driver updates

[Baxdaddy]

How often should one update their drivers for all their perifery? I mean the parts are running well what real benefit is derived with the new driver? I can understand the value of updated definition files for our defensive programs but am seeking guidance on updating/keeping current on other items. Opinions please. TIA

[Midknyte]

I go by the rule, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

The only drivers you probably need to update would be for video cards to support newer games, fix glitches, or increase performance.

[mireland]

I go by the rule, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
.

DITTO!

[Sterling_Aug]

Definitely NOT DITTO!!!

I update all drivers including the BIOS of all devices in all of my systems as soon as I find an update is available. Even if it was just updated last week.

It someone thinks it is broken enough to get the manufacturer to write a new driver update, then it is good enough for me to install it.

[Midknyte]

Being proactive is good, but I would temper that with a bit of caution.

The problem is that sometimes the new "fixes" will actually cause more problems. I recall an Abit bios that came out and messed up some motherboards. I can't remember the specific model ATM, but it was a while back. When the nvidia 71.84 drivers came out, lots of people reported a "temp bug" issue on the 6800s. Nvidia released the 71.89s a couple of days later to fix that.

Some fixes or updates only target specific issues. If you're not one of the people affected, then the update will be of little benefit. You can do the update, but you probably won't gain much. Check the changelog/release notes to see exactly what the update will do for you.

Updating is good, but you might want to wait a week to see if any problems arise. Let some other people be the guinea pigs. if the release seems to be bug-free, then update.

I don't think there is a right or wrong answer; it's more a matter of preference.

edit: found the bad bios. it was the BH6.
http://members.fortunecity.com/overc...re/abitbh6.htm

[cdroman]

I usually read what is fixed with the new drivers. If any of the items fixed apply to my situation I will get the new drivers. If they don't and everything is working properly I will leave as is.

[mireland]

never updated my home pc drivers in my life...unfortunatly when I worked for HP I had to do update chipset drives to get their POS printer to work...

[dajogejr]

I always use the latest driver updates and install them.
That being said, I always have a month old at most TI Image, in case things go awry....

I had a couple issues with my AIW 9800 around the Cat driver version 4.5 or 4.7...If I remember...

[G Ray88]

Updates are good just be sure to read any directions that come with them very carefully,
I went a Little to fast on the click with a modem update, next thing I know the modem wouldn't work. A good thing system restore works!
Good Luck

[Rocketmech]

For high end machines I look for fixes and performance improvements , then wait for the crowd to test them out , if it looks good I give them a try.
For web / soho boxes I may never even consider it if its working properly.
New pc's and hardware get the newest drivers/firmware available at setup.

[dajogejr]

Fine point, Rocket.
For work's servers, they get Critical Windows UPdates only...unless they are specifically having an issue a driver update fixes....

[JediOfDarkness]

I always update my graphics drivers, but that's about it. For everything else I go by the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" rule as well.

[Baxdaddy]

I am not having any issues so I will go out and only update my catalyst drivers and perhaps direct X. Thanks for your replies!

[Rabbitrunner51]

I agree..more of the content for latest driver updates..what they may be have to do with additions for newer HW..Mobos or what have you. Performance is the main key here as mostly if you read the MO that is what is affected most.

As with regards to MS... I am and always will be very skeptical about thier supposed need for alot of thier updates...as yes if it ain't broke don't fix it is good philosophy.

if yur really still wondering though what needs to be updated ..then a good program on the market is Driver Magician. It willscan yor systemandgive you the lsit and choices for any driver updates. LOL

[AllGamer]

i agree with Sterlin.... i upgrade it as soon as i find a new update.

and keep a backup of the last version, just in case the newest version is "even worse" than the previous version.

LOL ) seen that a lot in the past