An arrangement for installing function drivers that provide communication between computer applications and various peripheral devices employs a master driver that is loaded for each peripheral device. The master drivers receive notification of the connection of the respective peripheral devices and, in time, load the proper function drivers. Each function driver has (1) an interface part that communicates with an application and (2) a peripheral part that communicates with the peripheral device associated with that application. When a device is disconnected, the associated function driver is notified and, in response, the driver discontinues operations of its peripheral part and retains operation of its interface part.