Windows 7: Required CD/DVD drive driver is missing during install

When I try to install Windows 7 on my Dell Inspiron 1545 laptop, I get to step number 4, but when I click install I get an error saying that a required CD/DVD drive driver is missing. I know that I have the most current drivers and that my DVD drive/driver is supposed to be supported by Windows 7. Do you know what the problem could be? Is it possible that my installation DVD is messed up?

Welcome to Seven Forums, cshett.

This has appeared a number of times, sometimes caused by a bad DVD burn. Here are some thoughts and links here that discuss it and how to solve it:

1. Boot and run install from a USB memory stick. Here's a good tutorial on how to make a bootable USB drive - USB Windows 7 Installation Key Drive - Create

2. Re-burn DVD at slowest speed.

3. Check the assignment of the DVD drive. Don't use "cable select" jumper setup, switch from master to slave for the reader (or vice-versa)

4. Try Microsoft KB solution 314060 - Your CD drive or DVD drive is missing or is not recognized by Windows or other programs

5. Get latest drivers for your IDE drives

Links:

Required CD/DVD driver is missing

Missing CD/DVD Driver Workaround that works!

I think I figured it out. On my Eee PC 1018p NetBook, I tried doing all the mentioned methods and this is what orked:

Use the USB 2.0 slots instead of the USB 3.0!

It was that simple, I am using the USB key method mentioned everywhere, but a USB CD drive should work as well.

Good Luck!