How to update usb drivers on windows 11 & 10: complete guide

Keeping your computer's USB drivers up to date is essential for ensuring proper communication between your hardware devices and your computer. Whether you're having trouble connecting printers, mice, digital cameras, or other peripheral devices to your Windows system, updating your USB drivers can often resolve these issues.

What is a USB Driver?

A USB driver, short for Universal Serial Bus driver, is a software program that allows your computer to communicate with connected USB devices. USB technology was developed in 1994 as a collaborative effort between companies like Microsoft, Compaq, Intel, IBM, and others. USB drivers enable the connection of various devices, including keyboards, mice, monitors, printers, scanners, storage devices, game controllers, headsets, and speakers.

Updating your USB drivers on Windows is important for several reasons:

• To avoid issues like a non-working mouse, undetected printer, unrecognized camera, or any other problems related to USB devices.
• To resolve USB driver issues and ensure better performance.
• To stay updated with the latest technology and take advantage of the benefits it offers.

Now that we understand the significance of updating USB drivers on Windows, let's explore different methods for updating these drivers.

How to Update USB Drivers on Windows 11 & 10

There are various methods for updating USB drivers, but not all of them are efficient. Here, we will discuss the top three ways to update and download USB drivers on Windows

Method 1: Updating USB Driver using the Best Driver Updater - Smart Driver Care

If you prefer a quick and easy solution, using a reliable driver updating utility like Smart Driver Care is highly recommended. This advanced tool allows you to update USB drivers and other outdated drivers with just a few clicks. Here's how to use Smart Driver Care:

1. Download and install Smart Driver Care from the official website.
2. Launch the program and click on the scan now button to initiate the scanning process.
3. Wait for the scan to complete, and then update the USB driver and any other outdated drivers that are detected.
4. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Note: Smart Driver Care offers both trial and paid versions. The trial version allows you to update drivers individually, while the paid version allows you to update all drivers at once.

Method 2: Updating USB Driver Via Windows Update

Windows Update is another method for updating USB drivers on Windows 11 & Follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
2. Click on update & security.
3. Choose windows update from the left pane and click on check for updates.
4. Wait for Windows to search for available updates for your system and drivers. If there are any updates available, download and install them.

Note: Windows Update relies on manufacturers registering their driver updates with the Windows Update Channel. If a manufacturer does not submit a driver update, it may not be included in the Windows Update.

Method 3: Updating to the Latest USB Driver Via Device Manager

If you know which specific driver is causing issues, you can use the Device Manager to update and install the USB driver. Follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type devmgmt.msc and hit Enter to open the Device Manager.
3. Expand the universal serial bus controller category to view all connected USB devices.
4. Right-click on the problematic device and select update driver.
5. Choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software.
6. Wait for the Device Manager to search for a driver update. If one is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the latest USB driver for Windows.

Note: Updating drivers using the Device Manager can be risky for beginners, as an incorrect driver update or download can render the system non-functional.

How to Install the Latest USB Driver From the Manufacturer's Site

If you have downloaded a USB driver from the manufacturer's website, you can install it manually through the Device Manager. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Device Manager by pressing the Windows key + R, typing devmgmt.msc, and hitting Enter.
2. Follow the same steps as in Method 3 to locate the problematic USB device.
3. Right-click on the device and select update driver.
4. Choose the option to browse my computer for driver software.
5. Navigate to the location where the downloaded driver is saved and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

It is always recommended to have a backup of your drivers and important data before performing any manual driver updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Latest USB Drivers

How do I find my USB drivers?

To find your USB drivers, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + X and select device manager.
2. Expand the universal serial bus controller category.
3. Double-click on the connected USB device.
4. To update the driver, right-click on the device and select update driver.

Why is the USB port not working?

There are several reasons why a USB port may not be working:

1. Issues with the Windows registry.
2. Outdated USB driver.
3. Physical damage to the port.
4. Improper power supply.
5. Broken USB port.

Does updating device drivers make PC faster?

Updating device drivers can improve the performance of your PC. Outdated drivers can cause connectivity issues, display problems, and audio/video-related problems, leading to reduced performance. Keeping drivers updated ensures optimal performance and compatibility with the latest technology.

How do I reinstall USB drivers in Windows 11?

You can reinstall USB drivers in Windows 11 manually or automatically. To reinstall manually, open the Device Manager, locate the Universal Serial Bus controllers category, right-click on the USB device, select uninstall device, and restart your PC. Windows will automatically reinstall the USB driver.

Can I update my drivers for free?

Yes, you can update drivers for free using the Device Manager or by using a free driver updater tool like Smart Driver Care.

How do I fix a USB device not recognized on Windows 11?

To fix a USB device not recognized on Windows 11, try the following steps:

1. Check the USB device for possible damage.
2. Connect the USB device to an alternate port.
3. Replace the USB device if necessary.
4. Restart your Windows 11 system.
5. Update Windows to the latest version.
6. Reinstall the USB driver.
7. Update the USB driver.
8. Check Power Management Settings.
9. Disable USB selective suspend power feature.
10. Run SFC and DISM Scan.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most USB-related issues on Windows 1

Updating your USB drivers on Windows 11 & 10 is crucial for ensuring proper communication between your computer and connected USB devices. Whether you choose to use a driver updating utility like Smart Driver Care or update the drivers manually through Windows Update or Device Manager, keeping your drivers up to date will help resolve connectivity issues and ensure optimal performance. Remember to back up your drivers and important data before performing any driver updates.