Article ID: 319908 - Last Review: January 30, 2012 - Revision: 10.0

Information about hardware device drivers for Windows XP

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To continue receiving security updates for Windows, make sure you're running Windows XP with Service Pack 3 (SP3). For more information, refer to this Microsoft web page: Support is ending for some versions of Windows (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/help/end-support-windows-xp-sp2-windows-vista-without-service-packs)

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SUMMARY

Introduction

If you recently upgraded to Windows XP, and a hardware device is not functioning correctly, or if your computer does not recognize a hardware device, the problem may be related to a device driver.

What is a device driver?

A device driver is software that controls computer hardware. Downloading and installing the latest device drivers frequently resolves hardware problems.
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MORE INFORMATION

Here are some resources about how to use hardware and how to install device drivers in Windows XP.
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Microsoft Update

A great place to visit is the Microsoft Update Web site:
http://update.microsoft.com (http://update.microsoft.com)
Click Custom, and then click Hardware, Optional.

Note The Microsoft Update Web site scans your computer to determine what you have installed. It may prompt you to download software to your computer to make this process easier. If you are concerned about your privacy, read the Microsoft Update privacy statement that is available on the Microsoft Update Web site.

Microsoft Update automatically checks your computer and offers updates for your hardware. To turn on Automatic Updates, follow these steps:
  1. Click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Security Center.
  2. Click Automatic Updates.
  3. In the Automatic Updates dialog box, click Automatic (recommended), and then click OK.
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Contact the hardware manufacturer

Check the hardware manufacturer's Web site for updated drivers. Manufacturers frequently provide drivers that have not yet passed the "Designed for Windows XP" compatibility testing. Many manufacturers will even post beta drivers for public download. This can be a source for a driver if you are desperate, but remember that there is a reason they are still beta drivers--they have not been fully tested and can cause problems.
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List of third-party Web sites

If your hardware is made by one of the following manufacturers, you may be able to find a driver on the manufacturer's Web site. Microsoft provides third-party contact information to help you find technical support. This contact information may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this third-party contact information.
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APPLIES TO
  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional
  • Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
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Keywords: 
kbresolve kbdriver kbenv kbprb KB319908
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