When to look for a driver yourself
Even with automatic updates, you are still dependent on, to some extent, the manufacturers of your hardware. They are responsible for providing drivers to Microsoft to test and then distribute through Windows Update to millions of Windows Vista users worldwide. But not all manufacturers provide Microsoft with updated drivers, and some are slow to release them.
If your hardware isn't working and you haven't received drivers through Windows Update, it's time to look for drivers on your own. First try installing any software that came with the device. If that doesn't work, then check the manufacturer's website.