Forum Discussion
Windows keeps reinstalling a driver that I intentionally removed
Windows Update is persistently reinstalling a specific driver that I have deliberately removed from my system, despite my attempts to block it through device installation settings and driver exclusion policies. I need to understand why Windows ignores my preferences and forces this driver back onto my PC, and what effective method can permanently prevent it from being reinstalled again.
3 Replies
Windows may be reinstalling the driver from its local Driver Store rather than downloading it again. Removing the device does not always remove the saved driver package.
Try this:
- Disconnect the internet.
- Open Device Manager and uninstall the affected device.
- Check Attempt to remove the driver for this device or Delete the driver software, if shown.
- Restart while still offline.
- Install the driver version you want, then reconnect the internet.
If Roll Back Driver is available under the device’s Driver tab, use that first. Windows is less likely to reinstall the same version after a rollback.
If the unwanted driver appears only after reconnecting, it is coming from Windows Update. Use Microsoft’s Show or hide updates troubleshooter to hide that specific driver update.
No method is guaranteed to survive a major Windows upgrade or system reset, and a newer version of the driver may need to be hidden separately.
Instead of blocking all driver updates (which some users will suggest), you can block a specific HWID instance from getting any updates using a Group Policy.
https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/146562-prevent-windows-update-updating-specific-device-driver.html
You can still install a driver manually or using a driver installer with the restriction in place, as the policy only works to stop Windows Update.
Which driver installed install and when?
