optimal way of installing drivers

[maximusbad]

what is the best way you should install drivers, example the chipset drivers, anti-virus, video drivers, dx9, etc. What would be the best way to configure the system properly.

[Thrax]

From a fresh system, I install in this order (Have everything downloaded first):

1. Chipset
2. DirectX
3. Video
4. Service pack (If it's not slipstreamed)
5. Antivirus
6. Anything else
7. Windows update

[Tex]

I do the video after chipset but everything else is same as thrax

Tex

[keto]

I do the service pack right after the OS, Windows updates too providing I have the LAN driver installed - my thought being that this completes the OS. Then chipset, DX, video and, where possible, sound last as my personal history with sound drivers is more or less an ongoing battle for stability.

[floppybootstomp]

Just like Thrax. Some video drivers won't install without seeing at least DX9a.

If you're just upgrading drivers, you could go to the bother of uninstalling all the old ones, but if you're using XP you could be lazy and just install them. The old drivers will then be 'rolled back' by XP and stored.

Myself, I usually uninstall the old ones first.