If you are a Windows user, there’s a good chance that your computer gets 5 to 10% slower every 6 months. This is not due to the manufacturer’s fault, but simply because you failed to update the driver.
Source: Quora
In a bit, we will be diving deep into the mystery behind the short lives of many computers. More importantly, you’ll discover a new hack that ensures that your PC performs better for longer.
Do Computers Really Slow Down on Their Own?
Yes, they do! You’ve probably seen the signs, but like many other users, you don’t believe it because it’s too bad to be true. Your inability to notice could also be linked to the fact that the depreciation in speed is gradual.
Source: Quora
Many only notice when it’s about 2 years down the line. At this point, the crashes, strange errors, and freezes are already in your face and too noticeable to ignore.
The Statistics Are Also Difficult to Ignore
Equally as alarming as the potential condition of your computer is the statistics behind it. If there’s any organization worth listening to on this matter, it’s Microsoft, and they’ve got some not-too-palatable news for us.
Source: Quora
They’ve revealed that over 75% of those annoying computer freezes and crashes can be traced to stale drivers. In fact, only 1 in 20 computer users update their drivers regularly, findings have shown.
Many Computers Are Dying Slowly
Most users are unaware that their computers are taking slow but steady steps towards their demise. Computers slowing down at 5 to 10% every 6 months will become 10 to 20% slower after one year of use.
Source: Quora
This translates to 40% slower computers after 5 years not to mention disgruntled users. Sadly, many owners discard their devices at this point.
But…What Are Drivers?
A hardware driver is a set of files that govern and direct the activities of a piece of hardware. The driver tells the hardware what to do by communicating with a computer’s operating system.
Source: Quora
Your new computer comes with a pre-installed driver which is the latest version available. Afterward, it’s your job to keep them updated.
Outdated Drivers Are a Load of Trouble
When you fail to update your driver, you lose out on optimum performance. Not just that, outdated drivers are easier prey for hackers because they become more vulnerable to cyber attacks even under the nose of the most sophisticated antivirus.
Source: Quora
Junks and viruses that penetrate computers through the cracks of obsolete drivers aren’t always conspicuous. They work silently and may just focus on slowing down your system.
Drivers Can Also Get Damaged
A damaged driver means your computer will lack information on how to manage its graphics card and other hardware. This challenge also affects external peripherals such as printers.
Source: Quora
Even though your PC will find a way around it, it will only be able to utilize a tenth of the hardware’s potential. You’ll also encounter numerous difficulties, including the mouse’s failure to connect to your computer.
How to Solve the Problem
Of course, we can’t run away from updating these drivers. There’s no other way around it. Plus, there are two ways to get this done.
Source: Quora
First, you can observe and update your drivers manually. However, this process could become cumbersome in the long run. Alternatively, you may entrust this task to special driver update programs that will do the job without your input or presence.
Manual Updates Require More Care
Updating your drivers manually could be more tasking and draining than you expect. That’s because you have to find amongst the 35 million drivers available on the internet, the ones that are compatible with your device.
Source: Quora
This means identifying the most recent drivers from your device’s manufacturers. Not only that, you have to keep checking for driver updates on their website.
Avoid Incompatible Drivers
It is necessary to emphasize the damage you can do to your computer by using drivers that don’t match it. Over 1,300 companies produce drivers, so you must be extra careful with sorting out the right ones.
Source: Quora
Using a driver that’s not meant for your device will cause regrettable damage to your hardware, system instability, and loss of functionality.
Premature Installation is Also a Problem
Another risk you will encounter when installing or updating your drivers manually is premature installation. Bringing your drivers up to date before it’s time to do so could also lead to problems.
Source: Quora
Therefore, it’s best to depend on the software that can save you from all this brain-racking and stress. Simply sign up to use a special driver update program.
What Are the Benefits of Update Programs?
First, the driver update program helps you scan through your computer periodically to identify out-of-date, damaged, or missing drivers. It will then proceed to update your outdated drivers, replace missing ones, and remove damaged ones.
Source: Quora
Examples of these update programs include Driver Booster, Bit Driver Updater, AppEsteem, and DriverMax. With these, you can kiss a final goodbye to the slow computer experience.
