If you’re experiencing issues with a device after a driver update, rolling back to a previous version might resolve the problem. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you roll back a driver on a Windows computer.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
- Press
Win + X: This will open the Quick Access menu. - Select Device Manager: Click on "Device Manager" from the list.
Step 2: Locate the Device
- Identify the Device: In Device Manager, find the device you need to roll back.
- Devices are categorized. For example, network issues might involve "Network adapters."
- Expand the Category: Click the arrow to expand the list of devices in that category.
Step 3: Access Driver Properties
- Right-click the Device: Choose the device you need to roll back.
- Select Properties: Click on "Properties" from the context menu.
Step 4: Roll Back the Driver
- Navigate to the Driver Tab: In the properties window, go to the "Driver" tab.
- Click on Roll Back Driver:
- If the button is clickable (not grayed out), select it.
- Confirm the action when prompted, often you’ll need to provide a reason for the rollback.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
After the rollback process is complete:
- Click OK: Exit the Properties window.
- Restart Your Computer: This ensures all changes are applied correctly.
Troubleshooting
- Roll Back Option Grayed Out: If the roll back option is unavailable, it could be due to the absence of a previous version of the driver on your system.
- No Improvement: If rolling back the driver doesn’t solve the problem, consider updating the driver again or performing further troubleshooting.
Additional Tips
- Create a System Restore Point: Before making changes, it’s a good idea to create a system restore point.
- Download Drivers from Manufacturer: If the rollback doesn’t work, download older versions from the device manufacturer’s website.
Rolling back a driver can resolve many compatibility and performance issues. Always ensure you’re taking the necessary precautions to prevent data loss during such operations.
