Deleting drivers on Windows 10 can help improve system performance and resolve hardware issues. To delete drivers, open Device Manager, find the driver you want to remove, right-click on it, and select “Uninstall device.” Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation. This process ensures that unnecessary drivers are removed from your system, potentially freeing up resources and resolving conflicts.
How to Delete Drivers on Windows 10
In this section, we will walk you through the steps to delete drivers on your Windows 10 computer. By following these steps, you’ll be able to remove unwanted or outdated drivers that might be causing issues.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
To begin, access the Device Manager on your Windows 10 computer.
You can do this easily by right-clicking on the Start menu and selecting “Device Manager” from the list. Device Manager is the hub where you can view and control all of your hardware devices and their drivers.
Step 2: Locate the Driver
Next, find the specific driver you want to delete.
In Device Manager, you’ll see a list of hardware categories. Expand the category that corresponds to the device whose driver you need to remove. For example, if you’re having trouble with a graphics card, expand the “Display adapters” category to find its driver.
Step 3: Right-Click on the Driver
Once you’ve located the driver, right-click on it.
Right-clicking on the driver will open a context menu. This menu gives you various options, including updating, disabling, or uninstalling the driver.
Step 4: Select ‘Uninstall Device’
Choose “Uninstall device” from the context menu.
Selecting “Uninstall device” will prompt a confirmation dialog. Here, you’ll have the option to also delete the software for the driver, which is useful for making sure it’s thoroughly removed.
Step 5: Follow the Prompts
Finally, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process.
Carefully read through any prompts or dialogs to ensure that you’re only uninstalling the intended driver. Once done, your computer may ask you to restart to finalize changes.
After completing these actions, the driver will be removed from your Windows 10 system. This could lead to immediate improvements in performance or resolve issues related to that specific driver. However, be aware that removing a driver may disable certain hardware until a new driver is installed.
Tips for Deleting Drivers on Windows 10
- Backup First: Before deleting any drivers, create a system restore point in case you need to revert changes.
- Identify the Issue: Make sure the driver is the cause of your problem to avoid unnecessary deletions.
- Keep Software Updated: Regular updates can sometimes resolve driver issues without needing removal.
- Use Safe Mode: If you’re having trouble uninstalling a driver, try booting your computer into Safe Mode.
- Reboot After Uninstall: Restart your computer after uninstalling drivers to ensure changes take effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I delete the wrong driver?
Deleting the wrong driver might cause the device to stop working. Create a restore point to recover your system if needed.
Can I reinstall a driver after deleting it?
Yes, you can reinstall drivers by downloading them from the device manufacturer’s website or using Windows Update.
Why should I delete old drivers?
Old drivers can cause conflicts or slow down your system, so deleting them can improve performance and stability.
Is there a risk in deleting drivers?
There’s a risk if you delete essential drivers. Ensure you know which driver is safe to uninstall and have a backup plan.
How do I know which driver to delete?
Identify problematic drivers by checking for errors in Device Manager or researching any issues you’re experiencing.
Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate the driver.
- Right-click the driver.
- Select ‘Uninstall device.’
- Follow the prompts.
Conclusion
Deleting drivers on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your computer’s performance and solve various hardware-related issues. While the steps are simple, it’s essential to proceed with caution, ensuring that you only remove drivers you are sure about. Backup your system to prevent any loss of functionality, and always keep an eye on updates that might improve driver performance without needing deletion.
If you’re new to managing drivers, consider reading up on common driver issues to better understand what might be impacting your system. Alternatively, you can always consult a tech-savvy friend or a professional if you’re unsure. Remember, maintaining a healthy driver environment is akin to keeping your car’s engine in top shape—it ensures everything runs smoothly and efficiently. So, take a proactive approach and regularly review your drivers, deleting those that are outdated or causing trouble.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.