MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) drivers are software programs that enable communication between MIDI devices (such as keyboards, synthesizers, and electronic drums) and a computer. MIDI drivers allow the computer to send and receive MIDI data, such as notes played on a keyboard or drum beats triggered by an electronic drum pad. MIDI drivers are essential for recording and playing back MIDI data using digital audio workstations (DAWs) and other music software on a computer.
In case your PC is unable to recognize the MIDI device, you will have to install the correct MIDI driver for it. In this article, we will discuss how you can install a correct MIDI driver in Windows 10.
How to install MIDI Drivers in Windows 10
To install MIDI drivers in Windows 10 and fix the issue of missing MIDI drivers, you can use the following methods:
Run Hardware and Device Troubleshooter.
Search for MIDI Drivers on the Official Manufacturer’s website.
Check for MIDI Driver using Third-party applications.
Run in Compatibility Mode.
Let’s elaborate on these methods now!
1] Run Hardware and Device Troubleshooter
Usually, Windows install the correct driver whenever hardware is plugged in. But, in case this doesn’t happen with your MIDI device, you can try Windows troubleshooting to fix it. Before looking for another solution, try the below steps to troubleshoot the MIDI driver issue:
STEP 1: Press the Windows key + X and select "Settings".
STEP 2: Click on "Update & Security" and then select "Troubleshoot" from the left-hand side panel.
STEP 3: Scroll down and click on "Hardware and Devices".
STEP 4: Click on "Run the troubleshooter".
STEP 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting. If any issues are detected, the troubleshooter will try to fix them automatically.
2] Search for MIDI Drivers on the Official Manufacturer’s website
You should try searching for the latest MIDI drivers on the official website of your device manufacturer. Most of the manufacturers provide the latest MIDI drivers on their websites that you can download and install on your Windows 10 PC. Other than that, if you choose to download a MIDI driver from elsewhere, make sure the website is genuine.
STEP 1: Determine the manufacturer and model of your MIDI device.
STEP 2: Visit the official website of the manufacturer.
STEP 3: Navigate to the "Support" or "Downloads" section of the website.
STEP 4: Search for the latest MIDI drivers for your device.
STEP 5: Download and install the driver package.
3] Check for MIDI Driver using Third-party applications
Don’t want to do all the work manually? We understand! There is a solution for that as well. You can use a trusted third-party free driver updater software. A driver update software can automatically find a suitable MIDI driver for you and then you can install it on your system.
STEP 1: Download and install a reputable third-party driver updater application, such as Driver Booster, DriverPack Solution, or SlimDrivers.
STEP 2: Launch the application and scan your system for outdated or missing drivers.
STEP 3: Look for any MIDI driver updates and install them.
4] Run in Compatibility Mode
If your system is unable to play the MIDI program or device, there might be some compatibility issues. Try running the MIDI program in compatibility mode or use the compatibility troubleshooter and see if that fixes up your problem with MIDI drivers.
STEP 1: Right-click on the MIDI driver installation file and select "Properties".
STEP 2: Click on the "Compatibility" tab.
STEP 3: Check the box next to "Run this program in compatibility mode for".
STEP 4: Select the version of Windows the driver was designed for in the drop-down menu.
STEP 5: Click on "Apply" and then "OK".
STEP 6: Run the installation file to install the driver.
Conclusion
It's important to ensure that you download the correct MIDI driver for your device and that you follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid any issues with installation or compatibility.