PC Curb

For those that have previous experience with installing operating systems, the installation of Windows 7 will be quite a relief once it comes to setting everything up. As well as a simpler installation process with less options to continually enter throughout the install, it is quicker and includes an improved ability to scan current hardware and install drivers automatically. This does not work for all hardware so there are a few steps you can follow to resolve issues with hardware that doesn’t work automatically.

If you have booted into Windows 7 and some components aren’t functioning, or you have just updated drivers and they have caused the device to stop working; go to Start > Computer > Hardware and Sound >  Device Manager (under Devices and Printers) > then click on the responding category to the failing device.  For example, if you are having trouble connecting to the internet you would click Network Adapters and right click the NIC (network interface card). Once there click on the Driver tab, then the Update Driver button. If Windows fails to find an update the next step is getting a driver from a 3rd party. Alternatively, if you have just installed a new driver (and your device has stopped working) and this button is not available, click Roll Back Driver to reset to a driver that may work with your device.

Locating a driver from a 3rd party tends to involve finding the name of the manufacture for the product and visiting their website to download needed drivers. They will also require the type/model number of your device as well as operating system (Windows 7). If the computer in question is searching for NIC-related drivers or doesn’t have access to the internet you will have to visit a friend’s house or internet cafe with a USB/storage device to transfer it to your computer. After this is downloaded (make sure it is x64 if your system is 64 bit or  x86 if install was 32 bit), run the setup exe. and it should be an automated install. If the folder you downloaded does not contain a setup exe. you have likely downloaded the wrong file (or they have stopped hosting it).

I will also add that if you have an older device and are trying really hard to find a working driver, the sad thing is manufacturers tend to stop hosting drivers after a while and it will be in your best interests to just buy a new device.