Well, you only have one try with this fresh Windows install… I’d install them manually in the correct order.

BhargavJ,

I haven't reinstalled Win 8.1 yet. My question was about whether to manually install the drivers or to let the Dell site do it, but the replies indicate that I should do it manually, so that's what I'll do.

What exactly is the Dell System Software, under the category "System Utilties" - is it bloatware? Also, the 8th point in the link you've given is about the Dell ControlPoint, and it says in the description that it is for some Latitude laptops, so do I install that or not?

Something else I'd like to ask, though it is not about Dell laptops: I need a ghost image maker with which I can make a ghost image of the partition C: in its current state; the image maker should have the option to be run from a LiveCD, so that if the Win 8.1 installation fails, I can copy the ghost image back to C: drive by running the software from the LiveCD. Even if the installation goes without a hitch, I need this for the future, if someday I face a non-booting Windows. I've come across something called Anatheros, but I haven't yet looked at its features properly; I'm asking you all cause you might be using some such software.

Thanks for the replies. :)

BhargavJ,

Some Dell computers have Dell System Software. Between the Dell System Software(if applicable) and the chipset drivers,they know what is attached to each system, like wireless adapters, webcam, and other items. If they're not installed first, the rest of the drivers will fail to install.

Rick