Computer Maker Drivers

• After a reinstallation of Windows, it's important to visit the website of the computer manufacturer first. All major makers provide collections of drivers organized in collections according to model numbers. When searching for these collections match your model number exactly with the model numbers indicated on the website, as there are very important differences between, for example, a GT4224 computer and a GT4225 computer. If you cannot download directly to your computer because the Ethernet adapter isn't functional yet, use another computer and download the Ethernet adapter file to a flash drive. Restore function to your Ethernet adapter first and then download remaining files directly to your computer.
  
  

Other Device Drivers

• Since many owners upgrade devices after purchase, manufacturers' websites won't offer help with these non-native components. When this occurs, you must go "driver hunting" to reconstitute your driver base. One way to identify these devices is to literally inspect them, inside your desktop computer case, and find the make/model information. If this is impossible, try downloading a free software called Everest Free Home Edition. Everest will correctly identify most components accurately and offer links for finding drivers.
  
  

"Driver Detectives"

• A web search for a particular driver will invariably result in pages of "hits," but be cautious. Some of these "driver detective" programs are infected; you will receive no real help with the drivers but will receive a Trojan virus for your trouble. Many of these programs infect your computer and then offer to sell you the cure. To be safe, look for driver detective programs that are certified by CNET before clicking the "Download Now" button.
  
  

Free Driver Scans

• Avoid "free" driver scanners unless you are prepared to pay for the results. Many of these "free" programs are really trial offers: the scanner will report it has found your missing drivers but won't give you the results until you've paid a licensing fee. You may or may not then receive a driver that actually helps. Fortunately, there is one truly free driver service that is "clean"--driverguide.com. Register your email address with driverguide.com and you'll have instant access to thousands of drivers for free, and safe, downloads.
  
  

Software

• You can only rarely transfer a software program, intact, from one hard drive to another. Most software programs must be reinstalled from setup files. Major titles from Microsoft, Adobe, Corel and Intuit must be installed from real setup disks, as the software is not available for download from the web. Find your disks and any accompanying product keycodes and reinstall your software. Other software titles may be available for free download. Check a safe site, filehippo.com, where you can find hundreds of free downloads of popular programs like Adobe Reader, iTunes, OpenOffice, and more.
  
  

Plan Ahead

• Computer hard drives crash all the time. Chances are you will be repeating this driver and software search again in the future. Keep copies of all your drivers on a special flash drive. Store your setup disks and keycode information in a safe place.