BleepingComputer.com: Video Drivers

I think I understand the procedure but want to be absolutely sure since I'm trying to help a friend with this problem.

To update video drivers I first have to download the latest ones from the manufacturer. Then uninstall the current drivers and then install the new ones, right? The firewall and anitvirus softwear should be shut down while doing this, correct?

Not that it matters but the reason for needing updated drivers is because he is having a graphics issue while trying to run a sim racing game called rFactor. Their suggestion is to do this first and go from there. He is running Windows Vista if that makes any difference.

Thanks for the help.

Tom

Moved from the "XP Forum". ~acklan~

Yeah, that's correct. Just make sure you download Windows Vista Drivers and make sure the video card is Vista-capable before anything. If it's not Vista-capable, Vista will still run but with many problems and in that case, it's not a driver issue, it's hardware. But start easy with the drivers and you can work it out from there.

Thank you very much.....he ain't gonna be happy if his card is not compatible with Vista. Glad it ain't me!

There's actually 3 methods used to update video drivers:
1) just install it over the old one
2) uninstall the old one's and install the new one's
3) Use an uninstall tool or manually remove all traces of the old one and then install new one's.

The first method is generally used for routine updates - not when having significant problems.

The second is a "middle ground" and removes most of the old drivers prior to the installation of the new ones. This sort of cleans house to get rid of all the old settings.

The last is the method used when the second method doesn't work.