Experiencing system slowdowns or strange hardware glitches?

Before you assume the worst, take a moment to check your CPU drivers. They might be outdated and quietly affecting your computer’s performance.

So, what exactly are CPU drivers, and why should you care? Think of CPU drivers as the bridge between your computer’s brain (the processor) and the rest of your system. They help ensure that your hardware and software speak the same language. When those drivers are outdated or missing, things can go sideways like slow boot times, crashing programs, or even complete system instability.

Why does this matter? Updating your CPU drivers can lead to better performance, improved system security, and increased compatibility with the latest hardware and software. It’s a simple step that can make a noticeable difference, especially if you haven’t checked in a while.

What will you learn here? In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to update CPU drivers on Windows 10 and 11 using different methods.

Let’s get started.

Do You Need to Update CPU Drivers?5 Methods Waits  

Understanding CPU Drivers

Before we jump into updates, let’s clear up what CPU drivers actually are. Simply put, CPU drivers are small software programs that help your operating system communicate with your processor. While the CPU is the “brain” of your computer, it still needs instructions and support to work smoothly with other components like memory, graphics, and storage. That’s where drivers come in. They make everything talk to each other seamlessly.

Unlike graphics or sound drivers, CPU drivers don’t get updated as often. In many cases, they’re bundled with your motherboard drivers or tied to BIOS updates. But when something does go wrong, outdated drivers could be a hidden culprit.

Signs Your CPU Drivers May Be Outdated

Most users don’t think about CPU drivers until something goes wrong and that’s fair. But here are a few common warning signs that your drivers might need attention:

• Your system feels slower than usual without any clear reason
• Programs or the OS crash unexpectedly
• New hardware (like SSDs or GPUs) isn’t performing correctly
• You’re having trouble installing certain updates
• Your PC freezes or randomly restarts

If any of these sound familiar, your CPU drivers might be due for an update or at least a check.

Benefits of Updating CPU Drivers

Updating CPU drivers isn’t something you need to do every week, but when the time is right, it can bring some serious benefits:

• Improved performance – New drivers can help your processor run more efficiently, especially if bugs or inefficiencies were patched.
• Better compatibility – Updates ensure your CPU works smoothly with the latest Windows versions, applications, and hardware components.
• Security fixes – Driver updates often include security patches that protect your system from vulnerabilities.
• Stability – If you’ve been dealing with random system crashes or freezing, an updated CPU driver might stabilize things.

In short: while CPU driver updates aren’t always necessary, keeping them current when issues arise or when you’re upgrading related hardware, can keep your system running smoothly and securely.

Methods to Update CPU Drivers

Whether you’re trying to solve a system glitch, boost performance, or ensure compatibility with new hardware, updating your CPU drivers can help. Below are five trusted methods to get the job done, each with step-by-step guidance.

Method 1 – Using Windows Update

The easiest and safest way to update your CPU drivers especially for most users is by using Windows Update. Microsoft often bundles CPU driver updates with its regular system updates.

Steps:

1. Click Start, then select Settings (the gear icon).
2. Navigate to Update & Security.
3. Click on Windows Update from the sidebar.
4. Click Check for updates.
5. If a driver update is available for your CPU or related chipset, it will be downloaded and installed automatically.

Tip: Even if Windows Update doesn’t directly list “CPU drivers,” any chipset or firmware updates related to your processor are often included in these packages.

Method 2 – Through Device Manager

Device Manager is a built-in tool that allows you to manually manage hardware drivers, including those for your CPU.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Scroll down and expand the section labeled Processors.
3. Right click on one of the processor entries (you may see multiple this is normal) and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. Windows will search for any available updates and install them if found.

Note: If Windows says “The best drivers are already installed,” it doesn’t always mean you’re fully up-to-date. That’s where checking the manufacturer’s website can help.

Method 3 – Manufacturer’s Official Website

If you want the latest drivers, going straight to the source is often the most effective method. Intel and AMD both maintain driver download portals for their CPUs and chipsets.

For Intel CPUs:

• Visit Intel Download Center
• Use the search bar to enter your processor model (e.g., “i7-10700K”)
• Download the latest chipset or CPU related drivers

For AMD CPUs:

• Visit AMD Drivers and Support
• Use the product selector or search for your exact CPU
• Download the chipset drivers

Pro Tip: Install the Intel Driver & Support Assistant or AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition to automate future updates.

Method 4 – Updating BIOS

This method is more advanced, but sometimes it’s the only way to “update” a CPU’s functionality especially for older motherboards or CPUs without built-in graphics.

Important: Updating BIOS should be done cautiously. A failed update can render your system unusable.

