How do you update and install network card drivers safely and efficiently?

2 Check for driver updates

The next step is to check if there are any driver updates available for your network card. You can do this by either using Windows Update or visiting the manufacturer's website. Windows Update is a feature that automatically downloads and installs updates for your system and devices - to use it, type 'Windows Update' in the search box of the Start menu, open it, and click 'Check for updates'. If there are any updates for your network card, they will be listed under the Optional updates section; select the desired ones and click 'Download and install'. Alternatively, you can visit the manufacturer's website, look for the latest driver for your network card model and operating system (using the information you noted down from the Device Manager) and download it. To install the driver from the website, run the downloaded file and follow the instructions on screen.

3 Install a new network card

In order to install a new network card, it is essential to make sure that it is compatible with your computer and operating system. Before beginning the installation process, you will need to prepare your computer by disabling or uninstalling the old network card driver. To do this, go to the Device Manager and right-click on the old network card, then select Disable device or Uninstall device from the menu. After restarting and powering down your computer, unplug the power cord and open the case of your computer. Locate the old network card and remove it from the slot, then insert the new network card into an empty slot and secure it with a screw or clip. Close up the case, plug in the power cord, turn on your computer, and wait for Windows to detect the new network card.

4 Install the driver for the new network card

After you install the new network card, you need to install the driver for it. You can use either Windows Update or the manufacturer's website, as explained in the previous section. However, some network cards may come with a CD or a USB drive that contains the driver. In that case, you can insert the CD or USB drive into your computer and wait for it to run automatically. If it does not run automatically, open the File Explorer and locate the CD or USB drive, then double-click on the setup file and follow the instructions on the screen to install the driver.

5 Test your network connection

To test your network connection and make sure that everything is working properly, use the Network and Sharing Center. This tool shows your network status and settings. To access it, first click on the Start menu and type Network and Sharing Center in the search box. Open the Network and Sharing Center, then click on Change adapter settings. Right-click on the network card you want to test and select Diagnose. Windows will scan and fix any problems with your network card. If it is working properly, you will see a message saying so. If there are any issues, a Troubleshooting message will appear with a list of possible solutions.