Configure driver search locations
Supported on: Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2003, Windows Vista, and Windows XP
Registry
Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DriverSearching Options
DontSearchFloppies boolean DontSearchCD boolean DontSearchWindowsUpdate boolean Description
This setting configures the location that Windows searches for drivers when a new piece of hardware is found. By default, Windows searches the following places for drivers: local installation, floppy drives, CD-ROM drives, Windows Update. Using this setting, you may remove the floppy and CD-ROM drives from the search algorithm. If you enable this setting, you can remove the locations by selecting the associated check box beside the location name. If you disable or do not configure this setting, Windows searches the installation location, floppy drives, and CD-ROM drives. Note: To prevent searching Windows Update for drivers also see "Turn off Windows Update device driver searching" in Administrative Templates/System/Internet Communication Management/Internet Communication settings.