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How to Update GPU Drivers

Learn how to update GPU drivers, identify your graphics card, use manufacturer tools, avoid driver mistakes, troubleshoot, and use FAQs.

TechnologyEdited by Pramod Tiwari
2 min read

Quick Answer

To update GPU drivers, identify your graphics card, download the latest driver from the GPU maker or PC manufacturer, close apps, run the installer, restart, and test your display or game afterward.

What You Need

  • Windows PC
  • GPU model
  • Internet connection
  • Admin permission
  • Restore point or backup for important systems

Safety Precautions

  • Download drivers only from trusted manufacturer sources.
  • Avoid random driver updater tools.
  • Create a restore point before major driver changes.
  • Do not turn off the PC during installation.
  • Use laptop manufacturer drivers if your laptop requires them.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Identify GPU

    Open Device Manager or Task Manager to find the graphics card model.

  2. Step 2

    Choose source

    Use NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, Windows Update, or your PC maker support page.

  3. Step 3

    Download driver

    Choose the driver matching your GPU and Windows version.

  4. Step 4

    Close apps

    Close games, design tools, and browser tabs using the GPU.

  5. Step 5

    Run installer

    Follow the installer prompts and choose clean install only if needed.

  6. Step 6

    Restart PC

    Restart when installation completes.

  7. Step 7

    Test display

    Check resolution, refresh rate, games, or GPU apps after restart.

Practical Example

Example: A game asks for a newer graphics driver, so you identify your NVIDIA card, download the driver from NVIDIA, install it, restart, and test the game.

Common Mistakes

  • Using untrusted updater tools
  • Installing the wrong GPU driver
  • Skipping restart
  • Updating during important work
  • Ignoring laptop-specific drivers
  • Panicking when the screen flickers during install

Troubleshooting

Screen flickers during install

A brief flicker can be normal while the driver resets.

Wrong resolution after update

Restart, check display settings, or roll back the driver.

Game runs worse

Try a clean install, roll back, or use the recommended stable driver.

Installer fails

Check GPU model, Windows version, admin rights, and free disk space.

FAQs

How do I know what GPU I have?

Use Device Manager, Task Manager, DirectX Diagnostic Tool, or system information.

Should I use Windows Update or manufacturer drivers?

Windows Update is simple; manufacturer tools often provide newer game or creator drivers.

Do GPU drivers need frequent updates?

Update when fixing issues, improving game support, or following manufacturer recommendations.

Can I roll back a bad driver?

Yes, Device Manager may offer Roll Back Driver, or you can install an older stable driver.

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