The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 driver lets Windows recognize your audio interface and use its recording and playback connections. Installing the correct Focusrite driver helps your recording software access the interface reliably, with ASIO support for low-latency audio work.

Key Features

• ASIO audio support: Allows compatible recording applications to communicate directly with the interface, helping reduce monitoring delay when recording vocals, instruments, or other audio sources.
• Multichannel recording and playback: Makes the Scarlett 18i20’s available inputs and outputs accessible to supported audio software for recording sessions, playback, and studio routing.
• Adjustable audio settings: Provides access to supported sample-rate and buffer-size settings so you can balance responsiveness with stable performance.
• Integration with Focusrite control software: Works alongside the control application appropriate for your interface generation to support device configuration, monitoring, and routing.

How to Install

1. Identify your Scarlett 18i20 generation and Windows version. Driver and control-software requirements differ between generations. For Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7, confirm that the selected package explicitly supports both your operating system and your hardware; not every generation supports every listed Windows version.

1. Download the matching Focusrite software package. Choose the driver and, where required, the control application intended for your exact model. Close your recording software before starting installation.

1. Run the installer. Approve the Windows permission prompt and follow the on-screen instructions. Connect or disconnect the interface when instructed, and allow any required driver components to finish installing.

1. Connect and power on the interface. Use a suitable USB cable and preferably connect directly to a USB port on your computer. Restart Windows if prompted, then check that the Scarlett 18i20 appears in the appropriate Focusrite application or Windows audio settings.

1. Configure your recording software and test audio. Select the Focusrite ASIO driver in your DAW, enable the inputs and outputs you need, and choose an appropriate buffer size. Test recording and playback; if you hear clicks or dropouts, try increasing the buffer size before changing other settings.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Installer fails or hangs: Disconnect the 18i20, close DAWs and Focusrite Control, run the driver installer as administrator, reboot, then reconnect the interface before opening Focusrite Control.
• Device not detected: Use a direct USB port, not a hub; try a known-good USB cable and confirm the 18i20 is powered. Check Device Manager for unknown USB devices, then reinstall the driver.
• Version/sample-rate conflicts: Uninstall older Focusrite Control/driver versions before installing the current one. Match the Windows/DAW sample rate to the 18i20 and avoid running two audio apps at different rates.