Third-party software that scan and updates your computer drivers. In opposition to the claims, The software is not made or approved by Microsoft or technology manufacturers like Intel. The driver software does distribute genuine drivers from the original hardware manufacturers. And this is how they claim credibility and gain your attention ad trust.
However, “computers” including laptops, are a combination of cooperating parts from different manufacturers. For example, the CPU, network, and graphics technology may be supplied by three different specialist manufacturers. They select the parts to work together. The parts are no longer working individually. Rather, they are working together as a system. Therefore, updating your drivers using anything other than those recommended by the computer brand (Dell, HP or Lenovo) could cause the system to fail.
All MSP service providers install software to patch (update) the software running on your computer. This is done cautiously in accordance with guidelines from Microsoft (for Windows devices). The patches are ranked and only applied when required and/or based on acceptable risk. This is because any change can cause upsets. Drivers are the highest risk.
Using third party software to update your drivers, like Driver Easy, circumvents industry recommendation from Microsoft and original manufacturers. Using the software bypasses the stringent processes and assessment we used to manage client devices.
In relation to Driver Easy, read the arguments in this Microsoft community article. Consider whether using Driver Easy is part of a robust cybersecurity plan for your organisation.
These are our comments:
- All third-party driver update software is not approved by Microsoft or hardware manufacturers. Our own endpoint patch management is also third-party. However, our software uses manufacturer’s methods, best-in-class approaches, fully monitored, and we have procedures in place to reduce risk.
- Driver Easy is typically installed by independent members of staff. Allowing individuals in an organisation to install unapproved software to manage critical components significantly risks the stability and security of your entire system. In turn, this risks productivity, profit and revenue.
- The drivers may be genuine, but that does not mean they are approved for your system. Microsoft’s updates are categorised as critical, automatic or optional. Windows rank critical or automatic updates highest. Microsoft, Dell, Lenovo, HP and MSP software (like ours) work cooperatively to help lower risk.
- Although it may seem counterintuitive, your goal is not to have the most recent drivers for your hardware. Your goal should be to have a cohesively working and reliable device. Updating individual component drivers presents a significant risk to the stability and security of your system. We only recommend putting you at risk when essential, or for added security.