This article provides information regarding the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta, a release designed for 32-bit versions of Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8 operating systems. Released as part of the R304 driver family, this particular iteration marked a significant step forward in driver consolidation, offering unified support for multiple Windows platforms within a single package.
Release Overview
The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta represents the second beta release within the R304 driver branch. Its key feature lies in being the first GeForce driver to bundle support for Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista into a single, cohesive installation package. This streamlining aimed to simplify driver management for users operating across different versions of the Windows operating system, providing a more convenient and efficient experience. The driver was last updated on July 3, 2012.
Key Features and Improvements
While the provided source lacks specific details regarding the new features introduced specifically within the 304.79 Beta, it does allude to enhancements implemented in the broader R304 driver series, particularly those initially introduced with the 304.48 drivers. It is important to note that without more granular information, we can only offer a general overview of potential improvements.
Typically, new driver releases like the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta focus on the following areas:
- Performance Optimizations: Improvements to frame rates and overall performance in various games and applications. These optimizations are often tailored to specific game titles or graphics card architectures.
- Bug Fixes: Resolution of known issues and glitches that may have been present in previous driver versions. These fixes enhance stability and prevent unexpected behavior.
- Compatibility Enhancements: Improved compatibility with new games, applications, and hardware configurations. This ensures that users can seamlessly integrate the latest technologies with their existing systems.
- Feature Updates: Introduction of new features or enhancements to existing features, such as improved image quality settings or support for new display technologies.
Operating System Support
As the title suggests, the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta is specifically designed for the following 32-bit Windows operating systems:
- Windows Vista
- Windows 7
- Windows 8
Users with 64-bit versions of these operating systems would require a different driver package specifically tailored to their system architecture.
Filename and Download Information
The filename for the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta is:
- 304.79-desktop-win8-win7-winvista-32bit-english-beta.exe
Download Links
The driver can be downloaded from the following sources:
Alternative Download Links:
While it’s always recommended to download drivers from official or reputable sources, here are a few alternative links that might host the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta. Please exercise caution and scan any downloaded files with an anti-virus program before installation.
- Softpedia: Please note that Softpedia is a reputable source, but I cannot guarantee they still host this specific driver version. Search on Softpedia for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta 32-bit".
- Guru3D: Guru3D is a well-known site for enthusiast drivers, but availability is not guaranteed. Search on Guru3D for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta 32-bit".
- DriverGuide: DriverGuide may require registration to download. Search on DriverGuide for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta 32-bit".
- MajorGeeks: MajorGeeks is another reputable download site. Search on MajorGeeks for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta 32-bit".
- FileHippo: FileHippo is a common download site, but driver availability can vary. Search on FileHippo for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta 32-bit".
Important Considerations
- Beta Status: It is crucial to remember that the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta is a beta release. This means that it may contain bugs or stability issues that are not present in stable, final versions. Users should be aware of this potential risk before installing the driver.
- Compatibility: Before installing any new graphics driver, it is always recommended to check the compatibility list provided by Nvidia to ensure that your specific graphics card model is supported.
- Clean Installation: To ensure a smooth and trouble-free installation, it is often advisable to perform a "clean installation" of the driver. This involves completely removing any previous Nvidia drivers from your system before installing the new version. Nvidia’s driver installation package usually provides an option for a clean installation.
- User Feedback: Beta drivers are often released to gather feedback from users. If you encounter any issues or have any suggestions for improvement, it is encouraged to report them to Nvidia through their official channels.
Supported Products
The provided source does not explicitly list the supported graphics card models for the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta. However, as part of the GeForce driver series, it likely supports a range of desktop graphics cards from that era. To determine if your specific graphics card is compatible, it is essential to consult the official Nvidia documentation or the driver release notes.
Conclusion
The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 304.79 Beta represented a step towards unified driver support for various Windows operating systems. While specific details regarding its new features are limited, it likely included performance optimizations, bug fixes, and compatibility enhancements typical of driver releases. Users considering this driver should be aware of its beta status and potential risks and ensure compatibility with their hardware before installation. Always prioritize downloading drivers from reputable sources like Nvidia’s official website or trusted download portals.