Overview
Microsoft Windows is the Operating System (OS) that manages your computer and allows you to run applications, connect to the network, and interact with hardware such as printers, webcams, and monitors.
Drivers (device drivers) are small pieces of software that allow Windows to communicate with your hardware—such as audio devices, Wi-Fi adapters, Bluetooth, touchpads, and monitors. Without updated drivers, devices may not work correctly.
Regular updates are essential. Updating Windows, your device drivers, and running Dell Command | Update help keep your computer secure, stable, and functioning properly.
How To Update Your a Windows Computer
Windows Updates
Windows Updates fix security issues, improve performance, and resolve bugs in the operating system. You should install updates regularly to keep your computer running smoothly.
- Click the Start Menu and open Settings.
- Select Windows Update from the left-hand column.
- Click Check for updates.
- If updates are found, click Download and Install. Some updates may require your computer to restart.
- Restart your computer if prompted to complete installation.
Tip: If Windows updates repeatedly fail, reboot the computer and try again before contacting IT.
Dell Command | Update
Dell Command | Update installs Dell-specific firmware, BIOS updates, and hardware patches that Windows Update does not include. These updates commonly fix issues with docking stations, monitors, USB ports, batteries, fans, and system stability.
- Open the Start Menu and search for Dell Command | Update.
- Open the program and click Check or Check for Updates.
- A list of available updates will appear. Click Install.
- Allow all updates to complete. Important: BIOS and firmware updates may reboot your computer automatically.
- Restart your computer if prompted.
Tip: Do not shut down your computer during firmware or BIOS updates.
Driver Updates
On Dell computers, most driver updates are handled automatically through Dell Command | Update. These updates help resolve issues with audio, video, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, webcams, keyboards, and more.
If Dell Command | Update finds new drivers, follow the installation steps above. In some cases, Windows Update may also include additional driver fixes.
You should run both Windows Update and Dell Command | Update to ensure all drivers stay current.
Need Help?
If updating does not solve the issue, or if updates will not install, please contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance.
📞 641-628-7010
✉️ helpdesk@central.edu
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm
We are here to help with continued troubleshooting, hardware diagnostics, and advanced support.