When I download updated drivers from Dell they install in the documents folder. Shouldn't they go to the system folder and what is so special about the system folder? Are things more easily found there? Is the x86 folder for 32 bit?
When you say "They install to the documents folder", do you perhaps mean that the file you download is saved there? Or after you downloaded and run the driver installer, the files are extracted to Documents for installation? Because normally when you download a driver, it should be in either ZIP, RAR for EXE format that will be saved wherever you choose.
If you extract or run the downloaded file, and files are placed into the same folder containing the original download, then you must still manually run the appropriate SETUP or INSTALL file in order to actually install the drivers. The manner in which this happens depends upon the driver developers. Sometimes, the downloaded file is an EXE that will automatically extract the drivers files and begin the installation.
The system folders are used for the purpose as the name suggests: Files that are required by the system are stored there.
And yes, the x86 folder "C:\Program Files (x86)" is used for 32-bit applications, but is present only in x64 versions of Windows.
Yes when you download drivers from Dell it says they will be installed in the documents folder so the file names are just sitting in there. Is there anything magical about the system folder? Is it any different than any other folder? Are files more recognized in there?
Only the download should be "installed" to the documents folder, or to whichever folder you choose. Can you set your Documents folder to Details View, then post a screenshot (use the Snipping Tool), so that I can see what you are seeing?
Last edited by Dzomlija; 07 Mar 2010 at 22:25. Reason: Added link for how to post screenshots
I tried to use the snip tool but couldn't do it. The 2 downloaded driver files are sitting in the document folder. One ends with .exe and the other ends with .zip.
Ok. If you are sure the files are safe, and come from Dell, then you need to now install the drivers.
The EXE download should be simple enough. Just double click it to run the file. If it isan auto installer, the program will run and install the driver to the right places, and will likely require a reboot. If it is a self-extractor, note the folder into which the files will be placed. There should then be a SETUP.EXE or INSTALL.EXE that must be run to install the driver.
The ZIP must first be extracted before you can use the driver files that it contains. Right-click on the file for extraction options.
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