Monitor drivers vs. video adapter drivers: How are they
different and which do I need? Monitor drivers are specific to
the monitor. They are usually text files that tell the operating
system what the monitor is and what it is capable of. They are
not required for the monitor to function. Video adapter drivers
Your video adapter lets your computer communicate with a monitor
by sending images, text, graphics, and other information. Better
video adapters provide higher-quality images on your screen, but
the quality of your monitor plays a large role as well. For
example, a monochrome monitor cannot display colors no matter
how powerful the video adapter is. A video driver is a file that
allows your operating system to work with your video adapter.
Each video adapter requires a specific video driver. When you
update your video adapter, your operating system will provide a
list and let you pick the appropriate video driver for it. If
you do not see the video driver for your adapter in the list,
contact the manufac