Interface is IDE (not PCI/ISA). ie: it connects to the computer via and IDE cable, that would make it IDE interface. Optical drives never require a driver when used in any Windows os from Windows 95 up. The os provides native support that allows this drive to read a data or music disk. Recording support comes from compatible recording software. Like HP Record Now (free on their website) or CdrWin (which you state you have) so what's the problem?