Driver software is a type of program that allows the operating system of a computer or device to communicate with hardware components, such as printers, graphics cards, or keyboards. It acts as a translator between the hardware and the software, ensuring that commands are understood and executed properly. Without driver software, the operating system would not be able to recognize or utilize the hardware effectively. Each piece of hardware typically requires its own specific driver, which can often be updated or installed from the manufacturer's website to improve performance or fix issues.