licensed version, this will save you from a lot of problems and hassle.

You can update Windows using separately downloaded update packages; they can be found on the Internet. Such packages can be installed automatically or manually. Be careful not to download update packages from unverified sites - very often such packages contain Trojan programs.

If you have an older version of the OS - for example, Windows XP SP2, update it by installing the Windows XP SP3 operating system over the old one. The process of such an update is very simple: turn on the computer, wait for the operating system to load. Insert the installation disk into the drive and select Windows installation from the menu. In the window that appears, select the “Update (recommended)” option. During the installation process you will be required to enter the installation key. When installed in update mode, all your programs and system settings will be saved.

As part of its work to introduce Windows into the mobile device market, Microsoft once created the Windows Store - a single source of content for the operating system, where users can comprehensively install all the software products they need. Today, the Windows Store is the place to install minimalist apps, games, and extensions for the Microsoft Edge browser. But only. Microsoft's ambitious plans to transform the Windows Store into a single web market with a huge assortment, where users could also get acquainted with desktop programs (just get acquainted and download via a link from the developer's website), alas, have so far remained a project, not put into practice. So far, the Store is not a viewing platform for software that works with the desktop environment of the system, and it is still scattered throughout the Internet - on the websites of development companies, software portals, torrent trackers, etc. All these resources have to be accessed not only once to download program installers, but also periodically to update them, if this process is not automatically provided by the developers. Below we will talk about updating third-party Windows programs - how often they need to be updated, how to do it manually and using special tools.

1. Why and how often do you need to update third-party software?

Updating third-party software is less useful than updating Windows itself, but in some cases this process can have a significant impact on the performance of programs or their individual functions. And some old programs that are no longer supported by developers may not even be installed in modern versions of Windows, since by default they do not provide for the activity of the software platforms necessary for their operation. For example, as is the case with . In program updates, developers correct errors, eliminate conflicts with hardware, adapt to changes in the operating system and software environments on which these programs operate, and add new features.

How often should third-party software be updated? Versions of programs and games are often represented by a sequence of numbers like “xx.xx”, for example, Counter-Strike 1.6. Programs and games may have intermediate versions that have a sequence of numbers like “xx.xx.xx”, for example, CCleaner v5.24.5841. Interim versions, as a rule, do not contain any significant changes, except for minor fixes that are unlikely to be noticed by a wide audience of users. If the program or game works fine, you don't have to waste time updating to each intermediate version. The only exceptions may be programs such as antiviruses, password managers, clients of banking and payment systems, etc.

The creators try to turn radical updates of large software packages into a significant event in order to attract the attention of the masses. Such software packages may have readable and memorable version numbers, for example, Corel VideoStudio Ultimate X10, or contain the year of release in the name, for example, Acronis True Image 2017. This kind of software must be dealt with separately, since it may turn out that a new version is necessary purchasing a new license key.

2. Manually updating third-party software

Software that does not provide automatic updates may simply offer a function to check for new versions. In programs with a classic interface, this is usually the last section of the Help menu. If this is not even possible, in the same help section of the menu you can find the address of the program’s official website, visit it and check if a new version has appeared.

3. Updating third-party software using special programs

To simplify the procedure for tracking and installing updates, users who want to have only the latest software on their computer can use special programs. Such programs usually scan the system, identify the software installed on it and, if there are recent versions, offer to download them and install them on the system. And some programs even examine non-system drives to look for updates for portable software. The delivery system for a fresh distribution is designed differently for different programs for updating third-party software. Some can download a distribution of the latest versions of the software directly from the official websites of the developers, and some update the software using a single database on the Internet (usually a database of large-scale software portals). The latter usually offer the user a larger list of support for updated software, but, alas, even they are not a panacea, because there are a lot of programs and games for Windows.

Let's look at three programs for updating third-party Windows software below.

3.1. Kaspersky Software Updater

The free utility Kaspersky Software Updater from the eminent creator of anti-virus products - Kaspersky Lab - was created with the aim of promoting paid software, but in the good old traditions of delivering high-quality software products, regardless of the terms of their payment. The utility is created on the principle of “Take it and use it”, it has a convenient interface and clear controls. Quality often makes friends with minimalism, so the creators of the utility found it necessary to limit themselves to only a hundred supported programs from those in demand by a wide audience. Immediately after installing Kaspersky Software Updater, we can start searching for updates to the software available on the system.

Based on the scan results, the utility window will display a list of programs for which new versions are available. And we can immediately start the update process for each of the detected programs by clicking the “Update” button. The update process will be carried out automatically.

Other features of Kaspersky Software Updater include batch updating of all detected programs in one click, adding individual programs to the list of exceptions (they will no longer participate in scanning), selecting a search mode for updates (all in a row or only essential ones), and automatically starting scanning according to a configured schedule. Kaspersky Software Updater is added to startup and in the background monitors the appearance of new versions of the software available in the system.

