Software that lets a computer run hardware or a device (for example, to use a printer, you need the right printer driver).

Note the name and model carefully, since printer names are often similar.

You can use the installation CD included with your printer. Also, you can try the installation CD for Microsoft Windows since it has drivers for many popular printers.

You can download the driver from the printer manufacturerÆs Web site. Generally, these are free of charge, found in the Web site's product support or download area.

If you get a printer driver by downloading, make sure you do the following:

• Get the right driver version for your Windows operating system and version. For example, if you have a Windows 2000 computer, get a Windows 2000 printer driver for your printer. While some manufacturers provide drivers intended for a variety of Windows operating systems, other manufacturers make versions for specific Windows versions.

• Get the latest driver version available. For example, if more than one version is available, check the version number or the release date.

• If available, get a WHQL-certified version. At Microsoft Corporation, the WHQL service tests and verifies WHQL-certified drivers for compatibility with Windows. WHQL is an abbreviation for Windows Hardware Quality Labs.

If you have little or no experience installing printer drivers, you might want to do the following:

• Get the driver installer. Some manufacturers provide you with a choice of the driver with installer or just the driver itself. A driver installer is a program you can run that simplifies driver installation. While a driver installer typically might take more time to download, it is usually worthwhile to get it.

If you are using Microsoft Windows XP, some manufacturers' Web sites can simultaneously download and install the printer driver, with no further steps on your part. If you find that you can do this with your printer, complete the installation and then continue with the steps in Share the printer from the local computer.

For the Web addresses of several popular printer manufacturers, see Contact manufacturers.