What is the benefit of a digitally signed driver?

A digitally signed driver offers the assurance that the driver has been verified and tested by the issuing authority, such as Microsoft. This digital signature indicates that the driver has not been altered or tampered with since it was signed, ensuring its integrity and authenticity. By ensuring that the driver is legitimate, it helps prevent the installation of malicious software that could compromise system performance or security. Additionally, operating systems typically enforce certain security measures, such as requiring drivers to be digitally signed before they can be installed, which further enhances system stability and security.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary benefits of a digitally signed driver. For instance, while some drivers might have been tested, not all signed drivers are necessarily Microsoft-certified. The speed of installation is not inherently improved by digital signing, nor does signing guarantee compatibility with all hardware. Furthermore, signing does not negate the need for driver updates, as drivers can still require updates for improved performance or compatibility with newer hardware and software.