Get the DisplayLink driver
DisplayLink USB graphics software for Windows 10 and 11 comes from synaptics.com, because Synaptics owns DisplayLink. Version 12.3 is the latest listed there, dated Sep 4, 2026. Your dock or monitor maker may offer its own copy, so check that first, then install Synaptics' package if the screen stays blank.
Checked October 30, 2026 against the manufacturer's own pages.
Driver downloads
| Driver | Version | Released | Size | Windows | Download |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DisplayLink USB Graphics Software for Windows | 12.3 | Sep 4, 2026 | See maker page | Windows 11 and Windows 10 | Download from synaptics.com |
Values copied from the manufacturer's page on October 30, 2026. The file always downloads from the manufacturer, never from this site.
Hardware IDs on this page
| Hardware ID | Device name |
|---|---|
USB\VID_17E9&PID_0198 | DisplayLink |
USB\VID_17E9&PID_436E | Dell D3100 Docking Station |
USB\VID_17E9&PID_0377 | Plugable UD-160-A (M) |
USB\VID_17E9&PID_0051 | USB VGA Adaptor |
Match the first line of Hardware Ids in Device Manager (Properties, Details) against this list. Names come from the public PCI ID Repository.
The short version
What to install and where it comes from. Every link goes to the manufacturer or Microsoft, never to a copy.
Official files only, nothing bundled
Step by step
Confirm the dock uses DisplayLink
Check the dock's box or manual for DisplayLink. In Device Manager, an unknown device with USB\VID_17E9 in its Hardware Ids is a DisplayLink part.
Look at your dock maker's page
Enter the dock model on the support page of its maker. Synaptics says OEMs may provide their own software for specific monitors, docks or adapters.
Use Synaptics' package otherwise
Open the Windows downloads page at synaptics.com, download the installer and run it with the dock unplugged.
Restart and reconnect
Restart, plug the dock in and allow a few seconds for the screens to wake. Windows may flicker as the display adapter loads.
Set the layout
Press Windows and P to choose Extend, then use Settings, System, Display to arrange the screens.
What DisplayLink does
A USB dock or adapter with DisplayLink sends the picture to the monitor over a USB cable, rather than a video port. The PC needs software to compress and send that picture, which is the DisplayLink driver. Without it, Windows sees the dock but nothing shows on the extra screens. Synaptics hosts the official downloads for DisplayLink drivers on its own site.
Maker version or Synaptics version
Docks from Dell, Lenovo, HP and others often include DisplayLink chips, and the makers sometimes bundle tested versions. Synaptics says OEMs may provide their own software for specific products. Start there if your dock came with a PC, then use the Synaptics package if you need a newer build or the maker has none.
Hardware IDs
DisplayLink’s USB vendor ID is 17E9. Products from several brands share it, so the name in the ID list varies, for example a Dell docking station or a Plugable adapter. Match the ID, not the label, when you check Device Manager.
Windows 10 S
Synaptics’ page notes that Windows 10 S devices get drivers from OEM pre-installation or Windows Update. Those devices cannot run the downloaded installer.
Questions
Is DisplayLink the same as Synaptics?
Yes. Synaptics' site hosts the DisplayLink drivers, and the page names the chipsets as DisplayLink USB graphics chipsets in docks, adapters or monitors.
Does the page list my dock model?
No. Synaptics' page does not list models. It covers the DisplayLink chipset, so check your dock's specifications for it.
Why update it?
Synaptics recommends the latest driver for security fixes, bug fixes, performance improvements and new features.
Screens stay black after a Windows update.
Reinstall the DisplayLink package, then restart. If it persists, try the version your dock maker lists.