3 Ways to Fix Corrupt Drivers in Windows 11/10

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Fix 1: Restore to the Previous Working State

If this happened recently, you could also use System Restore to return to the date when the drivers worked well. The program allows you to scan for affected programs and includes a description of when the restore point was created.

Step 1:Open the Run prompt (Win + R), typerstrui, and pressEnterto open the System Restore Wizard.

Step 2:Choose between aRecommended restoreor the one you feel is correct if you have multiple restore points.

Step 3:ClickNextand follow the process to restore your PC to the state where the drivers worked. Your PC will restart once, so ensure all your work is saved.

Fix 2: Uninstall the Device and Install the Driver

Step 1:Press the Windows key, search forDevice Manager, and open when it appears in the list.

Step 2:Locate the device with ayellow questionmark. These marks show errors with a device.

Step 3:Right-click on it, selectUninstall device, and check the box forAttempt to remove the driver from this device.

Step 4:In the Device Manager,right-clickon the PC name and click onScan for hardware changesso the device reappears in the list.

Finally, download the OEM driver for the device and install it. It will also remove the yellow exclamation mark next to the device.

While it should work, follow the troubleshooting guide if theOEM driver installation fails.

Fix 3: Install Driver via Optional Windows Updates

Windows allows users to download drivers that are delivered as optional updates. These updates must be manually installed and, based on hardware configuration and stability tests, usually take longer to arrive on the PC.

Step 1:Ensure to remove the driver using the Device Manager.

Step 2:OpenSettings(Win + I) and navigate toWindows Update>Advanced Options.

Step 2:ClickOptional updatesto reveal the list of driver updates available for your PC.

Step 3:Select the driver(s) you want to install and click theDownload & installbutton at the bottom to start downloading. Your PC may restart during the process.

If the download doesn’t work, followthis guide to fix the issue.

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Last updated on 29 April, 2024

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