• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
Join the HP Community Solve‑a‑thon | Help Others & Share Your Solutions | Live on Zoom | 2:30 PM to 2:30 AM IST | Every Wednesday Click here to know more
Check out our WINDOWS 11 Support Center info about: OPTIMIZATION, KNOWN ISSUES, FAQs, VIDEOS AND MORE.
HP Recommended

no drivers or software at hp for free for legacy pc. So Download free drivers from 3DP_Chip_v2602 work every time.

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

@Cindyzzz,

 

Welcome to our HP Community forum!

 

OK, let's unpack this for the wider HP Community: 3DP Chip is a bit of a mixed bag depending on who you ask in the tech community. Whilst it is a long-standing utility used for years to identify hardware, it carries some caveats:

 

1. Is it "Legit"?
 
Yes, it is a legitimate program in that it does what it claims: it identifies your hardware and provides links to drivers. It has been a go-to for technicians dealing with "Frankenstein" PCs or old hardware where official manufacturer support has vanished.
 
2. Is it "Safe"?
 
This is where it gets nuanced:
 
  • Official Source is Key: It is generally considered safe if downloaded from the official 3DP website.
  • Potential for "PUPs": Like many free utilities, its installer has historically been known to include "bundled" software (Potentially Unwanted Programs or adware). Always choose the Custom Installation and uncheck any extra offers.
  • Driver Accuracy: Some users have reported that it occasionally suggests older drivers or incorrect versions.
 
3. Expert Recommendation:
 
Most security experts and tech communities (such as Reddit's r/techsupport) suggest this hierarchy for driver safety:
 
  1. Windows Update: Your first and safest stop.
  2. Manufacturer’s Website: Go directly to the source (e.g., Nvidia, HP, ASUS) using the hardware IDs identified by 3DP Chip.
  3. Third-Party Utilities: Use these only as a last resort for very old or obscure hardware.
 
Verdict: Yes, 3DP Chip can be a useful tool if you're stuck, but it's not "best practice" for a modern, healthy PC.
 
Kind Regards,
 
NonSequitur777

† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.