When a new hardware device such as a printer or scanner is attached to a computer, which software component must usually be installed before the device can be used?

Introduction / Context:
This question belongs to the topic of computer hardware and system software. Modern operating systems can work with many different hardware devices, including printers, scanners, cameras and specialised equipment. However, the operating system needs a way to communicate correctly with each device. The small pieces of software that act as translators between the operating system and the hardware are central to this communication, and exams often ask you to identify them by name.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The scenario is that a new device such as a printer or scanner is attached to a computer.
• The question asks what must be installed before the device can be used successfully.
• Options include buffer, driver, pager, server and patch.
• We assume a standard operating system environment such as Windows, macOS or Linux.

Concept / Approach:
A device driver is a special software component that allows the operating system to communicate with a hardware device. It contains instructions on how to send commands to the device and how to interpret its responses. When you connect new hardware, the system either automatically installs a suitable driver or asks you to provide one from a disk or download. Without a proper driver, the device might not function or may not be recognised at all. Buffers and servers are different technical concepts, and pagers and patches have their own roles. Therefore, the correct answer is driver because that is the essential software required for the new device to work with the computer.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
User manuals for printers, scanners and other peripherals always include a section on installing drivers. Frequently asked questions on manufacturer websites also tell users to update or reinstall drivers if a device stops working. In operating system settings, there are dedicated sections such as Device Manager that list installed drivers for each hardware component. All of this documentation clearly states that drivers are required to operate the devices, while buffers, pagers and servers are not mentioned in this context. This confirms that driver is the correct answer to the question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Buffer: A buffer is a temporary memory area used to hold data while it is being moved, but it is not the software required to support a new device.
• Pager: Pager typically refers to a simple messaging device or a concept in operating systems related to memory management, not the software for hardware installation.
• Server: A server is a computer or program that provides services to other machines, not a small driver module for a local device.
• Patch: A patch is an update to software to fix bugs or security issues and is not specific to enabling a new hardware device.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may confuse drivers with general software or with update patches. While patches can improve drivers, they are not the original required component. Others may have heard technical terms like buffer or server and mistakenly think they are always part of any connection. To avoid confusion, remember the phrase device driver whenever you see a question about software needed for hardware to work. If the question mentions a printer, scanner or graphics card, the most likely answer is driver, because it is the bridge between the operating system and the device.

Final Answer:
Before a new printer, scanner or similar device can be used, its Driver must be installed on the computer.