3.2. FileHippo App Manager

FileHippo App Manager is a program that works in conjunction with a single database of software installers; it is the client software of the FileHippo.Com soft portal. The program is free to use. The scanning period to detect new versions of the software available in the system is configured immediately when installing FileHippo App Manager. The program loads along with Windows, works in the background and notifies you of the availability of updates to the software available in the system with a message from the system tray.

Based on the results of scanning the system, in the FileHippo App Manager window we will see a list of programs for which new versions have been detected. Using the “Download & Run” button you can download new versions and start installing them on the system.

FileHippo App Manager stores downloaded distributions of new versions of software in a special folder. If necessary, its path, which is set by default on the C:\ drive, can be changed so that the distributions are stored, for example, on one of the non-system partitions.

3.3. SoftSalad Monitor

SoftSalad Monitor is a client program of the Softsalad.Ru soft portal. Other client programs also work with it, but SoftSalad Monitor has the advantage of being free to use. However, during the installation process of the program, it is necessary to carefully monitor it so that companion programs are not installed on the system along with it.

Like other programs for automatic software updates, SoftSalad Monitor is added to startup during installation and performs its work in the background. After installing the program, a system scan will automatically start to search for new versions of the software available in the system. In the scan results, next to each of the programs in the list, possible actions will be available - download a new version, ignore for the future, and go to the Softsalad.Ru page with a description of the program. Downloading new versions is possible in batch mode.

The process of installing new software versions is launched directly from the SoftSalad Monitor interface.

If necessary, in the program settings you can change the preset storage path of the downloaded distribution.

Of the three reviewed, this is the most functional solution. SoftSalad Monitor scans the system to look for outdated versions of not only installed programs, but also portable programs. SoftSalad Monitor is also a directory for downloading and installing new software. In the “Popular” tab we will find several thematic selections of the most popular software. And to search for specific programs, you can use the internal search engine SoftSalad Monitor.

Have a great day!

Our computers and laptops have programs from third-party developers installed, and new versions are released periodically. Many programs themselves check for updates on their official resources and offer to update. But not everyone does this, and sometimes even the smart ones for some reason “forget” to warn.

Program for automatic software updates

For such cases, there is a special program for automatically searching for the latest updates for programs known to it (more than 150 and growing).

Everything works very simply: the programs installed on Windows 7/8/10 are read and checked against their own database. Then FullUpdate checks the latest versions on official websites and divides programs into two groups:

Nothing new found, just shows the current version

Updates: those programs for which there is an update

To update all installed applications, click the “Install” button. By default, all applications are selected. If you need to update only one program, then click off the rest with the mouse, leaving only that one. Or you can go to the official websites and download the installer yourself, if it makes you feel better.

The update process is as follows: the utility downloads the distribution package and launches the installation wizard in the same way as if you had done it yourself. That is, no invisible settings. In general, watch the video:

Library for installing new programs

FullUpdate can also install any of those programs that it can check for updates. Just select any one from the Library tab. Today there are more than 150 of them.

If you click on the gear, you can enable checking for beta versions and updates for paid programs that you have installed. Beta - this means a version with new functions, but not yet fully debugged, but it works

To maintain normal operation of your computer, you need to update drivers from time to time, but searching for and installing them manually is tedious and time-consuming. And why? After all, this work is easy to automate. Today we will look at the ten best programs for updating drivers on PCs and laptops of any brands and models.

Intel Driver Update Utility Installer is a proprietary utility for searching and updating drivers for any Intel product (processors, system logic, network devices, drives, server components, etc.). Compatible with Windows XP, 7, and newer editions of this system.

The utility automatically recognizes the PC hardware on which it is installed. Checking for new driver versions on the Intel website is carried out by clicking the “Search” button, downloading and installing at the user’s request.

In addition, the Intel Driver Update Utility Installer allows you to find and download drivers for any other Intel devices you choose from the list (“Search manually” option).

The developers warn that the application installs only standard drivers that do not take into account the characteristics of a particular brand of computer. Therefore, before you launch it, you should visit the website of the manufacturer of your PC or laptop and check if there is anything suitable there.

AMD Driver Autodetect

AMD Driver Autodetect is a similar proprietary tool from AMD. Designed to keep drivers for video cards of this brand up to date (except AMD FirePro).

After installation, the utility will monitor the relevance of video drivers and ensure they are updated in a timely manner. It automatically detects the model of the video card installed on the PC, as well as the bit depth and version of the operating system. Once launched, it checks to see if there is a new driver on the AMD website. If there is one, it reports it and offers to download it. To begin the installation, the user just needs to confirm his consent by clicking on the “Install” button.

AMD Driver Autodetect is also available exclusively in Windows version.

NVIDIA Update

NVIDIA Update is a proprietary Windows utility for installing drivers on NVIDIA devices. Like AMD Driver Autodetect, it independently recognizes hardware models and checks for the availability of the latest driver on the manufacturer's website. The decision about installation remains with the user.

