How to Build Your Own PC - Save A Buck And Learn A Lot  9  Chapter 10: Configuring Windows XP

Activating Windows 1 Driver Installation Example: Monitor Driver

Now that you have an operating system installed, you’ll need to install drivers for your devices such as Video Cards, Network Interface Cards, Sound Cards, etc. In many cases, if Windows recognizes the device, drivers will be installed automatically. In some cases, generic drivers are installed and they will work fine.

Drivers are small software programs that help the operating system use or “drive” the device. Whenever a device doesn’t work properly, ask if the proper driver has been installed.

Notice that when you purchase a PC from a major manufacturer, such as Gateway or Dell, they’ll be sure your system has working drivers installed for all hardware. But, when you build your own system, you might need to find and install drivers to get your hardware working properly. This will actually help you learn more about your PC, and, if things go wrong later, you’ll have a head start in solving PC problems.

Activating Windows 1 Driver Installation Example: Monitor Driver