As someone who frequently uses Dell devices in both work and creative settings, I’ve learned just how useful Dell Peripheral Manager can be. It’s a dedicated Windows app designed to help you fine-tune your accessories—from webcams to styluses. Yet many users, like I once did, don’t know where to download it or how it differs from other Dell software. So here’s a simple, practical guide based on my own experience—covering everything from download to everyday tips.
Part 1. How to Download and Install Dell Peripheral Manager
When I first learned about Dell Peripheral Manager, I was excited to try it out—especially since I use multiple Dell accessories like a webcam, stylus, and wireless keyboard. The installation process on my Dell Inspiron running Windows 11 was smooth, and within minutes, I had complete control over all my devices.
Here’s a step-by-step guide you can follow, along with some practical tips from my own experience:
1. Visit the official Dell support page
Start by heading to the official Dell support site to make sure you're downloading a clean and verified version:
👉Dell Support Drivers & Downloads
Using the official page gives you access to the latest version, compatible drivers, and helpful documentation, all in one place.
2. Search for your product
On the support page, you’ll see a search bar asking for your Service Tag or product model.
I personally typed in “XPS 15”, but if you have your Service Tag handy (usually on the back or underside of your device), that's the most accurate way to pull up your exact model.
This step ensures that you’re downloading the correct version of Dell Peripheral Manager that's compatible with your hardware.
3. Locate the software
After selecting your product, scroll down through the available drivers and tools. Under the Applications or Software category, you should find Dell Peripheral Manager.
Double-check the version number and release date to make sure you’re getting the latest update.
4. Click “Download File”
Once you’re on the correct page, hit the “Download File” button.
The file is approximately 200MB, so it should only take a couple of minutes on most internet connections. After it finishes downloading, locate the .exe file in your Downloads folder.
5. Install the software
Double-click the .exe file to start the installation process. The installer is user-friendly and doesn’t require any advanced setup—just follow the on-screen instructions and click “Next” a few times.
In less than five minutes, the installation should be complete.
6. Launch and pin it for easy access
Once installed, you’ll find Dell Peripheral Manager in your Start Menu. I recommend pinning it to your Start or taskbar, especially if you plan to use it frequently (I use it almost daily to adjust webcam settings or check battery levels on my keyboard).
On first launch, the app will scan for connected Dell peripherals and display them in a clean, simple interface.
Pro Tip: Use Dell SupportAssist if your device isn’t detected
If you notice that some devices aren’t appearing inside the app, don’t worry—that happened to me, too. I ran Dell SupportAssist, and it automatically detected missing drivers and updated the compatibility configuration.
By following these steps, you’ll have Dell Peripheral Manager installed and ready to go in no time. Once it’s up and running, you’ll be able to easily manage your Dell accessories with far more precision and convenience than Windows’ default settings offer.
Part 2. What Dell Peripheral Manager Can Do?
When I first installed Dell Peripheral Manager, I didn’t expect to use it much. But once I explored its features, it quickly became one of my most useful tools—especially since I regularly switch between different Dell devices like a webcam, stylus, and external mouse.
Here are some of the standout things it can do:
Customize webcam settings:
Whether I’m on a Zoom call or recording a presentation, I can easily adjust brightness, contrast, sharpness, and even the field of view right from the app. It’s way more precise than the generic Windows camera settings, and I get professional, well-lit video feed every time.
Set keyboard or mouse shortcuts:
I love this feature for streamlining tasks. I’ve created custom shortcuts for launching apps, controlling media, or triggering complex macros in video editing software. It’s especially useful during gaming sessions too, where every millisecond counts.Update firmware:
This might sound minor, but it’s actually a huge help. Dell Peripheral Manager checks for firmware updates on connected devices, making sure everything runs at peak performance. No more random glitches or lag due to outdated firmware.
Manage stylus behavior:
I use a Dell stylus for digital note taking and sketching. With the software, I can fine-tune the pressure sensitivity, palm rejection, and responsiveness to suit how I write or draw. It made the experience feel far more natural.Device monitoring:
The app shows real-time info like battery levels, connection status, and usage statistics. This helps me stay on top of all my connected devices, especially when working with multiple USB-C accessories and peripherals.
In short, Dell Peripheral Manager brings all my Dell accessories into one clean, organized interface. No more digging through separate apps or clunky control panels, everything is centralized, easy to understand, and just works.
Part 3. Tips and Things I Learned
After using Dell Peripheral Manager for several months, I’ve picked up a few useful tips that can save you time and make your experience smoother:
Works on Windows 10 and 11 (64-bit):
I personally use it on a Dell laptop running Windows 11, and I’ve never run into compatibility issues. The software is optimized for both operating systems and runs efficiently without hogging system resources. Whether you're adjusting webcam settings or updating firmware, everything feels snappy and stable.Mac users, take note:
Dell Peripheral Manager is designed for Windows, so if you're on macOS, you’ll need to download Dell Display and Peripheral Manager (DDPM) instead. It offers similar functionality for supported Dell monitors and peripherals, but it's tailored to the macOS environment.Keep it updated:
One thing I’ve learned is that Dell quietly adds helpful new features through updates. For instance, a recent version introduced gesture support and the ability to answer calls by flipping your headset mic up or down—something I found incredibly convenient during Zoom meetings. Make sure you regularly check for updates or enable auto-update settings.Bonus tip – Use Dell SupportAssist:
This tool works hand-in-hand with Dell Peripheral Manager. I let SupportAssist handle updates automatically, and it’s been a lifesaver. It not only keeps Dell Peripheral Manager current, but also ensures all my drivers and firmware are up to date—without me having to do anything manually.
Overall, Dell Peripheral Manager is one of those utilities that you don’t think you need until you start using it. These small tweaks and updates really add up to a smoother, more optimized experience with your Dell accessories.
WPS Office – Work Smarter Alongside Dell Devices
While Dell Peripheral Manager takes care of my hardware, WPS Office has become my everyday essential for productivity. Whether I’m working from my Dell XPS at home or my Latitude at the office, WPS Office keeps everything running smoothly.
Here’s how I use it across different tasks:
WPS Writer: I rely on it daily for writing reports, drafting proposals, editing resumes, and even journaling my meeting notes. It’s intuitive, fast, and handles formatting like a champ.
WPS Spreadsheet: This has replaced Excel for me. I track freelance projects, monitor my monthly income, and do quick data analysis—all without lag.
WPS Presentation: Creating clean, professional presentations has never been easier. I’ve built client pitch decks and internal slide decks in half the time it used to take.
WPS PDF Toolkit: This is probably my favorite part—combining PDFs, highlighting key points, converting formats, or adding e-signatures is all done in a few clicks.
What do I love most about it? WPS Office is incredibly lightweight. Even when I’m running Dell Peripheral Manager in the background to adjust webcam settings during a video call, there’s no slowdown. Plus, its AI-powered features, like PDF summarization and content suggestions, help me process documents faster, especially when I need to review lengthy reports on tight deadlines.
It also syncs seamlessly across all my devices, so I can start a doc on my laptop and finish it on my phone without missing a beat.
In short, WPS Office complements my Dell setup perfectly smart, efficient, and always ready to work.
FAQs
What is the Dell Peripheral Manager used for?
It’s a centralized tool for managing and customizing Dell accessories—keyboards, webcams, styluses, and more.
Is it compatible with Windows 11?
Yes, fully compatible with Windows 10/11 (64-bit only).
Are Dell Display and Peripheral Manager the same thing?
Not exactly. DDPM is the newer, merged tool that also manages Dell monitors.
