Keeping your Windows 11 PC running smoothly means keeping your drivers up to date. Outdated drivers can lead to performance issues, hardware malfunctions, and even system crashes. But manually updating each driver can be time-consuming and frustrating.
In this complete guide, we’ll show you how to update all drivers at once on Windows 11, step by step. We’ll cover built-in tools, third-party driver update utilities, and best practices to make sure your PC stays optimized — without risking stability.
Why Updating Drivers Is Important
Drivers act as the bridge between Windows and your hardware components (graphics card, network adapter, audio chip, etc.). When drivers are outdated, you may face:
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Lower performance (e.g., lag in games or slow rendering)
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Crashes and blue screens
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Security vulnerabilities
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Compatibility issues with new software or Windows updates
By updating drivers regularly, you ensure:
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Optimal system performance
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Better stability and fewer errors
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Access to the latest features and bug fixes
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Improved security
Can You Really Update All Drivers at Once?
Yes — but not all drivers update automatically through Windows Update. Windows 11 includes tools to keep many drivers updated, but GPU, chipset, and some third-party device drivers may need separate updates.
You can:
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Use Windows Update to install most generic drivers.
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Use Device Manager for individual drivers.
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Use third-party driver update software for bulk updates.
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Download drivers directly from manufacturers for maximum compatibility.
Let’s break down your options.
Method 1: Update Drivers Using Windows Update
Windows Update can handle many driver updates automatically.
Steps to Update All Drivers via Windows Update
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Go to Windows Update from the left panel.
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Click Check for updates.
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Scroll down and click Advanced options.
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Select Optional updates > Driver updates.
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Select all available driver updates and click Download & install.
Pros:
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Safe and reliable (Microsoft-certified drivers)
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Quick and built-in
Cons:
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May not include the very latest drivers (especially for GPUs)
Method 2: Update Drivers Using Device Manager
Device Manager allows you to manually update drivers one by one — but you can speed up the process by doing them all in a session.
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Press Win + X and choose Device Manager.
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Expand each category (Display adapters, Network adapters, etc.).
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Right-click on a device > Update driver.
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Choose Search automatically for drivers.
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Repeat for all major devices.
Tip: Focus on critical drivers:
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Graphics card
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Network adapter
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Audio device
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Chipset
Method 3: Update Drivers Using Command Prompt (Power Users)
You can use PowerShell to automate Windows Update driver downloads:
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Search for PowerShell and run as Administrator.
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Enter:
This uses the PSWindowsUpdate module (you may need to install it first using Install-Module -Name PSWindowsUpdate).
This method updates all drivers that Windows Update can detect in one go — no clicking required.
Method 4: Use Manufacturer’s Driver Update Tools
Most major PC and hardware manufacturers have free tools to scan and update all drivers automatically.
Examples:
| Manufacturer | Tool Name | Download Link |
|---|---|---|
| Intel | Intel Driver & Support Assistant | Download Here |
| NVIDIA | GeForce Experience | Download Here |
| AMD | AMD Adrenalin Software | Download Here |
| Dell | Dell SupportAssist | Download Here |
| HP | HP Support Assistant | Download Here |
| Lenovo | Lenovo Vantage | Download Here |
These tools:
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Detect all drivers specific to your system
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Download and install them automatically
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Keep everything up to date in the background
Method 5: Use Third-Party Driver Updater Software
If you want a one-click solution to update all drivers at once, third-party software can save time.
Popular Options:
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Driver Booster (by IObit) – Free and paid versions available
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Driver Easy – Easy UI, bulk update feature
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Snappy Driver Installer – Open-source, no bloatware
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DriverPack Solution – Large driver database
Steps (Example: Driver Booster):
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Download and install Driver Booster.
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Launch the app and click Scan.
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Review detected outdated drivers.
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Click Update Now to update them all at once.
⚠ Warning: Only use reputable tools. Avoid shady websites offering “miracle driver updaters” — they may install malware.
Best Practices Before Updating Drivers
To avoid problems during driver updates:
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Create a system restore point (Control Panel > System > System Protection > Create).
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Backup important files before large updates.
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Avoid downloading drivers from unverified websites.
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Update one category at a time (GPU first, then chipset, then others).
Common Issues After Driver Updates
Sometimes, new drivers can cause unexpected problems.
What to Do If a New Driver Breaks Something
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Open Device Manager
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Right-click the device > Properties > Driver tab > Roll Back Driver
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Or restore your PC using System Restore
Pro Tips for Maintaining Updated Drivers
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Set a monthly reminder to check for updates.
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Keep Windows Update enabled for security patches.
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Update GPU drivers before installing new games for best performance.
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Use manufacturer tools for critical hardware (chipset, GPU, network adapter).
Conclusion
Updating all drivers at once on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you use Windows Update, manufacturer utilities, or trusted driver updater tools, you can keep your PC running at peak performance with minimal effort.
The key is to choose a safe, efficient method and keep updates regular — not just when problems appear. By following this guide, you’ll avoid crashes, improve compatibility, and make the most of your Windows 11 system.
FAQs About Updating Drivers on Windows 11
1. Can I update all drivers automatically in Windows 11?
Yes — using Windows Update or third-party tools like Driver Booster lets you update multiple drivers at once.
2. How often should I update my drivers?
Once a month is ideal. GPU drivers may need more frequent updates if you play new games often.
3. Is it safe to use driver updater software?
Yes, if you use reputable tools (IObit Driver Booster, Snappy Driver Installer, etc.). Avoid unknown sources.
4. What drivers are most important to update?
GPU, chipset, network, and audio drivers should be top priority for performance and stability.
5. Can updating drivers improve FPS in games?
Yes, especially GPU drivers. Game-ready drivers are often optimized for new titles and can boost FPS.