# iolo Updater

[View HTML page](https://find-your-software.com/iolo/updater/)

Check Windows applications and device drivers for updates, schedule maintenance and back up drivers before changes.

## Review driver and application updates in one place

iolo Updater checks a Windows PC for outdated software and device drivers, then presents recommended updates for review. It combines application maintenance and driver updating in a single tool.

Start with the programs and devices you use regularly. Review each proposed change against your workflow, especially when an application depends on plug-ins or a particular version.

## Choose individual updates or a scheduled routine

You can select updates manually or schedule scans and downloads. Automated updating helps with routine maintenance, while manual selection gives you a chance to review changes before installing them.

Choose a time when you can save work and allow an application to close or a device to restart if necessary. After updating, check the functions you rely on before returning to a longer task.

## Keep selected programs and drivers on the Ignore List

The Ignore List lets you exclude software or drivers from future scan results and updates. Separate program and driver lists help you review what you have chosen to hold back.

Use exclusions when a specific version is needed for an established workflow. Revisit that decision periodically so an old compatibility exception does not become a forgotten maintenance gap.

## Back up drivers before making changes

iolo Updater provides driver backup and restore controls. Back up selected drivers or the existing driver set before installing replacements; the Restore tab lets you select an available earlier driver version.

This backup concerns drivers, rather than all your documents, applications and settings. For independent copies of important files, see our guide to [backing up files](https://find-your-software.com/solutions/how-to-backup-files.html).

## Check the result rather than assuming every issue is fixed

Update recommendations depend on the tool's supported catalog. A newer version is not a guarantee of better performance or compatibility with every device, project or extension.

If a device behaves differently after an update, note the driver involved and review the available recovery option. Keep Windows Update and your regular security and backup routines in place alongside third-party updating.

## Compare tools by the maintenance task

For Windows cleanup and broader maintenance, explore [iolo System Mechanic](https://find-your-software.com/iolo/system-mechanic/). For alternatives focused on application updates or device drivers, see [IObit Software Updater](https://find-your-software.com/iobit/software-updater/) and [Ashampoo Driver Updater](https://find-your-software.com/ashampoo/driver-updater/).

## Compare application and driver update workflows

- [iolo Updater vs CCleaner Professional](https://find-your-software.com/solutions/iolo-updater-vs-ccleaner-professional.html)
- [iolo Updater vs Nero TuneItUp PRO](https://find-your-software.com/solutions/iolo-updater-vs-nero-tuneitup-pro.html)
- [iolo Updater vs IObit Software Updater](https://find-your-software.com/solutions/iolo-updater-vs-iobit-software-updater.html)
- [iolo Updater vs Ashampoo Driver Updater](https://find-your-software.com/solutions/iolo-updater-vs-ashampoo-driver-updater.html)
- [iolo Updater vs IObit Driver Booster Pro](https://find-your-software.com/solutions/iolo-updater-vs-iobit-driver-booster-pro.html)
- [iolo Updater vs Auslogics Driver Updater](https://find-your-software.com/solutions/iolo-updater-vs-auslogics-driver-updater.html)

Explore [driver update software](https://find-your-software.com/products/driver-updaters.html) for related catalog products and workflows.

## iolo Updater FAQ

### Does iolo Updater handle both software and drivers?

Yes. It checks supported applications and device drivers and offers recommended updates for review.

### Can I choose which updates to install?

Yes. Manual selection lets you choose updates rather than applying every recommendation.

### Can I schedule maintenance?

Yes. Scheduling controls support regular scans and downloads. Review the timing and update settings before relying on unattended changes.

### Can I exclude a program or driver?

Yes. Add it to the Ignore List and review the separate program and driver lists when your needs change.

### How can I return to an earlier driver?

If a driver backup is available, select the driver in the Restore tab. Prepare the backup before replacing a working driver.

### Is a driver backup a full PC backup?

No. Preserve documents and other important data independently. Driver recovery does not restore every application, setting or personal file.

### Will every update improve performance?

No. Results depend on the device and software involved. Test the updated functions and retain a recovery option for changes that cause problems.