Almost every user of a personal computer has heard of such a concept as drivers. However, not all of them actually have an idea of what they really are.
Instructions
Step 1
The word "driver" came to Russian from English (driver). A driver is a special program that allows a device to fully function in the operating system. Moreover, this device can be both external and internal. Basically, a driver can be thought of as a link that connects the device to the operating system.
Step 2
Typically, the operating system includes a specific set of drivers. It allows the basic hardware components that are required for the operating system to function. For example, these are drivers for hard drives.
Step 3
But for many devices to work, additional drivers are required. For example, for a printer or video card. As a rule, in this case, the drivers are supplied with the device and are located on a special CD. To install such a driver, you need to insert the disc into the computer drive, wait for it to load, and then select the "Install" item. A computer restart is usually required for the changes to take effect.
Step 4
The drivers available on the CD are not always suitable for the operation of the device in the operating system. This may be due to a developer error, an outdated device version, or an operating system. In this case, you need to search for the driver on the device manufacturer's website. As a rule, you can download the necessary installation files in the directory with device models or in the technical support section.
Step 5
Drivers fall into two categories by their type: user-level and kernel-level. The former provide an interface between the kernel-level drivers and the application. These include, for example, printer drivers. The work of the latter is carried out at the kernel level. In fact, they have almost unlimited possibilities. These include, for example, file system drivers.
