Best 5 Fixes for Windows 11 Not Detecting GPU

When the Windows 11 GPU is not detected, a lot of graphic functions will not be optimized. Learn all the possible fixes in this guide.

January 1, 2024 · 4 min · 794 words · Spencer Allen

Table of Contents

Best 5 Fixes for Windows 11 Not Detecting GPU

Afam has been a content writer with Guiding Tech Media since August 2023. However, his experience in tech writing dates back to 2018, when he worked as a freelance writer for Make Tech Easier. Over the years, he has grown a reputation for publishing quality guides, reviews, tips, and explainer articles. His work is featured on top websites, including Technical Ustad, Windows Report, and Next of Windows. He has training as a Microsoft Certified Professional and has covered more Microsoft-related guides on these platforms.

Basic Fixes:

Fix 1: Update the System BIOS

ABIOS updateis critical when Windows 11 is not detecting the GPU because a newer GPU may need the update for compatibility and proper motherboard communication. Also, since the BIOS controls the hardware component’s initialization process, an update will ensure no initialization errors. If you have made any changes to the BISO settings, you may consider restoring them to their default settings.

Note:The BIOS update process will differ by manufacturer. You may have to consult the manufacturer’s website. However, we show you how to update the HP BIOS below usingHP PC Hardware Diagnostics.

Step 1:Download and install HP PC Hardware Diagnostics software on your computer.

Step 2:Launch the newly installed tool.

Step 3:Click theCheck for BIOS updatebutton under BIOS-System Firmware.

Step 4:If an update is available, click theAgreebutton to start the update. If you see a message like the one below, it means your computer is up to date.

Fix 2: Enable the Graphics Card and Confirm It Is Properly Inserted

When a graphics card is not detected, the connection between it and your motherboard may not have been proper. To determine if it is inserted correctly, you may check the Device Manager to see if it is listed. If not, you must take it apart and re-insert it physically. The steps will depend on your computer’s brand.

Step 1:Right-click theStartmenu and clickDevice Manager.

Step 2:ExpandDisplay Adaptersand verify your GPU driver is listed. If not, following the instructions from your manufacturer, you may open the computer and re-insert the GPU.

Fix 3: Update or Reinstall the Graphics Driver

When your graphics driver is outdated or corrupt, you may expect a few anomalies while using the computer. One such case is when Windows 11 does not detect the GPU. You need to update the driver or reinstall it. You may download an updated version from your manufacturer’s website or use the Device Manager utility, as shown below.

Step 1:Right-click theStartmenu and clickDevice Manager.

Step 2:Expand theDisplay adapterscategory, right-click your graphics driver, and clickUpdate driver.

Step 3:ClickSearch automatically for updatesand follow any onscreen instructions to complete the process.

Alternatively, you may reinstall the graphics driver by following the steps below.

Step 1:Right-click theStartmenu and clickDevice Manager.

Step 2:Expand theDisplay adapterscategory, double-click your graphics driver, and confirm your choice.

Step 3:Restart the computer, relaunch the Device Manager, and click on theScan for hardware changes icon.

Fix 4: Show and Enable Hidden GPU Driver

While your computer may have detected the GPU, there is a chance that it is hidden and disabled on the Device Manager. So, you should double-check if it shows up as a hidden driver, and then you may enable it. This solution will be useful, especially if the GPU is detected in the BIOS but not on the Windows 11 Device Manager.

Step 1:Right-click theStartmenu and clickDevice Manager.

Step 2:Click theViewmenu, then clickShow hidden devices.

Step 3:ExpandDisplay Adapters, right-click your driver, and clickEnable device.

Fix 5: Temporarily Disable Additional Hidden PCIe Devices

When your Windows 11 device is not detecting the GPU, you may have an issue with the PCIe controller, which manages PCIe slots on the motherboard. Conflicting devices are a primary cause of this driver issue. You should temporarily disable any additional PCIe devices. These are often hidden in the Device Manager.

Step 1:Right-click theStartmenu and clickDevice Manager.

Step 2:Click theViewmenu, then clickShow hidden devices.

Step 3:ExpandDisplay Adapters, right-click an additional PCIe driver, clickDisable device, and confirm your choice. You should repeat this process for every additional PCIe driver. Note that once you restart your computer, these drivers will be re-enabled.

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Last updated on 03 September, 2024

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