Overview
Knowing a device’s driver version helps you confirm updates, diagnose problems, and check compatibility. Windows exposes this in several places. This guide shows how to find driver versions through Device Manager and the command line.
Key Takeaways
- Device Manager shows the driver version and date per device.
- The driverquery command lists all installed drivers at once.
- Version and date together confirm whether a driver is current.
- Match the version against the manufacturer’s latest release.
Check in Device Manager
1. Press Windows + R, type devmgmt.msc, and press Enter.
2. Expand the category and double-click the device.
3. Open the Driver tab to see the Driver Version and Driver Date.
4. Compare it with the newest version on the vendor’s site.
Check From the Command Line
1. Open Command Prompt.
2. List all drivers with: driverquery
3. For detailed info including versions, run: driverquery /v
4. Redirect to a file if needed: driverquery /v > drivers.txt
Tip: Record the current version and date before updating a driver so you can roll back if the new one causes problems.
Troubleshooting
Problem: The Driver tab shows no version.
Solution: The device may use a built-in Windows driver; check the manufacturer’s site for a dedicated driver.
Problem: driverquery does not list a specific device.
Solution: Some user-mode drivers are not shown; use Device Manager for those devices.
Problem: You are unsure if a driver is current.
Solution: Note the version and date and compare against the latest release on the vendor’s download page.
Problem: A driver update made things worse.
Solution: Open the Driver tab and use Roll Back Driver to return to the previous version.
Conclusion
Checking driver versions is quick through Device Manager or driverquery. Knowing the exact version lets you confirm updates and troubleshoot hardware with confidence.
About TechHub
This guide is part of the TechHub Knowledge Base. For more step-by-step IT guides and support, visit techhub.com.lk.
