If your games aren’t running smoothly, your screen flickers, or your computer slows down during video playback, the culprit might be outdated graphics drivers. Whether you use Nvidia or AMD, keeping your GPU drivers updated is a quick way to improve performance and fix annoying issues.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to update graphics drivers safely, even if you’ve never done it before. No confusing terms, no complicated process, just a clear and easy method anyone can follow.
What Is a Graphics Driver and Why Does It Matter?
A graphics driver is a piece of software that helps your computer communicate with your graphics card (also called GPU). Think of it as a translator. Your operating system gives commands, and the graphics card needs to understand them in a very specific way.
Here’s what updated drivers can do for you:
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Improve gaming performance
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Fix bugs or crashes in software
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Support new games or applications
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Enhance image and video quality
If your GPU driver is out of date, you’re not getting the full performance your graphics card can provide.
How to Check Your Current Graphics Driver Version
Before updating, it’s helpful to know what you’re currently using.
On Windows 10 or 11
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Press Windows + R to open the Run window.
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Type
dxdiagand press Enter. -
Click the Display tab.
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Look for Driver Version and Driver Date.
If your driver is older than 6 months, it’s a good idea to update it.
Step-by-Step: How to Update Graphics Drivers Safely
Below are the methods for both Nvidia and AMD users.
For Nvidia Users: Nvidia Driver Update
Step 1: Identify Your GPU
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Right-click the desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
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Click System Information in the bottom-left corner.
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Note your GPU model (for example, GeForce GTX 1650 or RTX 4070).
Step 2: Download the Latest Driver
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Visit the official Nvidia drivers page.
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Enter your GPU model and operating system.
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Click Search, then click Download.
Tip: Do not use third-party sites. Only download from Nvidia’s official website.
Step 3: Install the Driver
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Open the downloaded file.
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Choose Custom Installation and check Perform a clean installation.
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Complete the installation by following the on-screen steps.
Restart your computer after installation.
For AMD Users: AMD Driver Fix
Step 1: Identify Your GPU
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Right-click on your desktop and open AMD Radeon Settings (or AMD Software).
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Click System, then select the Hardware tab.
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Note your GPU model (for example, Radeon RX 580 or RX 7600).
Step 2: Download the Latest Driver
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Go to the official AMD driver page.
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Choose your product family and exact model.
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Click Submit, then download the latest recommended driver.
Step 3: Install the Driver
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Run the installer.
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Choose Factory Reset if you want to remove old drivers before installing new ones.
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Let the installer complete the process and restart your system when prompted.
Can You Use Windows Update to Update Graphics Drivers?
Yes, but it has limitations.
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Pros: Simple to use and built into Windows
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Cons: Often includes older versions, not the latest drivers
If you mostly browse the internet or stream videos, this might be fine. However, for gaming or editing, it’s best to install the latest version directly from Nvidia or AMD.
Easier Method: Automatic Tools to Update GPU Drivers
If manual updates seem like too much effort, these tools can help.
1. NVIDIA GeForce Experience
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Automatically checks for the latest drivers
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Optimizes games based on your system
2. AMD Adrenalin Software
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One-click driver updates and game tuning
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Modern interface with clear settings
Once installed, these tools can handle updates with little input from you.
Common Problems After Updating Drivers and How to Fix Them
Not all updates go smoothly. Here are some possible issues and what to do.
Screen Flickers or Turns Black
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Restart your system
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If that doesn’t help, boot into Safe Mode and roll back the driver
Game Performance Gets Worse
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Do a clean install instead of a regular update
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Double-check that the correct driver was installed for your GPU
Driver Installation Fails
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Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to remove all old driver data
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Restart your computer and try the installation again
How Often Should You Update Graphics Drivers?
Here’s a simple guideline:
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Gamers: Check every month or when a new game comes out
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Video Editors and Designers: Every couple of months
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General Users: Once or twice a year is usually enough
If everything is working well, there’s no need to rush. Only update when there’s a reason to.
Final Thoughts on Updating Graphics Drivers
Knowing how to update graphics drivers is a small skill with a big impact. Whether you’re playing games, editing photos, or simply watching videos, updating your GPU can improve performance, reduce crashes, and make everything feel smoother.
Remember:
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Always download drivers from official websites
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Use clean installation options when possible
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Restart your system to apply changes properly
If you do this regularly, your computer will stay fast and reliable without any complicated maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1.What happens if I don’t update my graphics drivers?
If you don’t update your drivers, you may experience lag, crashes, poor game performance, or even compatibility issues with new software or games.
2.Is it safe to update graphics drivers?
Yes, as long as you download the drivers directly from the official Nvidia or AMD website. Avoid third-party download sites.
3.Can updating drivers damage my GPU?
No, updating drivers correctly will not damage your GPU. However, installing the wrong driver or using untrusted tools can cause system errors, so always use official sources.
4.Do I need to uninstall the old driver before installing the new one?
Not always. But for best results, especially if you’re switching GPU versions or having issues, use a clean installation or uninstall the old driver using DDU.
5.Will updating GPU drivers make my games run faster?
It can. Driver updates often include performance improvements, bug fixes, and optimizations for new games, so updating can lead to smoother gameplay.