how can I transfer old drivers to a new Windows installation?

I've just installed a new Windows software but I don't have any of the drivers needed for computer hardware, I've got all the files from old Windows drive and I'm asking if I can set the new installed Windows to use drivers installed in the old one?

I've already tried copying everything in drivers folder but Windows still can't recognize the drivers.

Solution 1:

I think I have an answer for you. At least a proposed solution that worked for me.

I didn't want to install all the extra software with the drivers, so I found that if you look at the "Driver Details" you will see a .sys name. Just copying that WILL NOT work. You need the .inf file as well which of course isn't stored there.

So if you go to C:\Windows\System32\DriverStore\FileRepository that is where all the needed information is stored. How you find what you need is by looking at the name of .sys (mentioned above), and then finding that same name or something very close to that.

For example:

A driver that has a system file of bthpan.sys (Bluetooth), so if you look in the FileRepository you will find a folder like this "bthpan.inf_amd64_neutral_024281c0e4e954e2" Notice that the first part matches the same name of the .sys, but has the .inf_.... If you open that folder up, bingo! There is your .sys, .inf, and any other necessary files matching the name of the .sys file.

Now you just need to copy that folder or files to a flash drive, and bring it to the computer that isn't working. Point the device to that folder, and it should install the driver without any issue.

Hope this is helpful!

Solution 2:

I wouldn't copy anything. I'd slave up the old drive, and as Windows prompts for drivers, point it to the OLD system32 folder (C:\WINDOWS\system32). At that point, usually it will be able to find everything it needs on its own. Copying is trouble 'cause you could overwrite newer drivers, plus you'll surely copy far more than you actually need, filling up your folder with unnecessary files.

Solution 3:

For anyone who's coming here in 2014: Just go to Device Manager, Other Devices, right click on whatever needs a driver and Browse my computer for driver software and choose the system32 folder from your old windows. Simple as that. You should be able to install all your drivers.