Update Network Drivers in Windows 10 [2024 Fresh Guide]

Key Takeaways of Update Network Drivers in Windows 10:

Outdated network drivers can cause various issues/errors that can negatively affect your computer's network performance and connectivity, including slow internet speed, connectivity issues, security risks, compatibility problems, and poor overall performance. 

You may be unable to connect Wifi with your PC/Laptop. So, updating your network drivers to enjoy smooth network connectivity is essential. The article provides a step-by-step guide to help users update their network drivers in Windows 10.

🎯Goal:	Update Network driver in Windows 10, increasing internet speed.
💻Supported OS:	Windows 10, Windows 11, and older Windows operating systems.
⏳Duration:	5-10 minutes
🧰Tools:	1️⃣EaseUS DriverHandy;2️⃣Device Manager; 3️⃣Windows Update; 4️⃣Manufacturers' Websites

Introduction

Get ready to supercharge your network connectivity! Network drivers are like the communication superheroes of your computer, ensuring a seamless connection with network devices such as routers, modems, and network interface cards. They keep the flow of information moving smoothly and quickly, providing you with high-speed internet access.

But wait, there's a catch! These drivers, which are automatically installed during the initial Windows 10 setup process, can become outdated over time, causing various network issues such as slow internet speed, connectivity problems, and even security risks.

Don't worry, though! In this article, we're going to show you how to become the network driver superhero and update your drivers to ensure a smooth and fast network connection. We'll cover the importance of keeping your drivers up-to-date, the consequences of using outdated drivers, and provide you with an easy-to-follow step-by-step guide to updating your drivers.

So, get ready to say goodbye to network issues and hello to speedy internet!

How to Update Network Drivers in Windows 10?

Now it's time to learn how to update network drivers on your own in Windows 10, whether PC or laptop. Here we share some useful tips and four easy ways with complete instructional steps to make the procedure easier and more comfortable for you.

Method 1. EaseUS DriverHandy

Updating network drivers in Windows can be a tricky process for you if you don't have technical knowledge or experience but don't worry. EaseUS DriverHandy made it easier than ever. If you want to save time and energy finding and installing the correct network drivers for your Windows 10 PC automatically, EaseUS DriverHandy is a reliable and efficient solution that can take care of the whole process for you.

This tool is designed to automate the tedious task of driver updates, making it easier than ever to keep your computer running smoothly. With its powerful system, you can rest assured that you'll receive the most up-to-date and appropriate drivers for all your components and devices.

So if you want to streamline your PC maintenance and ensure that your network drivers are always up-to-date, try EaseUS DriverHandy. Your computer will thank you for it!

Let's start updating network drivers in Windows 10 through EaseUS DriverHandy:

Step 1. Launch EaseUS DriverHandy and click the "Scan" button.

Step 2. Choose the drivers and click "Install All" in the upper right corner to update all drivers. Or you can select the single Motherboard, Sound, or Graphisc drivers and click "Update" on the right side.

Aside from updating network drivers in Windows 10, this software can also ensure you update network drivers on other operating systems, such as to:

Method 2. Device Manager

You can also update the network drivers and several other components using Device Manager.

Here's a step-by-step guide to updating your device driver using Device Manager:

Step 1. Open "Device Manager". Just type it in the search bar from the taskbar.

Step 2. Expand "Network adapters" by clicking on (>) equal to sign.

Step 3. From the expanded list, right-click on the desired network drivers.

Step 4. Click "Update driver".

Step 5. Choose any option from two (Search automatically for drivers) or (Browse my computer for drivers).

Note: If you choose the first option (Search automatically for drivers), it'll automatically search over the internet and update drivers. But due to any reason, if the first option doesn't work, then you have to choose the second option (Browse my computer for drivers), but remember that before choosing the second option, you need to first download the relevant drivers from the manufacturer's website as this second method is manual, so you need to do all things manually if you're choosing this option.

Method 3. Windows Update

The Windows update feature may take some time for the latest driver updates to appear. If you don't find any update in the Windows update feature, it is recommended to download and install desired drivers manually. Because sometimes this feature doesn't display or provide any new driver update.

Please follow the instructional steps:

Step 1. Open Settings on your Windows 10 PC.

Step 2. Click "Update & Security."

Step 3. Click on "Windows Update."

Step 4. Click "View optional updates."

Step 5. Click "Driver updates."

Step 6. If any new updates are available, checkmark them.

Step 7. Finally, click on "Download and install" in the left corner.

