How to Install Drivers in Safe Mode Windows 10
Installing drivers in Safe Mode on Windows 10 can be a lifesaver when you encounter issues with your system’s performance or compatibility. Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode that loads the minimum set of drivers and services required to start Windows. This mode is particularly useful when you need to install or update drivers without any interference from third-party applications or background services. In this article, we will guide you through the process of installing drivers in Safe Mode on Windows 10.
Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode
Before you can install drivers in Safe Mode, you need to boot your computer into this diagnostic mode. Here’s how to do it:
1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter to open the System Configuration window.
3. Go to the “Boot” tab and click on “Advanced options.”
4. Check the “Safe boot” box and select “Minimal” from the dropdown menu.
5. Click “OK” and then “OK” again to restart your computer.
Your computer will now restart into Safe Mode.
Step 2: Access Device Manager
Once your computer is in Safe Mode, you can access Device Manager to identify the drivers that need to be installed or updated. Here’s how to do it:
1. Press the Windows key + X to open the Quick Access Menu.
2. Select “Device Manager” from the list of options.
The Device Manager window will display a list of devices and their drivers.
Step 3: Install or Update Drivers
Now that you have accessed Device Manager, you can proceed to install or update the drivers for the devices that are causing issues. Here’s how to do it:
1. Expand the category of the device that requires a driver installation or update.
2. Right-click on the device and select “Update driver.”
3. Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software.”
4. Windows will search for the latest driver updates online and install them automatically.
If the automatic search doesn’t find the necessary drivers, you can manually download and install them from the manufacturer’s website.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
After installing or updating the drivers, it’s essential to restart your computer to apply the changes. Here’s how to do it:
1. Click on the Start button and select “Shutdown” or “Restart.”
2. Choose “Restart” to shut down and restart your computer.
Your computer will now restart in normal mode.
Step 5: Verify Driver Installation
Once your computer has restarted, verify that the drivers have been installed correctly. To do this:
1. Open Device Manager again.
2. Check the device that you installed or updated the driver for.
3. If the device is no longer listed under “Unknown devices” or “Problem devices,” it means the driver has been installed successfully.
Congratulations! You have now successfully installed drivers in Safe Mode on Windows 10. This process can help resolve issues with your system’s performance and compatibility, ensuring a smooth and stable experience.
