Multiple entries in Device Manager/Hardware.. tedious to remove 1

[MALFIE]

Ever altered hardware or drivers and were forced into safe mode? On checking through the hardware drivers list I sometimes find many duplicated drivers.. particulalry in Ports and System.
Has anyone figured out an easy way to remove these, or which ones must be removed before rebooting ( and the others simply disappear)?
It would be neat if holding the CTRL key would work but it doesn't..

Thanks

 

[micker377]

These are called "ghost" entries. They occur when you add new hardware. The old drivers are hidden. When you find multiple entries (match completely), remove ALL of them (yes - one at a time, takes forever). This is a common repair when you have problems. When you have removed all you can find - reboot, Windows will find them again (usually). You may have to re-install some off the install disks. Be careful around the mouse entries, when you remove the drivers, your mouse may go dead, you will have to use keyboard arrows and tab key to apply,exit, and reboot. Ports and system entries are safe to remove. You may need the Win98 disk.