Steps:

1. Identify your motherboard model (you can use tools like CPU-Z or check your manual).
2. Go to the manufacturer’s official website (ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, etc.).
3. Search for the latest BIOS update under your specific motherboard model.
4. Follow their instructions exactly. This usually involves:
   • Downloading the BIOS file.
   • Transferring it to a USB drive.
   • Entering the BIOS/UEFI menu during boot (press Del or F2).
   • Using the EZ Flash or similar tool to update the BIOS.

Only update your BIOS if you’re experiencing problems or need support for a new CPU model. If everything works fine, it’s usually best to leave BIOS alone.

Method 5 – Using Third-Party Tools

If you prefer a simpler, one-click solution or don’t want to manually track driver versions, there are third-party applications that can help you update CPU and chipset drivers safely.

Trusted Tools Include:

• Driver Booster by IObit
• Driver Easy
• Snappy Driver Installer
• Intel Driver & Support Assistant
• AMD Software

How to use (example with Driver Booster):

1. Download and install Driver Booster.
2. Launch the tool and click Scan.
3. It will list outdated drivers, including those related to your CPU.
4. Click Update All or selectively update the CPU related ones.

Caution: Always download these tools from the official websites to avoid bloatware or malware.

Need AMD-Specific Driver Help?
For a complete walkthrough tailored to AMD processors, check out our AMD CPU Drivers: Download, Install & Update Guide (2025). It covers everything from finding the right driver to updating it safely.

Updating your CPU drivers can be simple or a bit more hands-on, depending on your comfort level. For most people, Windows Update and the manufacturer’s website are the safest bets. If you’re dealing with older hardware or specific bugs, exploring BIOS updates or third-party tools might be worth it but always proceed with caution.

Verifying CPU Driver Updates

So, you’ve gone through the update process but how do you know it actually worked? Let’s walk through how to confirm your CPU drivers are truly up to date.

Checking Driver Version

To verify your current CPU driver version:

1. Right click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. In the list, expand the section labeled Processors.
3. Right click on any entry that matches your CPU and select Properties.
4. In the window that opens, click the Driver tab.

Here you’ll see details like:

• Driver Version
• Driver Date
• Driver Provider

Compare this information with the version listed on your CPU or motherboard manufacturer’s website (like Intel or AMD). If they match, you’re good to go.

Ensuring Successful Installation

Here are a few quick ways to make sure the new driver is working properly:

• No Error Messages: After the update, your system should boot normally with no warning signs or device errors.
• Improved Performance: If the update fixed a specific issue like lag or hardware glitches performance should now be smoother.
• No Yellow Warnings in Device Manager: A yellow triangle next to your processor name in Device Manager means there’s still a problem.
• System Stability: Your computer should not crash, freeze, or behave unpredictably. If it does, you may need to roll back the update or try a different driver version.

Tip: If you’re unsure whether the update took effect, restarting your computer after installation helps complete the process.

Using an Intel LGA 1151 CPU?
Make sure you know exactly which processor you're working with. Check out our Comprehensive LGA 1151 CPU List: Compatible Intel Processors Guide to confirm compatibility before updating drivers.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even when you follow all the right steps, updating CPU drivers doesn’t always go smoothly. Here’s how to handle the most common problems you might face without the stress.

Installation Errors

Sometimes, the driver simply won’t install. Don’t worry, it’s usually something simple.

• Check for Compatibility
  Before you install a new driver, make sure it’s designed for your exact Windows version (like Windows 10 or Windows 11, 64-bit vs 32-bit). An incompatible version can cause the update to fail.
• Run as Administrator
  If the installer doesn’t launch or fails mid-way, try right clicking the setup file and selecting “Run as Administrator.” This gives the installer the necessary permissions to modify system files.

Driver Conflicts

Old or incorrect drivers can clash with new ones, leading to performance issues or system errors.

• Uninstall Previous Drivers First
  Before installing a new driver manually (especially from a manufacturer’s website), it’s a good idea to uninstall the old version.
  • Go to Device Manager
  • Expand Processors or System Devices
  • Right click the old driver and choose Uninstall
• Use System Restore if Things Go Wrong
  If your system starts acting up after a driver update like blue screens, freezes, or crashing apps but don’t panic. You can roll back your system to a stable point:
  • Open Control Panel
  • Search for “Recovery”
  • Select Open System Restore
  • Follow the steps to go back to a time before the update

Pro Tip: Always create a System Restore point before installing any driver manually. It takes just a minute and can save you a lot of headaches later.

Keep Your CPU in Top Shape
Updating drivers is just part of CPU maintenance. Don’t forget to physically care for your processor too! Check out our step-by-step guide on how to clean your CPU for safe and effective cleaning tips.

