Mouse Drivers

Working with your mouse drivers

Ever wonder why you can typically plug a basic mouse into your computer and begin using it right away without having to install the mouse drivers that came with it? Your computer's operating system has a set of pre-installed generic mouse drivers that it uses unless instructed otherwise.

While you can certainly use these basic drivers, it's a good idea to go ahead and install the mouse drivers that came with the mouse so that you have full control over the features of the mouse. For example, if you purchased an expensive programmable mouse with multiple buttons beyond the standard right and left buttons, installing the mouse drivers will allow you to use your device to its fullest capacity.

The mouse drivers tell your operating system all about your mouse and how they should interact with each other. By simply accepting the generic drivers, you may be able to point and click but you will miss out on the added functionality of your mouse.

Where to locate your mouse drivers updates

While you could install the mouse drivers that came on the installation CD, you're better off going to the Web site of the device's manufacturer instead. Once there, look for the driver download section which is usually found in the support area. Why download mouse drivers from the Web site over installing them from the disc? Because there's a good chance that your mouse's drivers have been updated since the product was manufactured.

Updated mouse drivers address issues that have been identified and resolved since the product first shipped. By going with the latest drivers, you will avoid potential problems – problems that have been resolved. In addition, updated mouse drivers often come with new features or incorporate new technology.

If you have an existing mouse that previously worked fine but now no longer functions, updating the driver is an excellent troubleshooting step. For example, there may be a conflict between your mouse and a new application or device. If the manufacturer has resolved this conflict and has issued an updated mouse driver, your troubles will be over.

Determining whether your mouse drivers require an update

First, is your mouse able to function well enough for pointing and clicking? If not, you may need to use another pointing device or navigation method (the tab, arrow keys, and shortcut keys) in order to navigate. If you have an alternate mouse that you can use temporarily, use it during your search.

Once you have updated device drivers, you must install them. Do this through Device Manager which is located in the Control Panel. Find the Mice and Other Pointing Devices category in the Device Manager's main list and search for your mouse. If you have unplugged it so that you can use a different mouse during troubleshooting, you will need to plug it back in so that it is listed.

If your mouse is functioning well enough to point and click, double-click the device in the list and go to the Driver tab. If not, use the arrow keys to highlight your mouse and then hit Enter. Now, use your tab key to cycle through the various areas of the Properties dialog box. Once you see a small outline around the word General in the tab area, use the right arrow key to open the Driver tab. Now, either click Update Driver or use the tab key to select it. Follow the prompts for updating the mouse drivers.

The better way to manage and update your device mouse drivers

DriverCure makes updating all device drivers, not just mouse drivers, much easier. Plus, it keeps your hardware current with the latest drivers through regular searches.

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Drivers

Mouse Drivers

Working with your mouse drivers

Where to locate your mouse drivers updates

Determining whether your mouse drivers require an update

The better way to manage and update your device mouse drivers