The Intel HD Graphics 520 is an integrated graphics processing unit (GPU) found in many laptops and some desktop computers, especially those built around 6th generation Intel Core processors (Skylake). While not a powerhouse for demanding modern games, it’s perfectly adequate for everyday tasks, video playback, and some lighter gaming. Keeping your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver updated is crucial for optimal performance, compatibility with new software, and security. Outdated drivers can lead to various problems, including graphical glitches, system instability, and even security vulnerabilities. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to update your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver, ensuring your system runs smoothly and securely.
Why Is Updating Your Intel HD Graphics 520 Driver Important?
Updating your graphics driver is not merely a routine task; it’s a vital practice for maintaining the overall health and performance of your computer. The driver acts as a bridge between your operating system and the graphics hardware. When this bridge is weak or outdated, communication falters, leading to a multitude of issues.
Improved Performance: New driver versions often include optimizations that can enhance the performance of your Intel HD Graphics 520. This can translate to smoother video playback, faster rendering times in applications, and slightly improved frame rates in games. These improvements are often tailored to specific applications or games, making updates particularly important if you use specific software frequently.
Enhanced Compatibility: Software developers continually update their applications and games to take advantage of the latest hardware and software features. Keeping your graphics driver updated ensures compatibility with these newer versions, preventing crashes, graphical errors, and other compatibility-related issues.
Bug Fixes: Like any software, graphics drivers can contain bugs. These bugs can manifest as graphical glitches, system crashes, or other unexpected behavior. Driver updates often include fixes for these bugs, improving the overall stability and reliability of your system.
Security Enhancements: Security vulnerabilities are discovered regularly in software, including graphics drivers. Manufacturers release driver updates to address these vulnerabilities, protecting your system from potential security threats. Keeping your driver updated is an essential part of maintaining a secure computing environment.
Methods For Updating Your Intel HD Graphics 520 Driver
There are several methods you can use to update your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best approach for you will depend on your technical expertise and preferences. We will explore three primary methods: automatic updates via Windows Update, manual downloads from the Intel website, and using the Intel Driver & Support Assistant (IDSA) tool.
Updating Via Windows Update
Windows Update is the easiest and most convenient way to update your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver. Windows automatically checks for updates and installs them in the background, ensuring that your system is always running with the latest drivers. While convenient, this method might not always provide the absolute newest driver version immediately upon release.
How to Update Using Windows Update:
- Click the Start button and go to Settings (the gear icon).
- Click on “Update & Security”.
- In the Windows Update section, click the “Check for updates” button.
- Windows will automatically search for and install any available updates, including driver updates for your Intel HD Graphics 520.
- After the updates are installed, you may need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Considerations when using Windows Update:
While Windows Update is generally reliable, it’s important to acknowledge that sometimes it might not deliver the most up-to-date drivers instantly. The release cycle for drivers on Windows Update can sometimes lag behind the official release from Intel. However, for most users, the convenience and simplicity of this method outweigh the potential for a slight delay in receiving the newest driver. It’s also a good safeguard to ensure that other critical system updates are installed, promoting overall system stability.
Manually Downloading From The Intel Website
For those who prefer more control over the update process, manually downloading the driver from the Intel website is a great option. This method allows you to specifically choose which driver version you want to install and provides more detailed information about the driver.
Steps to Manually Download and Install the Driver:
- Identify Your System: First, you need to know the exact model of your CPU to find the correct driver. For example, Intel Core i5-6200U includes the Intel HD Graphics 520.
- Visit the Intel Download Center: Go to the official Intel Download Center website. You can easily find it by searching “Intel Download Center” on any search engine.
- Search for the Driver: In the search bar, type “Intel HD Graphics 520 driver”. Filter the results to ensure you are seeing drivers compatible with your operating system (e.g., Windows 10 64-bit, Windows 11 64-bit).
- Download the Correct Driver: From the search results, select the latest driver version that is compatible with your operating system. Make sure to download the correct type of file – usually an executable (.exe) file.
- Run the Installer: Once the download is complete, locate the downloaded file and double-click it to run the installer.
- Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The installer will guide you through the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. You may need to accept a license agreement and choose an installation directory.
- Restart Your Computer: After the installation is complete, restart your computer to ensure that the new driver is properly loaded.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Manually downloading the driver gives you the most control. You choose the specific version and have access to release notes detailing changes. However, it also requires you to know your system specifications and manually manage the installation. Incorrect driver installation can sometimes lead to issues, though this is rare.
Using The Intel Driver & Support Assistant (IDSA)
The Intel Driver & Support Assistant (IDSA) is a tool provided by Intel that automatically scans your system for available driver updates, including updates for your Intel HD Graphics 520. It simplifies the update process by identifying the correct drivers for your system and installing them automatically.