Best Practices for CPU Driver Updates

Keeping your CPU drivers updated is important but doing it the right way is even more important. These best practices can help you avoid hiccups and keep your system running smoothly.

Regular Maintenance is Essential

Think of driver updates like oil changes for your computer they don’t always need to happen frequently, but they’re crucial when they do.

• Why it matters: Regularly checking for updates can improve performance, patch security vulnerabilities, and ensure compatibility with newer software.
• When to check: At least once every few months, or anytime you’re installing a major operating system update or new hardware.

Pro tip: If your system is running smoothly and you’re not facing any issues, it’s okay to hold off on a CPU driver update unless it’s security related.

Backup Before Updating

Always play it safe before making changes to your system.

• Create a system restore point so you can roll back if something goes wrong.
• Backup important files and settings especially if you’re updating your BIOS or motherboard chipset.

Why this matters: While rare, a failed driver or BIOS update can cause instability. Having a backup ensures you’re not stuck if something breaks.

Staying Informed is Necessary

Technology moves fast and manufacturers usually provide updates and important notices.

• Subscribe to newsletters or update notifications from Intel, AMD, or your motherboard brand.
• Check official support or download pages regularly for the latest drivers, patch notes, or bug fixes.

Bonus tip: Following trusted tech blogs or forums (like Tom’s Hardware or Reddit’s r/buildapc) can keep you in the loop on important driver news or known issues.

Common Queries

1. How to update CPU drivers Reddit

Answer:
On Reddit, users often suggest a few trusted methods:

• Use Windows Update or Device Manager.
• Download the latest drivers from Intel or AMD’s official website.
• For BIOS based updates, visit your motherboard manufacturer’s support page.
  Search or ask in subreddits like r/techsupport, r/pcmasterrace, or r/buildapc for personalized advice.

2. How to update CPU drivers Windows 11

Answer:
To update CPU drivers in Windows 11:

1. Windows Update:
   Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
2. Device Manager:
   Right click Start > Device Manager > Processors > Update Driver.
3. Manufacturer Website:
   Visit Intel or AMD and use their auto detect utilities.
4. BIOS Update (for CPU microcode updates):
   Find your motherboard’s model > visit its support page > download and follow BIOS update instructions.

3. How to update CPU drivers AMD

Answer:
To update AMD CPU drivers:

• Visit the AMD Drivers and Support page.
• Use the Auto-Detect tool or manually select your processor model (e.g., Ryzen series).
• Download and install the AMD Chipset Driver, which includes CPU related updates.

Tip: BIOS updates from your motherboard manufacturer may also contain CPU improvements for AMD chips.

4. How to update CPU drivers Intel

Answer:
To update Intel CPU drivers:

• Use the Intel Driver & Support Assistant (iDSA).
• Alternatively, go to the Intel Download Center and search by processor name or chipset.

Note: Intel CPUs don’t have separate “CPU drivers” like GPUs updates often come via chipset drivers or BIOS.

5. How to update CPU drivers Windows 10

Answer:
The process is similar to Windows 11:

1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.
2. Use Device Manager > Processors > Right click > Update driver.
3. Download drivers directly from the CPU manufacturer’s website (Intel or AMD).
4. Update BIOS if needed (usually for microcode updates).

6. How to update CPU drivers Windows 7

Answer:
For Windows 7 (now legacy support):

• Open Device Manager > Processors > Update driver.
• Visit the Intel or AMD website for older drivers compatible with Windows 7.
• Use tools like Driver Booster for broader legacy support.
• If needed, update the BIOS from your motherboard’s support page.

Important: Windows 7 is end-of-life, so updates may be limited.

7. How to update Ryzen CPU drivers

Answer:

• Go to the AMD Ryzen Chipset Driver Page.
• Select your motherboard chipset (e.g., B550, X570) not just CPU name.
• Download and install the latest AMD Chipset Driver.
• Check for BIOS updates from your motherboard manufacturer for additional Ryzen CPU support.

8. AMD Drivers

Answer:
Find AMD drivers by:

• Visiting https://www.amd.com/en/support.
• Using the Auto-Detect tool or selecting product family and model.
• Downloading GPU drivers, CPU chipset drivers, and software utilities like Ryzen Master.

Pro Tip: Always uninstall old drivers (using DDU if necessary) before installing new ones for clean results.

Conclusion: Keep Your CPU Running at Its Best

Outdated CPU drivers might seem like a small issue but they can cause big headaches, from random system glitches to sluggish performance. Luckily, keeping them updated isn’t complicated once you know the steps.

Now it’s your turn, take a few minutes to check your CPU drivers today. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in how your computer runs.

Need help checking your driver version or navigating a BIOS update? Drop your question in the comments or explore our other CPU optimization guides.