Drivers and firmware are two types of software that let a computer's hardware work. A driver is a program that lets the operating system communicate with a specific device, such as a graphics card or printer. Firmware is low-level software built into a hardware component that controls how it starts and operates, such as a PC's BIOS or UEFI.
Both are forms of system software that most people rarely see. But when a webcam stops working, Wi-Fi drops, or a PC won't start correctly, outdated or faulty drivers and firmware are often the cause.
Drivers and firmware essentials at a glance
Drivers connect the operating system to hardware; firmware runs on the hardware itself
BIOS and UEFI are the system firmware that start a PC and load the operating system
UEFI is the modern replacement for BIOS and is required for Windows 11
Driver and firmware updates fix bugs, improve compatibility, and close security gaps
Get updates from your OS, your PC maker, or the device maker, never from unknown websites
What Is a Device Driver?
A device driver is software that translates instructions between the operating system and a piece of hardware. Every device works differently, so the OS doesn't need to know the details of each one. Instead, the driver tells the OS what the device can do and converts general commands, like "print this page," into the specific instructions that device understands.
How drivers work
When you click Print, the app sends the request to the operating system. The OS passes it to the printer driver, which converts it into commands the printer can process. The same process happens every time you move a mouse, play a sound, or connect to Wi-Fi.
Windows includes many generic drivers that let basic devices work as soon as you plug them in. Manufacturer drivers often add full functionality, better performance, and extra features, such as custom touchpad gestures or advanced printer settings.
Common types of drivers
Driver type | What it controls | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
Chipset drivers | The motherboard's core components and data paths | Stability, power management, and overall performance |
Graphics drivers | The integrated or dedicated graphics processor | Display quality, game performance, and external monitor support |
Audio drivers | Speakers, headphone jacks, and microphones | Sound output, input, and audio features |
Network drivers | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth adapters | Connection speed and reliability |
Input drivers | Keyboards, touchpads, touch screens, and pens | Gestures, shortcuts, and pen pressure |
Printer and scanner drivers | Connected printers and scanners | Print quality options and scanning features |
Camera drivers | Built-in and external webcams | Video quality and camera features |
Storage drivers | SSDs and storage controllers | Data transfer speed and reliability |
What Is Firmware?
Firmware is software permanently stored on a chip inside a hardware device, where it controls the device's basic functions. Unlike apps or drivers, firmware is stored in nonvolatile memory, such as flash memory, so it stays in place even when the power is off. It's the first code that runs when a device turns on.
Nearly every electronic device has firmware, not just computers. Printers, monitors, routers, keyboards, and smart TVs all rely on it.
Examples of firmware in a PC
System firmware (BIOS or UEFI): Starts the PC, checks the hardware, and loads the operating system.
Embedded controller firmware: Manages the keyboard, battery charging, fans, and power button on many laptops.
Storage firmware: Runs inside an SSD to manage how data is written, read, and maintained.
Component firmware: Controls devices such as Wi-Fi cards, Thunderbolt™ controllers, docks, and webcams.
Peripheral firmware: Runs inside connected devices, such as monitors, printers, and wireless mice.
Firmware updates are less frequent than app updates, but they're important. They can fix bugs, add support for new hardware, improve battery and thermal management, and patch security vulnerabilities that software alone can't fix.
BIOS vs. UEFI: What's the Difference?
BIOS and UEFI are both types of system firmware that start a computer and hand control to the operating system. The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is the original standard, used since the early days of the PC. The Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is its modern replacement, offering faster startup, support for larger drives, and stronger security.
Most PCs sold today use UEFI, but many people and PC makers still call the firmware settings "the BIOS." On HP computers, you'll often see the setup screen labeled BIOS Setup Utility, even on UEFI systems.
What system firmware does at startup
Runs a power-on self-test (POST) to check the processor, memory, and other key hardware.
Initializes components such as the storage, keyboard, and display.
Finds a bootable drive based on the boot order.
Loads the operating system's boot loader and hands over control.
BIOS vs. UEFI comparison
Feature | Legacy BIOS | UEFI |
|---|---|---|
Era | Original PC standard | Modern standard on most PCs today |
Boot speed | Slower | Generally faster |
Drive support | Master Boot Record (MBR); boot drives limited to about 2TB | GUID Partition Table (GPT); supports much larger boot drives |
Security | Basic | Supports Secure Boot to block untrusted boot software |
Interface | Text-based, keyboard only | Can include a graphical interface with mouse support |
Windows 11 support | Not supported | Required, with Secure Boot capability |
What is Secure Boot?
Secure Boot is a UEFI security feature that only allows trusted, digitally signed software to load during startup. It helps prevent rootkits and other malware from taking control of a PC before the operating system starts. Windows 11 requires a PC that's Secure Boot capable, and it's typically turned on by default on new PCs.
How to open BIOS Setup on an HP computer
On most HP computers, you can open the BIOS Setup Utility during startup. According to HP's guide to the BIOS Setup Utility:
Turn off the computer.
Press the power button, then immediately press the Esc key repeatedly until the Startup Menu opens.
Press F10 to open the BIOS Setup Utility.
Steps can vary by model and BIOS version. Change BIOS settings only if you know what they do, since incorrect settings can prevent your PC from starting normally. Many HP business PCs also include HP Sure Start, which helps protect the BIOS from attacks and can recover it if it's corrupted. Learn more about business security.
