Where can I find free driver downloads?

What is your operating system? Unless it's an outdated model Vista or Windows 7 can't recognize, you should be able to run both of those with a generic driver that Windows loads by default when it sees the device. The only time I've had problems is with some very old devices and Vista wouldn't recognize it and had no onboard driver to give the device.

But to answer your question: Always get your drivers from the manufacturers. The only time I would ever venture out to alternate sites for drivers is if the manufacturer has discontinued the model and no longer carries the drivers.

I have had a membership in DriverGuide for many years, but recently gave it up. They are not "free" as you have to accept UniBlue or some such thing in order to get what you need. What version of Windows are you running that it didn't find the drivers for you? The first answerer gave you the most reliable answer - remove the drive, replace it, then restart the machine and let Windows find the drivers. If that doesn't work, or is too much trouble, then go back to the manufacturer's websites. They will have the drivers you need without hitting on you to buy a new machine.

Optical drives haven't needed third party drivers since the days of Windows '98!

First check that you have the jumpers set to 'Slave'. There's usually a diagram on the drive. If it's not that....

Turn off PC/laptop.

Disconnect CD/DVD drive*, turn PC/laptop on, allow to boot fully, then turn off again.

Re-connect CD/DVD drive and turn on.

Windows will re-build the drivers or start the 'Found new hardware wizard'.

*Most laptops will have either a sliding switch or 1-2 screws holding the drive in. Sliding the switch or removing these screw/s will enable the drive to be pulled from the machine.

© arou42

If you can't find them on the manufacturers website then thats not good. That is the primary place to find them.

I don't know of any other legit places to universally find drivers.

I would go through the manufacturers again as the drivers most likely have to be on those sites somewhere.

that is why u get a kind call each human being is conscious... like NVIDIA GeForce sequence or ATI sequence. 2 maximum commonly used video card makers and automobile detects what motive force u have on there internet website so u can in basic terms get carry of the recent motive force quickly.