For optimal performance, computers rely on the right drivers to communicate effectively with their hardware components. By default, Windows 11 and 10 are programmed to handle these drivers for you, automatically sourcing and updating them via Windows Update. This process ensures that even after uninstalling a driver, Windows will quickly replace it upon the next system restart. However, there might be instances where users want to retain specific driver versions without Windows replacing them. Fortunately, there’s a solution: by tweaking the device installation settings, one can block Windows from auto-updating these drivers. This guide from risewindows will walk you through the steps to modify these settings using either the System Properties or the Registry Editor.
What is Device Installation Settings?
Device Installation Settings in Windows allows users to specify how the system deals with hardware drivers. By adjusting these settings, one can determine whether Windows should automatically search and download the best drivers or if they’d prefer to do it manually. This feature gives users greater control over the drivers installed on their system, ensuring compatibility and preventing unforeseen software clashes.
How to Change Device Installation Settings using System Properties?
These steps will alter device installation settings via System Properties:-
Step 1. Open the System Properties window.
To do that, press the Windows + R keyboard shortcut to bring up the Run dialog box. Next, type sysdm.cpl in the Run box and hit the Enter key on the keyboard.
Step 2. Switch to the Hardware tab in the “System Properties” window.
Step 3. Select the Device Installation Settings button.
Step 4. When you’re done, a pop-up dialog will ask whether you want to automatically download manufacturers’ apps and custom icons available for your devices. Select the No (your device might not work as expected) option.
Step 5. Pick Save Changes.
Step 6. Then, click on the OK.
Windows 11 or 10 will now turn off automatic driver installation on your PC after you complete the above steps.
How to Change Device Installation Settings from Windows 11 or 10 Registry Editor?
Use these steps to alter device installation settings using Windows 11 or 10 Registry Editor:-
Step 1. Open Registry Editor.
Step 2. Navigate to the following key in the left sidebar of Registry Editor:-
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Device Metadata
Step 3. Double-click on the PreventDeviceMetadataFromNetwork REG_DWORD on the right side of the “Device Metadata” folder.
Step 4. Set the “Value data” to 1.
Step 5. Pick OK.
Your Windows 11 or 10 will no longer automatically download and install the latest device drivers after you complete the above steps.
Conclusion
For those wanting more control over driver installations on Windows 11 or 10, the operating system provides options to alter device installation settings. Whether one chooses to make changes via System Properties or the Registry Editor, these methods effectively block Windows from automatically updating specific drivers. By following the steps outlined by risewindows, users can ensure that their desired driver versions remain intact, safeguarding them from potential compatibility issues or software clashes.