How to Use the Intel Driver & Support Assistant:
- Download the IDSA: Go to the Intel website and search for “Intel Driver & Support Assistant”. Download the tool and install it on your computer.
- Run the IDSA: After the installation is complete, run the Intel Driver & Support Assistant. It will automatically scan your system for available updates.
- Identify Driver Updates: The IDSA will display a list of available driver updates, including updates for your Intel HD Graphics 520.
- Install the Updates: Select the updates you want to install and click the “Download and Install” button. The IDSA will automatically download and install the updates.
- Restart Your Computer: After the installation is complete, restart your computer to ensure that the new driver is properly loaded.
Benefits of using IDSA:
The IDSA tool is a balance between the automated approach of Windows Update and the manual method of downloading from the Intel website. It offers convenience by automatically detecting applicable updates while also providing more direct access to the latest Intel drivers. This tool is great for users who want a streamlined experience without completely relinquishing control.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Updating your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver is usually a straightforward process, but sometimes issues can arise. Here are some common problems and their solutions.
Driver Installation Failure:
If the driver installation fails, it could be due to several reasons. One possibility is that you downloaded the wrong driver for your operating system. Double-check that you have selected the correct driver version for your version of Windows (e.g., Windows 10 64-bit). Another potential cause is conflicting software. Try temporarily disabling any antivirus software or other security programs during the installation process. As a last resort, you can try performing a clean boot of Windows before attempting the installation again.
Graphical Glitches or Artifacts:
If you experience graphical glitches or artifacts after updating the driver, it could indicate a problem with the new driver version. In this case, you can try rolling back to the previous driver version. To do this, open Device Manager, locate your Intel HD Graphics 520, right-click on it, and select “Properties”. Go to the “Driver” tab and click the “Roll Back Driver” button. If the “Roll Back Driver” button is greyed out, it means that there is no previous driver version available.
System Instability or Crashes:
If your system becomes unstable or crashes after updating the driver, it could be due to compatibility issues. Try uninstalling the new driver and reverting to the previous version or a known stable version. You can also try running a system file check to identify and repair any corrupted system files. To do this, open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.
“This Driver is Not Validated for This Computer” Error:
This error often occurs when the downloaded driver is not specifically certified for your computer model by the manufacturer (e.g., Dell, HP, Lenovo). While the driver might technically work, the manufacturer recommends using the drivers provided on their support website. To resolve this, visit the support website for your computer manufacturer, enter your computer’s model number, and download the graphics driver from their website. These drivers are customized for your specific hardware configuration.
Verifying The Driver Update
After updating your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver, it’s important to verify that the update was successful and that the correct driver version is installed.
How to Verify the Driver Version:
- Open Device Manager: Press the Windows key + X and select “Device Manager” from the menu.
- Expand Display Adapters: In Device Manager, expand the “Display adapters” section.
- Locate Your Intel HD Graphics 520: Find your Intel HD Graphics 520 in the list of display adapters.
- Check the Driver Version: Right-click on your Intel HD Graphics 520 and select “Properties”. Go to the “Driver” tab. The driver version will be displayed in the “Driver Version” field.
Compare the driver version displayed in Device Manager with the latest driver version available on the Intel website or the driver version that you intended to install. If the versions match, then the update was successful. If the versions don’t match, you may need to repeat the update process or troubleshoot any issues that may have occurred during the update.
Maintaining Optimal Graphics Performance
Beyond just updating the driver, several other factors can affect the performance of your Intel HD Graphics 520. Addressing these can help ensure that you’re getting the most out of your integrated graphics.
Adjusting Graphics Settings:
In many applications and games, you can adjust the graphics settings to optimize performance. Lowering the resolution, reducing the detail level, and disabling certain graphical effects can significantly improve performance, especially on integrated graphics. Experiment with different settings to find the right balance between visual quality and performance.
Closing Unnecessary Programs:
Running too many programs simultaneously can strain your system’s resources, including the graphics processor. Close any unnecessary programs that are running in the background to free up resources and improve performance.
Ensuring Adequate Cooling:
Overheating can significantly impact the performance of your Intel HD Graphics 520. Make sure that your computer’s cooling system is working properly and that the vents are not blocked by dust or other obstructions. Consider using a laptop cooling pad if you frequently use your laptop for demanding tasks.
Performing Regular Maintenance:
Regular maintenance tasks, such as cleaning up your hard drive, defragmenting your hard drive, and running a virus scan, can help keep your system running smoothly and improve overall performance.
