So, what is a Windows display update for?

[rdl]

I shutdown Windows update on this computer in July. I had to reboot today and after a while a few updates were found. One of the two optional was a "display update" specifically for the exact model of BenQ monitor I got in August. What could that be for? I've been building computers for 20 years and I can't recall ever installing a monitor driver or monitor software. Apparently I'm not searching the right words because google isn't being helpful.  It has no kb number and asking Windows Update for "more information" only led to a generic help page at microsoft.com

[Len]

Besides ICC profiles, I think the monitor "driver" has basic info like the preferred resolution and supported refresh rates. I know that Windows has had these for a long time - I had a CRT monitor that came with the driver file on a floppy disk.

[rdl]

I think you both are right. Probably Windows just detected a new display it didn't already have in its database and is wanting to install a .inf file for basic specs and color profile. A disk did come in the box which has that on it. Maybe, just out of curiosity, I'll install from there and see if the Windows update goes away.

[Monkeh]

It's a colour profile. Odds are it won't be remotely right and will look horrific. Just ignore it.

Besides ICC profiles, I think the monitor "driver" has basic info like the preferred resolution and supported refresh rates.

The EDID has supplied that for a long, long time.

[Len]

The EDID has supplied that for a long, long time.

Nevertheless, that info is in the .inf file for a monitor.