Drivers vs. Firmware
The key difference is where each one runs: a driver runs inside the operating system, while firmware runs on the hardware itself. A graphics card, for example, has firmware on the card that controls its basic operation and a driver in Windows that lets apps and games use it.
Drivers | Firmware | |
|---|---|---|
Where it's stored | On the PC's main drive, as part of the OS | On a chip inside the hardware component |
Where it runs | Inside the operating system | On the device, often before the OS loads |
Main job | Lets the OS and apps communicate with a device | Controls the device's core functions and startup |
OS-specific? | Yes; a Windows driver won't work on ChromeOS or Linux | No; works the same regardless of OS |
Survives an OS reinstall? | No; drivers must be reinstalled | Yes; firmware stays on the device |
How it's updated | Windows Update, PC maker's support app, or device maker's website | Firmware or BIOS update from the device or PC maker |
Risk of a failed update | Usually low; can roll back to a previous driver | Higher; an interrupted update can make a device unusable |
For a broader comparison of hardware, firmware, and software, see What Is Computer Software?.
How to Update Drivers and Firmware
The safest way to update drivers and firmware is through Windows Update or your PC maker's official support tools. These sources deliver updates tested for your specific model. Avoid third-party "driver updater" programs and unofficial download sites, which can install the wrong drivers or bundle unwanted software.
Where to get driver and firmware updates
Source | What it provides | Best for |
|---|---|---|
Windows Update | Security updates, many drivers, and some firmware | Automatic, everyday updates |
HP Support Assistant | HP-recommended drivers, BIOS, firmware, and HP software for your model | Checking for HP-specific updates on Windows PCs |
HP Customer Support software and driver downloads | Drivers, BIOS, and firmware listed by product model | Finding a specific update or reinstalling a driver |
Component maker's website | Latest drivers for a specific component, such as a graphics card | Gamers and creators who want the newest graphics drivers |
ChromeOS automatic updates | OS, drivers, and firmware updates bundled together | Chromebooks |
How to update drivers on Windows 11
Open Settings, then select Windows Update.
Select Check for updates and install any available updates.
Select Advanced options, then Optional updates, to see additional driver updates.
On an HP PC, open HP Support Assistant and check for updates for your device.
How to update the BIOS safely
A BIOS update changes the firmware that starts your PC, so an interruption can cause serious problems. Install a BIOS update only when it fixes an issue you have, adds support you need, or patches a security vulnerability. Follow these precautions:
Use only the update for your exact model, from Windows Update, HP Support Assistant, or HP Customer Support.
Plug in the AC adapter and make sure a laptop battery is well charged before you start.
Save your work and close all apps.
Don't turn off or restart the PC until the update finishes, even if the screen goes blank or the PC restarts on its own.
Back up important files beforehand as a general precaution.
Keeping drivers and firmware current is part of keeping your entire PC up to date. Learn how software updates work, or see how to keep your laptop updated.
How to Fix Common Driver Problems
Most driver problems can be fixed by updating, rolling back, or reinstalling the driver in Windows Device Manager. Common signs of a driver issue include a device that stops working, no sound, flickering or low-resolution displays, dropped Wi-Fi connections, or a touchpad that doesn't respond.
Check a device in Device Manager
Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
Expand the category for the device, such as Display adapters or Network adapters.
Look for a yellow warning icon, which indicates a problem with the device or its driver.
Right-click the device and select Properties to view its status and driver details.
Choose the right fix
Problem | What to try | Where in Device Manager |
|---|---|---|
Device worked before but stopped after an update | Roll back to the previous driver | Properties → Driver → Roll Back Driver |
Device has a yellow warning icon or outdated driver | Update the driver | Right-click → Update driver |
Driver seems corrupted or keeps failing | Uninstall the device, then restart so Windows reinstalls it | Right-click → Uninstall device |
Device is missing entirely | Scan for hardware changes, then check HP Support Assistant | Action → Scan for hardware changes |
If these steps don't solve the problem, run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics to check whether the hardware itself has failed. See more laptop troubleshooting tips.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drivers and Firmware
Do I need to install drivers on a new PC?
A new Windows PC usually comes with the drivers it needs already installed. After setup, run Windows Update and your PC maker's support app to install the latest driver and firmware updates released since the PC was built.
Is it safe to update the BIOS?
Updating the BIOS is generally safe when you use the official update for your exact model and keep the PC plugged in until the update finishes. The main risk is an interruption, such as a power loss, during the update.
Are third-party driver updater programs safe?
Third-party driver updater programs aren't necessary and can install incorrect or unstable drivers. Windows Update and the PC maker's official support tools are the safer sources for driver updates.
What is the difference between BIOS and CMOS?
The BIOS is the firmware that starts the computer. The CMOS is a small memory chip that stores BIOS settings, such as the system date, time, and boot order. On many PCs, a small coin-cell battery keeps the CMOS settings when the computer is unplugged.
Does reinstalling Windows remove drivers and firmware?
Reinstalling Windows removes installed drivers, but it doesn't change firmware. Firmware, including the BIOS or UEFI, is stored on the hardware and stays in place. Windows reinstalls basic drivers automatically, and others can be added through Windows Update or the PC maker's support site.
