Before reinstalling Windows, export all currently installed third-party drivers. This saves you from hunting down obscure drivers later, especially for older hardware or specific laptop models.

The Fix

dism /online /export-driver /destination:C:\DriversBackup

Why it works

  • The dism (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) command with the /export-driver switch instructs Windows to copy all third-party drivers into the specified destination folder.

Verify

dir C:\DriversBackup
  • A directory listing should show multiple subfolders, each containing .inf, .sys, and other driver files.

Notes

  • Requires Administrator privileges.
  • The C:\DriversBackup folder must exist or DISM will create it.
  • Only exports third-party drivers; built-in Microsoft drivers are excluded.
  • After reinstallation, you can use Device Manager's "Update driver" > "Browse my computer for drivers" and point it to this backup folder.

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