Method 4. Manufacturers' Websites

To download and install the latest driver for your network adapter, you can visit the official support website of the hardware manufacturer. For example, it's Intel for me, so always remember to visit your relevant manufacturer's website, like Dell, HP, etc. In my case, I'll visit Intel's website.

Here are the steps to install the latest Intel network adapter driver for Windows 10 from the Intel website:

Step 1. Visit the Intel support website.

Step 2. Click on the "Drivers & Software" option.

Step 3. Select "Ethernet Products" when prompted to select your product.

Step 4. Choose the appropriate version of the Intel network adapter driver for your Windows operating system.

Step 5. Click "View Details" and click "Download" to download the driver setup file.

Step 6. After downloading the driver file, double-click on the downloaded file (.exe) and follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest driver.

Step 7. Once the installation process is complete, restart your PC/laptop.

Note: This procedure is about Intel's driver. However, if your manufacturer is different, you should visit your relevant manufacturer's website. You may find different options on other manufacturers' websites, but the rest process is the same for downloading and installing drivers.

What are Network Drivers, and Why Are They Important?

Network drivers are software programs that allow communication between a computer's operating system and network hardware, such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi adapters. They play a crucial role in enabling devices to connect to the internet and other network resources. Without network drivers, your computer's Ethernet cards or other networking devices can't work correctly, and you can't enjoy a smooth internet facility. So, in this regard, updated network drivers improve network performance, and the internet works fast on our PC/Laptop.

So, if you face slow internet speeds or connectivity issues, check if your network drivers are up-to-date. If not, then instantly update your drivers. You'll get immediate benefits from updated network drivers, such as improved network performance and enhanced security compatibility with the latest software.

Benefits of updating network drivers in Windows 10:

• Improved network performance and stability
• Bug fixes, security patches, and performance optimizations
• Compatibility with new network hardware and protocols
• Better support for new features and technologies
• Reduced risk of connectivity problems and network crashes
• Enhanced security and protection against network threats
• Improved overall system performance and responsiveness
• More reliable and faster internet speeds
• Better streaming and online gaming experiences
• Reduced latency and network lag

Extended Reading: Why Do You Need to Update Your Network Drivers?

Now you know very well what allows your computer to connect to the Internet. Network drivers! They're like bridges between your computer's hardware and the operating system. Without network drivers, you couldn't surf the web, stream videos, or check your email. Outdated drivers can cause several issues, such as slowing down your internet connection, also cause your computer to freeze or crash, and even putting your personal information at risk.

On the other hand, updating your drivers can work wonders for your computer's performance, stability, and security. It can improve your internet speed, reduce the likelihood of crashes and system errors, and protect you against potential security threats.

So, if you want to avoid frustration and maximize your computer's potential, make sure to keep those network drivers up-to-date. If you're not sure how to do it, don't worry - look at the above-detailed methods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you've any queries or want to learn more, the FAQs below may be helpful.

1. How do I update my network adapter driver?

There are several methods to update the network driver, such as through Device Manager easily. Go to the Device Manager on your Windows computer, locate the network adapter, right-click it, and select "Update driver." You can then choose to search for updated drivers automatically or browse your computer for the driver software.

2. How do I install a network driver in Windows 10?

To install a network driver in Windows 10, you can use the Device Manager to search for and install the driver software or you can download the driver directly from the manufacturer's website and install it manually. But the manual process maybe a little bit difficult for you and require technical expertise. So, in that case, you can automatically install through EaseUS DriverHandy.

3. Do I need to update my network drivers?

If you face any networking or connectivity problems, you need to update network drivers to fix the issue. Updating your drivers can improve performance and eliminate connectivity issues.

4. Does Windows 10 automatically install network drivers?

Usually, Windows 10 automatically install network drivers. Sometimes you need to install drivers or update existing network drivers manually, if you notice any internet connectivity issues, you must install or update network drivers immediately.

Conclusion

Updating network drivers in Windows 10 is crucial for ensuring smooth and reliable network connectivity. Outdated network drivers can cause various issues, including slow internet speed, connectivity issues, security risks, and poor overall performance. Therefore, it is recommended to check and update network drivers regularly for optimal performance. EaseUS DriverHandy is an excellent tool that can automate the tedious task of driver updates, making it easier than ever to keep your computer running smoothly. With just one click, EaseUS DriverHandy can update all drivers, including network drivers. Say goodbye to the frustration of manually searching for drivers online and give EaseUS DriverHandy a try to streamline your PC maintenance and ensure that your network drivers are always up-to-date.