Windows update keeps installing older Intel Arc graphics drivers

[JamesUK]

Hi, every time a new Intel ARC driver is released, I get an update from Intel Driver Assistant and I install it.
As soon as I restart my laptop, Windows update then installs a much older version, which is the version that was last released by my laptop maker, Asus.
If I then manually reinstall the newer driver again, either from intel driver support or from the Intel website, Windows just reinstalls this older driver again.

I have tried to manually uninstall the older driver, by ticking remove the software in device manager, and also deleted the folder that was in my 'drivers' folder that contained these old installation files, but nothing seems to be working.
Is there any way to stop Windows downgrading the driver every time it's updated, I don't want to be stuck on this March 2023 version, when Intel keep releasing new updates all the time for it.

Regards
James

 

[Rroff]

You'll probably have to go through this mess:

Smart Skills: Hide/Stop/Block Specific Updates on Windows 10/11

In this post, we will show you how to block specific updates on your Windows 10/11 computer using Show or hide updates.

www.minitool.com

How to Enable/Disable Automatic Driver Updates in Windows 11 - MiniTool

Learn how to enable or disable automatic driver updates in Windows 11 in this tutorial. 3 ways with detailed guides are included.

www.minitool.com

Blacklisting the default driver can be problematic though. Forced automatic updates are so utterly stupid.

 

[superleeds27]

Yeah same issue. Frustrating isn't it

 

[Blackjack Davy]

Disable driver updates from WU best thing I ever did

 

[Toughnoodle]

I have the same issue with my HP laptop. I want to use the more up-to-date Intel driver rather than the older HP customised one. There's a temporary workaround:

1. Install the latest Intel driver.
2. Keep an eye out for Windows update installing the HP one (the screen will flash).
3. Go into Device Manager, find the display adaptor and select "Roll back driver". Optional: leave a cheeky message for Microsoft in the feedback (who knows if anyone actually reads them).

It should keep the Intel driver unless Microsoft add a newer manufacturer customised driver.
Also, you'll probably have to the same again if you install an updated Intel driver.
Note: If you miss Windows installing the old driver, then you can stability issues when the new Intel app is installed with an older driver (e.g. shutdown hanging). Once you're on the newer driver the issue should be fixed.