A Deep Dive into OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672 on Windows
Windows users may occasionally notice an update called "OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672" appear in Windows Update. This update pertains to Human Interface Devices on your PC, which include keyboards, mice, and other input devices. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into what this update is, who it affects, and whether it’s safe to install.
What is OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672?
OEM stands for "Original Equipment Manufacturer." This refers to the company that originally manufactured a hardware component on your device, such as the keyboard or touchpad.
HID stands for "Human Interface Device." This encompasses any hardware component that a user can physically interact with, including keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and switches.
Together, OEM-HIDClass refers to Human Interface Device drivers created by the Original Equipment Manufacturer for their hardware components on your machine. These drivers allow Windows to properly communicate with and control these devices.
The 18.16.37.672 portion refers to the specific driver version. Driver versions include the date and build number so you can identify the exact release.
In summary, OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672 is a Human Interface Device driver for an input component like a keyboard or mouse. The manufacturer created it specifically for their hardware.
When Does This Update Appear?
You’ll generally see OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672 appear in Windows Update when:
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You’ve recently purchased a new PC with new hardware inside. The manufacturer wants you to have the latest HID drivers tailored for those components.
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You upgraded your OS to a new version, like from Windows 10 to Windows 11. The new OS may require refreshed drivers for some of your existing hardware.
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The device manufacturer released an updated driver for existing components. For example, it could enable new features or fix bugs.
In all cases, the OEM-HIDClass update ensures you have optimal driver support for the Human Interface Devices on your machine.
Is the Update Safe to Install?
While some usersexpressed concerns about potential issues installing OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672, Microsoft has confirmed that any update delivered through Windows Update is safe to download and install.
Windows Update rigorously checks driver packages from OEMs to ensure stability and security before publishing them. So you don’t need to worry about this update harming your system.
In fact, we recommend installing OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672 when it appears. It will likely improve the performance and compatibility of your keyboard, mouse, or other HID components. Any installation issues are typically minor and easily resolved by rerunning the update.
The only risk is if you install the driver on an unsupported device it wasn’t designed for. As long as you only install it on PCs from that OEM, you’ll be fine.
How to Install OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672
When the update appears in Windows Update:
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Open Windows Update in Settings > Update & Security.
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Click "Check for updates." This will scan and download any pending updates, including OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672.
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Once downloaded, click "Install now." Restart your PC if prompted.
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After restarting, the updated driver will automatically install. Check for any notifications to confirm it installed correctly.
If you experience any issues, try rerunning Windows Update and checking the box to "hide" the update. This will prevent it from continually trying and failing to install. You can then research solutions before attempting to install again.
The Bottom Line
While OEM-HIDClass-18.16.37.672 may seem vague and suspicious at first glance, it’s generally a driver update that improves Human Interface Device performance. Feel free to safely install it when notified in Windows Update. Your keyboard, mouse, and other components will benefit from tailored support from the manufacturer.
Make sure to bookmark our tech blog for more in-depth guides! Let us know in the comments if you have any other questions about Windows Update packages.
