When buying a computer or laptop, we almost fall into the loop of understanding the technicalities of the whole system’s functions. So now, if you have stumbled upon this article looking for what are device drivers, then make sure you read this blog till the end.
To answer this question right away, device drivers are software programs that allow a particular device attached to the computer to interact. They make the whole computer functioning complete. But how? Here’s everything you need to know about these programs, from what are device drivers to how they work and their types.
In computing or programming language, device drivers are software programs that enable hardware devices to interact with the Operating System of the computer. So if you want to use output devices like a scanner or a printer, then these software applications make it possible for you to receive and send data to the computer and complete the communication loop.
Let’s understand what are device drivers comprehensively with an illustrative example. If you have a new printer and want to connect it to your PC, you will first connect it through wires. Then, on connection, you’ll be asked to install software that will enable you to establish a proper connection with the computer’s operating system. Only then can you start using the printer.
Device drivers are not compulsory for all peripheral devices. Many input and output devices, like mice, keyboards, monitors, etc., work with additional installation of device drivers as the latest operating systems already have standard drivers necessary for them to function. However, you might have to install drivers if there are more key features than usual.
How Do Device Drivers Work?
Device drivers work in the kernel OS layer as they need low-level access to carry out hardware operations. This environment in which they work is vital because this where they can function and connect hardware devices with the computer. They function through a computer bus that connects the device to the PC. Here, once the drivers are installed, they communicate with the device.
What Are Different Types Of Drivers?
Specifically, device drivers can be differentiated based on the specific device they belong to. Like wireless or Bluetooth devices have device drivers that are made to function in that domain or purpose. So, their entire framework is made to make that device function properly with the computer.
But if you want to understand precisely what is keyboard or mouse driver or what is headphone driver, then here are some brief explanations that can help you.
Keyboard Driver
Keyboard drivers are the software that creates an interface for your keyboard to interact with the computer. These groups of files act as a way to communicate with your computer’s operating system and send data that the user has typed using the keyboard. The majority of the latest keyboards come with plug-and-play interfaces where no additional device drivers are required.
But if your keyboard requires extra drivers, you can install it as explained in the manual guide of your keyboard. You simply have to visit the manufacturer’s website as linked in the guide or install the drivers from your Device Manager.
Mouse Driver
Mouse Driver is a software that enables the plugged-in mouse to interact with the computer. Like a keyboard driver, mouse drivers also serve as an interface that allows the mouse to communicate with the computer’s operating system. When connected and detected by the computer, most mice install drivers on their own automatically.
Headphone Driver
The simplest way to answer your question about what is headphone driver is by simply saying that it is a component that converts electrical energy into acoustic energy. This speaker part acts as a transducer, converting air movements (kinetic energy) into sound energy.
Conclusion
Through this article, hopefully, you have understood what are device drivers and how important the role they play in connecting any peripheral device to the computer. Over the years, many devices have evolved with the plug-and-play system. However, peripheral devices need drivers software, an interface for connection with the PC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 What devices might require device drivers?
Devices like keyboards, mice, gaming headsets might require additional device drivers to be installed to work properly.
Q.2 Can we work without device driver?
Device drivers are important for any hardware to interact with the computer. Without them, input and output devices cannot communicate with the computer’s system.
Q.3 Who creates device drivers?
Computer engineers or software engineers are responsible for developing device drivers for hardware or computers.
Q.4 Why do device drivers need to be installed?
Device drivers must be installed as they are required for a computer to work properly. Through them the computer interacts with all hardware.