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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.

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We need exact windows version to be helpful. In my opinion, the whole idea is basically asking for trouble, but I hope that someone will be able to provide better answer. – AndrejaKo Mar 24 '11 at 23:08
what versions of windows are you working with? Are you just wanting to isntall a newer Windows version (ie Vista or 7) on to an old computer with old windows (95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP etc)? – Xantec Mar 24 '11 at 23:10
it's windows xp – Gajet Mar 24 '11 at 23:15
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3 Answers

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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.

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i also tried that but it didn't work either since installing a driver needs configuration file (*.ini) but there is no such file in system32 or system32\drivers folder – Gajet Mar 25 '11 at 20:04
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This is unlikely to work as many driver installers use scripted behavior to install themselves onto a system. (Eg; graphics drivers)

The best course of action is to install the network driver and download them from the manufacturer's web site. Alternatively, put them on a USB key and install them.

Note: It probably is even less likely to work if you are switching Windows versions and it flat out won't work if you go from 32 to 64 bit or vice versa.

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the main problem is that i can't find any details about the hardware installed in computer, it's one of my relatives computer and they themselves don't know details about the parts – Gajet Mar 24 '11 at 23:16
If you manage to just get it on the internet, Windows Update should be able to get the majority. – Matt Mar 24 '11 at 23:30
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there's a handful of applications that do that - i've messed with driverbackup! before and it should do what you need.

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