Have you noticed your games running slower, apps crashing, or your display flickering in Windows 11? One of the most common causes is an outdated graphics driver.
Your graphics driver acts like a translator between your hardware (GPU) and Windows. Without regular updates, your system may struggle with performance, compatibility, and even security.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to update graphics driver on Windows 11 step by step, covering multiple methods so you can choose the best one for your needs.
Summary (Key Takeaways)
-
Updating your graphics driver in Windows 11 improves performance, stability, and compatibility with apps and games.
-
You can update drivers using:
-
Windows Update
-
Device Manager
-
GPU Manufacturer Software (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel)
-
Manual driver downloads
-
-
Outdated drivers may cause crashes, screen flickering, and low FPS.
-
Always restart your PC after updating to apply changes.
Why Do You Need to Update Graphics Drivers in Windows 11?
Still wondering if it’s worth the hassle? Here’s why keeping drivers updated matters:
-
🎮 Better Gaming Performance – New drivers optimize performance for the latest games.
-
🖥️ Improved Display Quality – Fixes screen resolution, brightness, and refresh rate issues.
-
🛠️ Bug Fixes – Resolves crashes, stuttering, or black screen problems.
-
🔒 Security Updates – Protects your system from GPU-related vulnerabilities.
-
⚡ System Stability – Reduces freezing and improves multitasking.
Method 1: Update Graphics Driver Using Windows Update
This is the simplest method since Windows 11 automatically checks for driver updates.
Steps:
-
Press Win + I to open Settings.
-
Go to Windows Update from the left panel.
-
Click Check for updates.
-
Look under Optional updates → Driver updates.
-
If a graphics driver is listed, select it and click Download & install.
✅ Best for users who want a quick, automatic update without extra tools.
Method 2: Update Graphics Driver via Device Manager
Device Manager lets you update drivers directly.
Steps:
-
Right-click the Start Menu and select Device Manager.
-
Expand the Display adapters section.
-
Right-click your GPU (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) → Update driver.
-
Choose Search automatically for drivers.
-
If an update is found, Windows installs it automatically.
⚠️ Note: Sometimes Windows reports that you already have the best driver, even if a newer one exists. In that case, try Method 3.
Method 3: Update Graphics Driver Using Manufacturer Software
If you want the latest drivers immediately, use the official GPU software.
For NVIDIA Users
-
Install GeForce Experience from NVIDIA’s website.
-
Log in → Go to Drivers tab → Click Check for updates → Install.
For AMD Users
-
Install AMD Adrenalin Edition Software.
-
Open it → Go to Updates → Check and install available drivers.
For Intel Users
-
Use Intel Driver & Support Assistant (DSA).
-
It scans your system and updates Intel graphics drivers automatically.
✅ Best for gamers and power users who need the latest optimizations.
Method 4: Manually Download and Install Graphics Drivers
If you prefer manual control:
-
Identify your GPU model:
-
Press Win + R → type
dxdiag→ Enter. -
Go to the Display tab to check GPU details.
-
-
Visit your GPU manufacturer’s official website:
-
Enter your GPU model and download the latest driver.
-
Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions.
-
Restart your PC.
⚡ Best for advanced users who want maximum control.
How to Check If Your Graphics Driver Updated Successfully
After updating, confirm your driver version:
-
Right-click Start Menu → select Device Manager.
-
Expand Display adapters.
-
Right-click your GPU → Properties.
-
Go to the Driver tab and check the version/date.
If the date is recent, your update was successful.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Driver Installation Failed
-
Uninstall old drivers first.
-
Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) in Safe Mode, then reinstall.
2. Black Screen After Update
-
Restart in Safe Mode and roll back the driver:
-
Device Manager → GPU → Properties → Driver → Roll Back Driver.
-
3. Windows Says “Best Driver Already Installed”
-
Download directly from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel’s website for the latest version.
Comparison of Methods
| Method | Difficulty | Best For | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Update | Easy | Beginners | Moderate |
| Device Manager | Easy | Quick updates | Moderate |
| Manufacturer Software | Medium | Gamers, power users | High |
| Manual Download | Advanced | Full control | Very High |
Tips for Smooth Graphics Driver Updates
-
🎮 Update drivers before installing new games.
-
🔄 Always restart your PC after updates.
-
💾 Keep a backup driver in case the new one causes issues.
-
🛠️ Avoid third-party “driver updater” apps—they may install wrong or unsafe drivers.
Conclusion
Updating your graphics driver on Windows 11 is one of the easiest ways to improve performance and stability. Whether you use Windows Update, Device Manager, GPU software, or manual downloads, the process takes just a few minutes.
So next time your game lags or your display glitches, don’t panic—just update your graphics driver and enjoy a smoother experience.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my graphics driver needs updating?
If you experience crashes, low FPS, or display issues, it’s time to update. You can also check driver dates in Device Manager.
2. Can I update my graphics driver without internet?
Yes, but you’ll need to download the driver installer first from another device and transfer it.
3. Is it safe to update graphics drivers?
Yes, as long as you update from official sources (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, Windows Update).
4. Do I need to uninstall old drivers before updating?
Usually not, but if problems occur, use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to clean old drivers.
5. How often should I update graphics drivers?
-
Gamers: update every 1–2 months.
-
Regular users: update only when problems occur or major updates release.