In the last two modules, you learned how to install or upgrade your system to Windows 2000. Now that Windows 2000 is installed, it is time to begin configuring your computers so that they can take advantage of the functionality offered with Windows 2000.
In this lesson, you will learn how to install a hardware device.

Of course you already know what hardware is, but let's start by reviewing its formal definition. Hardware is defined as any physical device that is connected to a computer and controlled by the computer's microprocessor. Hardware is often referred to, simply, as a device. Devices can include equipment connected to the computer when it was manufactured, as well as peripheral equipment that you add later. Modems, disk drives, CD-ROM drives, print devices, network adapters, keyboards, and display adapter cards are all examples of hardware devices.

Before installing a device, you must be logged on as an administrator or a member of the Administrators group. The actual connection will vary, depending on the type of device you are installing.

Windows 2000 supports a wide range of hardware devices that were not supported in Windows NT 4.0. Built-in support for the Universal Serial Bus makes it possible to add most devices by just plugging them into a USB port or hub. The devices will be automatically configured by Windows 2000, and resource issues such as IRQ and memory address mappings are quickly and efficiently handled by the USB subsystem.
The table below describes how to connect the different types of devices that you will encounter.

After installing the device, your next steps will vary, depending on whether the device is a Plug and Play.
You will be instructed to choose a destination path to load the appropriate device drivers, and then to restart your computer, if necessary. A device driver is required for each hardware device, and acts as an intermediary between the hardware and the operating system. Windows 2000 will automatically configure the device so that it works properly with other devices on your computer. This includes assigning the device a unique set of system resources.

2. Identify the type of device that you are installing, then insert the floppy or compact disc that contains the device drivers so that they can be loaded. Depending on the device, the floppy or compact disc will either be provided with Windows 2000 or by the device's manufacturer.
3. After the device drivers are loaded onto your system, Windows 2000 configures the properties and settings for the device.
4. Depending on the type of device that you are installing, you may need to manually configure the device driver settings using the Device Manager, shown below. The settings should be supplied in the documentation that comes with your device.