Hidden XP Utility: Verifier - Boost Your Experience Gains

Utilizing the Windows XP Driver Verifier Tool

Previously this week, we discussed the procedure for reverting to a previous device driver version in Windows XP. A proactive measure to assess the compatibility of a downloaded driver is to employ a relatively obscure XP tool known as Verifier.

Accessing Driver Verifier

To launch Verifier, navigate to the Start menu, select Run, and type "verifier" – without the quotation marks – into the input field.

Driver Verifier Manager Options

The Driver Verifier Manager interface will then appear. Within this utility, several options are available, allowing you to select the task that best aligns with your specific needs.

You can choose to have the system automatically select a driver for testing, or manually choose from a comprehensive list.

Testing a Specific Driver

For demonstration purposes, we will proceed with selecting a driver from the list.

Consider a scenario where you are experiencing difficulties with your audio driver. Selecting this driver will initiate a prompt to restart your computer.

Should any instability or errors be present within the driver, the well-known Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) will appear, accompanied by a descriptive error message. Conversely, if the driver functions correctly, the system will boot up as expected.

Disabling Driver Verifier

To deactivate the Verifier utility, open the Run dialog box (Start Run) and enter "verifier /reset" – again, excluding the quotation marks.