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Thread: Computer Drivers

  1. #1
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    Computer Drivers

    Do you update your computer drivers?

    If so, what results do you get?

    Thanks!

  2. #2
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    I always keep computers current...and at this point, it's a lot easier than in the "good old days" since the process is generally automated unless you have something unusual. Staying current not only insures that things function correctly, it sometimes adds features and keeps things more secure.

    The exception might be a computer that's used for a dedicated purpose, such as machine control, and it doesn't have any Internet connection to raise worries about security. A static configuration can be safer in that respect.
    --

    The most expensive tool is the one you buy "cheaply" and often...

  3. #3
    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Becker View Post
    ... and keeps things more secure.
    ...
    ^+1 - Security is a never-ending game of leap frog (hackers find an exploit, software developers patch it >> rinse/repeat). Software updates and patching, whether of drivers or of available software versions, is a good way to reduce your exposure. Most of the time it's free, and it is becoming more important as the IoT explodes. The hack-able 'surface area' of our lives is expanding with it. You don't need to live in a cave with pine knot lanterns - just get latest updates for your PC/tablet/etc..

    When is the last time anyone updated their Adobe Reader...??? Black-hats can deliver malware in a PDF. >>>> Update!!!

  4. #4
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    I update drivers, but very seldom from Microsoft. I go to the maker of the hardware - graphics card, sound card, etc - and get them from there.
    Grant
    Ottawa ON

  5. #5
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    I keep getting a popup concerning updating my computer drivers. I might do it, but they want money and I don't know them.

  6. #6
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    Quote Originally Posted by lowell holmes View Post
    I keep getting a popup concerning updating my computer drivers. I might do it, but they want money and I don't know them.
    Thanks for mentioning that. It's an ad. It doesn't mean you actually have out of date drivers. You don't need to pay someone to do this and very likely, there may be something nefarious about clicking on that link!
    --

    The most expensive tool is the one you buy "cheaply" and often...

  7. #7
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    Quote Originally Posted by lowell holmes View Post
    I keep getting a popup concerning updating my computer drivers. I might do it, but they want money and I don't know them.
    I would run a malware detection program and make sure my computer hasn't been contaminated. Then I would ignore the pop up it is most likely and advertisement.
    Lee Schierer
    USNA '71
    Go Navy!

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  8. #8
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    Quote Originally Posted by lowell holmes View Post
    I keep getting a popup concerning updating my computer drivers. I might do it, but they want money and I don't know them.
    Probably because you have an automated driver update program installed. Not by your own doing, but because you installed something that the updater was riding in on the install.
    Always read those little check boxes when you install something. Usually, the default is to install them, such as a Yahoo search browser add-on, driver updaters, etc.
    Find that program and un-install it.
    Never, under any circumstances, consume a laxative and sleeping pill, on the same night

  9. #9
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    Quote Originally Posted by Malcolm McLeod View Post
    When is the last time anyone updated their Adobe Reader...??? Black-hats can deliver malware in a PDF. >>>> Update!!!
    Or use something besides Adobe reader. Adobe flash & reader have been referred to as "the screen door to the internet" IOW lots and lots of holes.

  10. #10
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    I have not used Adobe Reader in more years than I can remember. As for Flash, I use it because many web sites still require it, but it is updated so often, it's hard to keep up. Thankfully, it will be gone soon.
    Grant
    Ottawa ON

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