Microsoft’s Surface Book 2, a powerful and versatile 2-in-1 laptop, demands a robust and well-maintained software ecosystem to deliver its promised performance and functionality. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the December 2017 drivers and firmware update package for the Surface Book 2, detailing its significance and guiding users on how to obtain and install these crucial components. Maintaining updated drivers and firmware ensures optimal device performance, security, and compatibility with the latest software and hardware innovations.
To get all drivers and firmware you must download both File 1 and File 2.
Because updates are cumulative, when you install the latest update, you’ll also get all the previous updates if your Surface doesn’t have them already. Only updates that apply to Surface will be downloaded and installed.
What’s New:
While the original release notes for the December 2017 Surface Book 2 drivers and firmware are rather sparse, understanding the general importance of these updates is paramount. Let’s delve into the core concepts of drivers and firmware, and explore why they are so critical for the smooth operation of your Surface Book 2.
Understanding Drivers and Firmware
Drivers act as translators between your operating system (Windows) and the hardware components of your Surface Book 2. They are software programs that allow Windows to communicate effectively with devices like the touchscreen, keyboard, trackpad, graphics card, wireless adapter, and more. Without the correct drivers, these components may not function properly, leading to performance issues, errors, or even complete malfunction.
Firmware, on the other hand, is a type of software that is embedded directly into the hardware itself. It controls the low-level operations of the device. Think of it as the foundational programming that tells the hardware how to behave. Firmware updates are crucial for improving stability, fixing bugs, and enhancing the overall performance of hardware components. In the context of the Surface Book 2, firmware updates can affect the performance of the processor, the power management system, and even the way the device interacts with peripherals.
Why are Updates Important?
Regular driver and firmware updates are essential for several key reasons:
- Performance Optimization: Updates often contain optimizations that improve the efficiency and speed of hardware components. This can translate to faster boot times, smoother multitasking, and enhanced performance in demanding applications like gaming and video editing.
- Bug Fixes: Software, including drivers and firmware, is never perfect. Updates address bugs and glitches that can cause crashes, freezes, or other unexpected behavior. These fixes are critical for ensuring a stable and reliable user experience.
- Security Enhancements: Security vulnerabilities are constantly being discovered in software and hardware. Updates often include patches that address these vulnerabilities, protecting your device from malware and other security threats.
- Compatibility: As new software and hardware are released, updates ensure that your Surface Book 2 remains compatible with the latest technologies. This is particularly important for graphics drivers, which need to be updated to support new games and applications.
- Feature Enhancements: In some cases, updates may introduce new features or functionality to your device. This could include improvements to the touchscreen responsiveness, the addition of new power management options, or enhancements to the wireless connectivity.
Obtaining the December 2017 Drivers and Firmware for Surface Book 2
Given the age of this update, accessing it directly through Windows Update might not be straightforward. While the original release notes mention downloading two files, the direct links are not provided in your input. Therefore, I will provide a general approach for finding and installing these updates and include links to download locations:
General Approach:
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Windows Update: The first place to check is always Windows Update. Even though this is an older update, running Windows Update will ensure you have the latest available updates, which will almost certainly include everything in the December 2017 package (and more). Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click "Check for updates."
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Microsoft Download Center: Search the Microsoft Download Center for "Surface Book 2 Drivers and Firmware." Filter by date or keywords to narrow down the results and look for anything referencing December 2017.
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Third-Party Driver Websites: Websites specializing in driver downloads, such as DriverEasy or Driver Booster, may archive older drivers. However, exercise caution when downloading from third-party sources. Ensure the source is reputable and the downloaded files are scanned for malware before installation.
Download Links (Please verify the files after downloading from third-party source for legitimacy):
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Original Source (Microsoft – Assuming it’s still available): Due to lack of the original download link, search on Microsoft Download Center.
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Alternative Source (DriverEasy – Use with caution and scan for malware): https://www.drivereasy.com/driver-list/microsoft-surface-book-2/ (Disclaimer: I am providing this link for informational purposes only. I do not endorse or guarantee the safety or reliability of DriverEasy. Always exercise caution when downloading files from third-party sources.)
Important Considerations Before Installing:
- Backup Your Data: Before installing any driver or firmware updates, it’s always a good idea to back up your important data. This will protect you in case something goes wrong during the installation process.
- Close All Applications: Close all running applications before starting the installation. This will prevent conflicts and ensure that the updates are installed correctly.
- Connect to Power: Ensure your Surface Book 2 is connected to a power source during the installation process. Interrupting the installation could potentially damage your device.
- Read the Instructions: Carefully read the installation instructions provided with the update package. Follow the instructions precisely to avoid any problems.
- Restart Your Device: After the installation is complete, restart your Surface Book 2. This will allow the changes to take effect.
Troubleshooting Installation Issues
If you encounter any problems during the installation process, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Check the Error Messages: Pay close attention to any error messages that appear. These messages can provide valuable clues about the cause of the problem.
- Restart Your Device: Sometimes, simply restarting your device can resolve installation issues.
- Run the Troubleshooter: Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can help diagnose and fix driver problems. To run the troubleshooter, go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot and select "Hardware and Devices."
- Reinstall the Drivers: If the installation fails, try reinstalling the drivers. You can download the latest drivers from the Microsoft Download Center or from the manufacturer’s website.
- Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, consider seeking professional help from a qualified technician.
Conclusion
While the specific details of the December 2017 Surface Book 2 drivers and firmware update might be scarce, the general principles of maintaining updated drivers and firmware remain critically important. By understanding the role of these components and following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Surface Book 2 continues to perform optimally and remains protected against security threats. Always prioritize downloading drivers from trusted sources like Microsoft or the device manufacturer, and remember to back up your data before undertaking any system updates. Staying informed and proactive about your Surface Book 2‘s software health will contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable user experience.