Saving drivers for re-format

stulaunch

I've reformatted o/s a few times. I always have a problem with network adapter drivers, meaning not being able to connect to internet to search for them. Everything else seems to go to plan ok.

I always seem to find them in the end on web with using another computer. But what is the easiest way to save drivers i wish to re-use? and is there a guide anywhere to do this?

Thanks

CHR15

There are loads of tools available to backup drivers

Quick google brings up this free one, never used it myself though.

http://sourceforge.net/projects/drvback/

Give it a try first though to make sure it saves them in a sensible format (i.e you don't need this software to reinstall it) otherwise you will be in the same pickle (or make sure you save the setup files for this software to).

stulaunch

Thanks CHR15

Its been a while since ive done it and i did try some free backup program but cant remember whick one and saved whatever to portable hard drive but always seem to struggle with installing drivers back. Probably need to know what the saved drivers should look like and exactly where they are saved, hence trying to read up on it while all is well.

esuhl

I have separate data and OS partitions. I save all the drivers on the data partition so that they are available for any subsequent re-installations (although if I have network access, I'll check to see if a more recent driver is available first).

If you're using XP, you can use nLite to create your own installation CD so that Windows will install with all the required drivers ready for you. nLite also allows you to pre-install Windows Updates and Service Packs, tweak various OS settings, etc.

I think there's a version for Vista called vLite (though I haven't used it). I'm not sure about Windows 7, but you could see if there is any information on the web about slipstreaming drivers into Windows 7...

W130SN

Have a look here http://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-windows-driver-backup.htm
I have used http://www.innovative-sol.com/drivermax/ it is ok.

http://www.thefreecountry.com/utilities/driverbackup.shtml

http://www.google.co.uk/search?client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&channel=s&hl=en&source=hp&q=driver+backup&meta=&btnG=Google+Search

KillerWatt

If I'm doing a format/install, then I simply get the latest drivers from the manufacturers website and save them beforehand.

pureorange

I'm a noob so can't post links, but Google "lifehacker driver backup" - they should help.

23n1th

W130SN wrote: »

Have a look here http://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-windows-driver-backup.htm
I have used http://www.innovative-sol.com/drivermax/ it is ok.

http://www.thefreecountry.com/utilities/driverbackup.shtml

http://www.google.co.uk/search?client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&channel=s&hl=en&source=hp&q=driver+backup&meta=&btnG=Google+Search

Drivermax is absolute !!!!! Dont use it, Double Driver is the best I've used, though it doesn't update them.