DriverPack Solution

DriverPack Solution is a lifesaver for service engineers, system administrators and those who earn extra money by providing installation services for Windows and programs. The application is a huge collection of drivers for devices of various brands and models, as well as a module for installing them.

DriverPack Solution is released in two versions - online and offline.

• The online distribution is intended for use on a PC that has an Internet connection. Its difference is its small file size (285 Kb). After launch, the program scans Windows for installed drivers and the relevance of their versions, after which it connects to the database (on its own server) and performs automatic updates.
• The offline distribution (size 10.2 Gb) is intended for installing drivers on a machine not connected to the Internet. In addition to the installer, it includes a database of 960,000 drivers for Windows 7, XP, Vista, 8 (8.1) and 10, both 32 bit and 64 bit. After launch, the scanning module recognizes device types and installs drivers from its own offline database.

The online version of DriverPack Solution is convenient for regular home use. In addition to monitoring the relevance of drivers, it gives the user the opportunity to automatically install and update individual applications, remove software junk, view a list of equipment, information about the operating system and computer security.

The offline version is an emergency solution. Its task is to select not the best, but simply the appropriate driver to start the device. And in the future update it via the Internet.

DriverPack Solution and the proprietary utilities listed above are completely free.

Driver Genius

Driver Genius is a universal driver management tool. The latest edition of the program is the sixteenth, optimized for Windows 8 and 10, but can also run on older systems.

In addition to updating the versions of installed drivers, Driver Genius can:

• Create backup copies of drivers and save them in the form of archives - regular and self-extracting, as well as in the form of an installer program (exe). To restore from a backup, you do not need to use Driver Genius.
• Remove unused and faulty drivers.
• Display information about computer hardware.

The backup function is a real treasure for those who often reinstall Windows. However, the program itself is not a gift: the cost of one license is $29.95. You can use it for free for only 30 days.

Snappy Driver Installer

Snappy Driver Installer is an application created by one of the developers of DriverPack Solution and has a lot in common with the latter. Also available in two versions: SDI Lite and SDI Full.

• The SDI Lite option is a module for recognizing devices and searching for suitable drivers on the Internet. Its size is 3.6 Mb. It does not have its own base.
• The SDI Full option is an installation module plus a base (31.6 Gb). Designed to install drivers regardless of Internet access.

Features of Snappy Driver Installer:

• Works without installation (portable version only, can be run from a flash drive or DVD).
• Completely free - no premium features or ads.
• With an improved selection algorithm, which is based on the “do no harm” principle.
• Features high scanning speed.
• Before installing the driver, it creates a system restore point.
• Allows you to change design themes according to the user's choice.
• Multilingual (there is a version in Russian, Ukrainian and other national languages).
• Adapted for Windows 10.

Driver Booster

iObit Driver Booster is an application loved by fans of computer games. It is produced in editions Free - free, and Pro - paid. The cost of subscription to the latter is 590 rubles per year.

Driver Booster has one single function - scanning the system for outdated drivers and installing updates in one click. And not simple updates, but (according to the developers) tuned to improve the performance of games.

is a free and very simple utility for installing and updating PC drivers based on Windows 7, 8 and 10. Its database includes only original, signed drivers from the official websites of equipment manufacturers.

The application is designed for users with no experience. Russian language support, a minimum of settings and one-button control virtually eliminate the possibility of something being confused or broken. And if the new driver turns out to be unsuitable, DriverHub will remove it from the system and replace the old one.

All DriverHub features:

• Search for missing ones, update outdated drivers and additional software. Automatic installation.
• Simple and expert operating mode. In expert mode, the user can select a driver from several available ones; in simple mode, the program itself selects the optimal version.
• Daily update of the driver database.
• Storing download history.
• Restore - rollback drivers to previous versions.
• Displays basic information about your computer.
• Launch Windows system utilities from its interface.

DriverMax Free

DriverMax is a free, simple, English-language utility whose main purpose is to update drivers. Unlike other free applications, it has another useful option - creating a system rollback point and a backup of installed drivers of the user's choice. As well as restoring from a backup.

After installation, DriverMax persistently reminds you that it would be a good idea to register on the site and buy a paid license with advanced functions, one of which is fully automatic operation. Annual use starts at $10.39.

Driver Magician

Driver Magician is the last hero of today's review. In the recent past, I had 2 versions, one of which was free. Today there is only a paid one left with a 13-day trial period. The license cost is $29.95.

There is no Russian language in Driver Magician, but it is not difficult to use. The range of features is approximately the same as in Driver Genius:

• Scan and update.
• Creating backup copies of drivers with the ability to restore both using and without using the program (the backup is saved as a zip archive or an installer application).
• Uninstalling the driver.
• Backup and restore of individual user folders - Internet Explorer Favorites, Desktop and Documents, as well as the system registry (in one file).
• Identification of devices unknown to the system.

During the trial period, the program is fully functional. Compatible with any version of Windows.

That's probably all. Choose what you like best and use it.