Alex Ruben
How to Resolve the “Windows Can’t Verify the Publisher of This Driver Software” Error
If you’ve encountered the frustrating “Windows can’t verify the publisher of this driver software” error while trying to install drivers, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through the steps to resolve this issue effectively, allowing you to install your drivers without further complications. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or 11 on a PC, desktop, or laptop, these steps are designed for you.
Before proceeding, ensure that you have administrative access on your computer, as some of the steps involve modifying system settings. This guide will help you not only fix the verification error but also bypass driver signature enforcement and install unsigned drivers.
Step 1: Access the Local Group Policy Editor
To start, you need to open the Local Group Policy Editor. Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog. Type gpedit.msc and hit Enter. This will launch the Group Policy Editor, which allows you to modify various system settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Driver Installation Settings
In the Local Group Policy Editor, you’ll need to navigate to the driver installation settings. Follow these steps:
- Expand the User Configuration section.
- Next, expand Administrative Templates.
- Now, expand System.
- Look for Driver Installation in the list and click on it.
Step 3: Modify the Code Signing for Driver Packages Setting
Once in the Driver Installation section, you will see several settings appear on the right side. Locate the setting labeled Code signing for driver packages. Double-click on it to open the configuration window.
In the configuration window, set the option to Enabled and then select Ignore from the dropdown menu. This change will allow Windows to bypass driver signature verification.
Click OK to save your changes.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
To apply the changes you just made, restart your computer. This step is crucial as it ensures that your new settings take effect. After your system reboots, you should no longer encounter the “Windows can’t verify the publisher of this driver software” error when installing drivers.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, consider the following:
- Ensure you are downloading drivers from trusted sources to avoid security risks.
- Check if your Windows is up to date by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- If you are unsure about unsigned drivers, consider using signed versions whenever possible to maintain system integrity.
Conclusion
By following this guide, you should now be able to resolve the “Windows can’t verify the publisher of this driver software” error effectively. This not only helps in installing drivers successfully but also enhances your overall experience when managing hardware on your Windows system. For further assistance or advanced troubleshooting, consider exploring additional guides tailored to driver management and system configuration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I still see the error after following these steps?
If the error persists, double-check the driver source for authenticity and ensure your system settings are correctly applied. You may also try reinstalling the driver or using a different version of the driver.
Can I revert the changes made in Group Policy Editor?
Yes, you can revert the settings in the Group Policy Editor by following the same steps and setting the Code signing for driver packages option back to Not Configured or Disabled.
Is it safe to install unsigned drivers?
Installing unsigned drivers can pose security risks as they have not been verified by Microsoft. Always ensure that the source of the driver is trustworthy before proceeding.