Hi, I have a custom desktop, but I do know the parts I used.
Generally, which drivers are necessary to install after a reformat?
I know that graphics card and sound card is a must, but what else? I used a program like DriverMax before, and it provided me with upgrades that I didn't know about. Is a software like that recommended or is there anything better?
You can use a few free software programs that will tell you exactly what hardware you have. Then you can go to each vendor and download the appropriate driver.
Cpuz ... CPUID - System & hardware benchmark, monitoring, reporting
speecy ... Speccy - System Information - Free Download
Just run windows update ( fully ) then check device manager for any drivers you need to get.
Then go to the manufacturers website for the driver and or software.
Driver programs are garbage, there is no need for them.
As you are using Company software have a word with the Company IT Administrator.
Are you unaware that WIn7 is the first driver-complete OS in the installer, quickly updated via WIndows Updates after enabling Automatically deliver drivers via Windows Update (Step 3)?
After all Important and Optional Updates are installed in several rounds with required reboots, any drivers still missing can be imported from the Support Downloads webpage for your model PC or device.
Trace unknown devices with Hardware Identification.
Incidentally it's called a Reinstall. Formatting is one insignificant step which would handle itself even if you forget it. Clean Install Windows 7
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