Keeping your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver updated is a critical step in ensuring optimal performance, compatibility, and security. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily update your driver and keep your system running smoothly. Remember to choose the update method that best suits your needs and technical expertise, and don’t hesitate to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
Why Should I Update My Intel HD Graphics 520 Driver?
Updating your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver is crucial for maintaining optimal system performance and stability. Newer drivers often include performance enhancements, bug fixes, and security patches that can significantly improve your overall user experience. For instance, you might see smoother gameplay in games, faster rendering speeds in video editing software, and fewer system crashes or freezes.
Outdated drivers can lead to compatibility issues with newer software and games, resulting in graphical glitches, performance degradation, or even system instability. By keeping your drivers up-to-date, you ensure your system can properly utilize the capabilities of your Intel HD Graphics 520, delivering a more reliable and enjoyable computing experience. This also helps prevent potential security vulnerabilities that might be exploited by malicious software.
How Do I Find Out Which Version Of The Intel HD Graphics 520 Driver Is Currently Installed On My Computer?
To determine the current version of your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver, you’ll need to access the Device Manager. You can do this by searching for “Device Manager” in the Windows search bar and opening the application. Alternatively, you can right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager” from the menu.
Once Device Manager is open, expand the “Display adapters” section. You should see “Intel(R) HD Graphics 520” listed. Right-click on this entry and select “Properties.” In the Properties window, navigate to the “Driver” tab. Here, you will find the “Driver Version” displayed, which indicates the version of the Intel HD Graphics 520 driver currently installed on your system.
What Are The Different Methods For Updating My Intel HD Graphics 520 Driver?
There are several ways to update your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver, each with its own advantages. The most common methods include using Windows Update, downloading the driver directly from the Intel website, and utilizing the Intel Driver & Support Assistant (IDSA) tool. Windows Update automatically searches for and installs driver updates, but it may not always provide the latest versions immediately.
Downloading directly from Intel’s website offers the most control, allowing you to choose the specific driver version you want to install. The Intel Driver & Support Assistant is a dedicated tool that scans your system for compatible drivers and simplifies the download and installation process. Each method provides a means to ensure your driver is up to date, catering to different user preferences and levels of technical expertise.
What Is The Intel Driver & Support Assistant (IDSA) And How Can It Help?
The Intel Driver & Support Assistant (IDSA) is a utility provided by Intel that simplifies the process of updating your system’s drivers, including the Intel HD Graphics 520 driver. It automatically scans your computer’s hardware and software configuration to identify compatible drivers and updates that are available. This eliminates the need to manually search for and download the correct drivers, saving you time and effort.
The IDSA also provides a user-friendly interface that guides you through the installation process. It can automatically download and install the necessary drivers, or you can choose to download the drivers manually. This tool is particularly helpful for users who are not comfortable manually searching for and installing drivers, as it automates much of the process and ensures compatibility.
How Do I Update My Intel HD Graphics 520 Driver Using Windows Update?
Updating your Intel HD Graphics 520 driver through Windows Update is a straightforward process. First, open the Settings app by clicking the Start button and selecting the gear icon or searching for “Settings” in the Windows search bar. Then, navigate to “Update & Security” and select “Windows Update” in the left-hand menu.
Click the “Check for updates” button. Windows will then scan for available updates, including driver updates for your Intel HD Graphics 520. If an update is found, it will be downloaded and installed automatically. You may need to restart your computer to complete the installation process. Keep in mind that Windows Update might not always provide the very latest driver version, but it’s a convenient way to ensure you have relatively recent drivers installed.
What Should I Do If The Updated Driver Causes Problems With My Computer?
If an updated Intel HD Graphics 520 driver causes problems, such as graphical glitches, system instability, or performance issues, you can roll back to a previous driver version. To do this, open the Device Manager (as described earlier), expand “Display adapters,” right-click on “Intel(R) HD Graphics 520,” and select “Properties.”
In the Properties window, navigate to the “Driver” tab and click the “Roll Back Driver” button. Windows will then uninstall the current driver and reinstall the previous version. If the “Roll Back Driver” button is grayed out, it means there are no previously installed drivers to revert to. In this case, you might need to manually uninstall the problematic driver and install an older version downloaded from Intel’s website.
Where Can I Download The Latest Intel HD Graphics 520 Driver Directly From Intel?
You can download the latest Intel HD Graphics 520 driver directly from the Intel Download Center. To find the appropriate driver, visit the Intel Download Center website and use the search function. You can search for “Intel HD Graphics 520 driver” or filter by product family and operating system.
Ensure you download the driver specifically designed for your operating system version (e.g., Windows 10 64-bit, Windows 11 64-bit). Once you’ve located the correct driver, download the executable file and run it to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. It’s crucial to verify the compatibility of the downloaded driver with your system before proceeding with the installation.