How to Install New Device on Windows

Installing a new device, whether it's Plug and Play or non-Plug and Play, typically involves up to three steps:

1. Connecting to your computer.
2. Loading the appropriate device drivers. If your device is Plug and Play, this step may not be necessary.
3. Configuring device properties and settings. If your device is Plug and Play, this step may not be necessary.

Whether your device is Plug and Play or non-Plug and Play, you should follow the device manufacturer's installation instructions to ensure that it functions properly. This may require you to shut down and unplug your computer, and then connect the device to the appropriate port or insert it into the appropriate slot.

If the device does not automatically work, it is non-Plug and Play, or it is a necessary startup device like the hard disk, you may have to restart your computer. Windows then attempts to detect your new device.

If Windows does not successfully find your new hardware, you must use the Add Hardware Wizard in Control Panel to tell Windows what type of device you are installing. The Add Hardware Wizard may ask you to insert media (such as a compact disc or floppy disk) if any were provided with the device. The Add Hardware Wizard is primarily used for installing non-Plug and Play devices.

After Windows detects the device, or you identify the device using the Add Hardware Wizard, Windows tries to find and install the correct driver for the device.

• First, Windows searches for the driver on your computer's hard disk and on the device manufacturer's floppy disk or compact disc, if one is inserted into a disk drive. If the driver is found in either of these places, Windows installs it.
• If Windows doesn't find a driver, and your computer is connected to the Internet, Windows searches for one on the Microsoft Web site. For the latest updates, including security fixes, service packs, new Help files, and device drivers, see Windows Update in Help and Support Center. If the driver is found on the Windows Update site, Windows copies and installs it onto your computer. If your computer is not connected to the Internet, Windows displays a message prompting you to connect to the Internet.
• If Windows cannot find the driver on the Windows Update site, the Found New Hardware Wizard will be displayed and will prompt you to insert any media (such as compact discs or floppy disks) that were provided with the device. If the driver is located there, Windows installs it onto your computer.