- Oct 14, 2014
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[Moderator Note: No specific problem posted. Moving thread from Windows 11 to Opinions and Experiences. More applicable category.]
iven that there are several options and sequences we can follow for driver installation after installing Windows, I, with an Asus Z790 setup, Intel CPU, and NVIDIA GPU, came across these options and thought it would be useful to share my experience. Below, I explain why I chose each step in the process. I’d love to hear your thoughts and, if possible, share the methodology and sequence you use.
"I didn't mention the MyAsus and Asus Driver Hub software as I believe they are more suited for laptops."
My methodology:
1. Install Windows (without internet connection)
Install Windows without connecting to the internet and do not run Windows Update before proceeding with the next steps. This prevents the system from automatically installing generic and old drivers (WHQL), ensuring full control over the correct versions.
2. Create a Restore Point Named "Before Drivers"
Create a restore point before installing any drivers. If something goes wrong, you can revert the system to a clean state without drivers.
3. Install the NVIDIA Driver
Install the latest NVIDIA driver to ensure that the display resolution and refresh rate (Hz) are properly configured before proceeding with other settings.
4. Install Essential Drivers from the Asus Support Website (Chipset, Network, Storage, and BIOS)
Download and install the essential drivers directly from the Asus website for a solid start
Download drivers from:
ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore - Asus Support
- Chipset
- Network (LAN/Wi-Fi)
- Storage (Intel RST, NVMe)
- BIOS (if necessary)
- Other motherboard-specific utilities (Optional)
5. Run Intel Driver & Support Assistant (Intel DSA)
After installing some Asus, Nvidia and Intel drivers, run Intel DSA to check for newer versions of Intel drivers. If necessary, it will replace the Asus drivers with updated Intel versions.
(In my understanding, this Intel software will correctly replace the drivers with newer versions).
6. Install Armoury Crate and Apply Only Necessary Updates
Install Armoury Crate, but do not use the driver installation section. Instead, use it only for:
- Configuring ARGB, mouse, keyboard, fans, and other Asus devices.
- Applying firmware updates and Asus utilities.
7. Run Windows Update
Run Windows Update to install system components and any missing drivers.
In theory, Windows Update should not overwrite drivers with older versions.
After updating, this time, check the Device Manager to confirm that no drivers are missing.
8. Run Snappy Driver (Optional)
If there are still missing drivers in Device Manager after the previous steps, use Snappy Driver (an open-source tool) to find and install the remaining drivers.
As a curiosity, I saw FPS tests in games where the drivers were installed as I described and others where only Windows Update (generic and WHQL drivers) was used. The difference was almost null!
My Conclusion
This sequence ensures that all drivers are properly updated without interference from generic Windows Update drivers.
Intel DSA guarantees that Intel drivers are always up to date.
Armoury Crate is used only for configurations and specific updates, preventing outdated Asus device firmware
Windows Update is executed only after the essential drivers are installed, minimizing the risk of unwanted replacements.
Thank you all for your attention. Best regards!!!
iven that there are several options and sequences we can follow for driver installation after installing Windows, I, with an Asus Z790 setup, Intel CPU, and NVIDIA GPU, came across these options and thought it would be useful to share my experience. Below, I explain why I chose each step in the process. I’d love to hear your thoughts and, if possible, share the methodology and sequence you use.
"I didn't mention the MyAsus and Asus Driver Hub software as I believe they are more suited for laptops."
My methodology:
1. Install Windows (without internet connection)
Install Windows without connecting to the internet and do not run Windows Update before proceeding with the next steps. This prevents the system from automatically installing generic and old drivers (WHQL), ensuring full control over the correct versions.
2. Create a Restore Point Named "Before Drivers"
Create a restore point before installing any drivers. If something goes wrong, you can revert the system to a clean state without drivers.
3. Install the NVIDIA Driver
Install the latest NVIDIA driver to ensure that the display resolution and refresh rate (Hz) are properly configured before proceeding with other settings.
4. Install Essential Drivers from the Asus Support Website (Chipset, Network, Storage, and BIOS)
Download and install the essential drivers directly from the Asus website for a solid start
Download drivers from:
ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore - Asus Support
- Chipset
- Network (LAN/Wi-Fi)
- Storage (Intel RST, NVMe)
- BIOS (if necessary)
- Other motherboard-specific utilities (Optional)
5. Run Intel Driver & Support Assistant (Intel DSA)
After installing some Asus, Nvidia and Intel drivers, run Intel DSA to check for newer versions of Intel drivers. If necessary, it will replace the Asus drivers with updated Intel versions.
(In my understanding, this Intel software will correctly replace the drivers with newer versions).
6. Install Armoury Crate and Apply Only Necessary Updates
Install Armoury Crate, but do not use the driver installation section. Instead, use it only for:
- Configuring ARGB, mouse, keyboard, fans, and other Asus devices.
- Applying firmware updates and Asus utilities.
7. Run Windows Update
Run Windows Update to install system components and any missing drivers.
In theory, Windows Update should not overwrite drivers with older versions.
After updating, this time, check the Device Manager to confirm that no drivers are missing.
8. Run Snappy Driver (Optional)
If there are still missing drivers in Device Manager after the previous steps, use Snappy Driver (an open-source tool) to find and install the remaining drivers.
As a curiosity, I saw FPS tests in games where the drivers were installed as I described and others where only Windows Update (generic and WHQL drivers) was used. The difference was almost null!
My Conclusion
This sequence ensures that all drivers are properly updated without interference from generic Windows Update drivers.
Intel DSA guarantees that Intel drivers are always up to date.
Armoury Crate is used only for configurations and specific updates, preventing outdated Asus device firmware
Windows Update is executed only after the essential drivers are installed, minimizing the risk of unwanted replacements.
Thank you all for your attention. Best regards!!!
Last edited by a moderator:
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