How to Update Graphics Driver in Windows 11 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Keeping your graphics driver updated in Windows 11 helps fix display issues, improves gaming performance, and ensures compatibility with the latest apps and games. Outdated or corrupted GPU drivers are one of the most common causes of screen flickering, crashes, black screens, and low FPS.

Windows 11 relies heavily on modern graphics drivers for:

• Smooth UI animations
• Stable gaming performance
• Video playback and streaming
• App compatibility and DirectX features

If your driver is outdated, Windows may still work, but problems often appear after system updates, new game installs, or GPU-intensive tasks.

Method 1: Update Graphics Driver Using Windows Update (Best for Most Users)

Windows Update is the safest and easiest option, especially for laptops and office PCs.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings
2. Go to Windows Update
3. Click Advanced options
4. Select Optional updates
5. Expand Driver updates
6. If a graphics driver is listed, select it
7. Click Download & install
8. Restart your PC after installation

Why this method works:

• Drivers are tested by Microsoft for Windows 11
• Lowest risk of compatibility issues
• Ideal for Intel graphics and OEM laptops

Method 2: Update Graphics Driver via Device Manager

Use this method if Windows Update does not show any driver updates.

Steps:

1. Right-click the Start button
2. Select Device Manager
3. Expand Display adapters
4. Right-click your GPU (Intel, NVIDIA, or AMD)
5. Click Update driver
6. Choose Search automatically for drivers
7. Let Windows install the available driver
8. Restart your PC

When this helps:

• Driver corruption issues
• Display problems after Windows updates
• Missing or incorrect GPU detection

Method 3: Update Graphics Driver from Manufacturer Website (Recommended for Gaming)

This method gives you the latest official driver, often newer than what Windows provides.

Step 1: Identify Your Graphics Card

1. Press Windows + R
2. Type dxdiag and press Enter
3. Open the Display tab
4. Note your GPU name and manufacturer

Step 2: Download the Correct Driver

Visit the official website:

• Intel Graphics – Intel Driver & Support Assistant
• NVIDIA – GeForce Drivers page
• AMD – Radeon Software page

Choose:

• Windows 11 (64-bit)
• Correct GPU model
• Latest stable release

Step 3: Install the Driver

1. Run the downloaded installer
2. Follow on-screen instructions
3. Restart your PC when prompted

Best for:

• Gaming PCs
• Fixing FPS drops
• New game compatibility
• GPU-related crashes

Method 4: Update Using GPU Control Software (If Installed)

Some systems come with built-in GPU software.

Common tools:

• NVIDIA GeForce Experience
• AMD Adrenalin Software
• Intel Arc Control

Steps:

1. Open the GPU software
2. Go to the Drivers section
3. Check for updates
4. Download and install
5. Restart your PC

This method is convenient and keeps drivers updated automatically.

How to Check If Your Graphics Driver Is Updated

1. Open Device Manager
2. Expand Display adapters
3. Right-click your GPU → Properties
4. Open the Driver tab
5. Check Driver Version and Driver Date

If the date has changed, the update was successful.

Should You Update Graphics Drivers Regularly?

Update your driver if:

• Games or apps crash
• Screen flickers or turns black
• You installed a new game
• You recently upgraded to Windows 11

You can skip updates if:

• Your system is stable
• You don’t use GPU-heavy apps
• No display issues are present

FAQs: Update Graphics Driver Windows 11

How do I update my graphics driver in Windows 11?

You can update your graphics driver in Windows 11 using Windows Update, Device Manager, or by downloading the latest driver directly from the GPU manufacturer’s official website.

Is it safe to update graphics drivers on Windows 11?

Yes, updating graphics drivers on Windows 11 is safe when done through Windows Update or official Intel, NVIDIA, or AMD websites. Avoid third-party driver tools.

Why should I update my graphics driver in Windows 11?

Updating your graphics driver improves performance, fixes display issues, prevents crashes, and ensures compatibility with new games and applications.

Which method is best to update graphics driver in Windows 11?

Windows Update is best for most users. For gaming or performance issues, downloading the latest driver from the GPU manufacturer provides better results.

How often should I update graphics drivers in Windows 11?

You should update your graphics driver when you experience display problems, install new games, or after major Windows 11 updates. Regular users do not need frequent updates.

What happens if I don’t update my graphics driver?

If you don’t update your graphics driver, you may face screen flickering, low FPS, app crashes, or compatibility issues with newer software.

Can a graphics driver update cause problems in Windows 11?

Rarely, a new driver may cause issues. If that happens, you can roll back the driver using Device Manager or reinstall a stable version from the manufacturer.

How do I check if my graphics driver is already up to date?

Open Device Manager, expand Display adapters, right-click your GPU, select Properties, and check the driver version and date under the Driver tab.

Do I need separate drivers for Intel, NVIDIA, and AMD graphics?

Yes. Each GPU brand uses its own drivers. Always download drivers only from the official Intel, NVIDIA, or AMD websites.

Does Windows 11 automatically update graphics drivers?

Yes, Windows 11 can automatically update graphics drivers through Windows Update, but it may not always install the latest version available.

Updating graphics drivers in Windows 11 is a software-only fix that can solve many performance and display problems. For most users, Windows Update is enough, while gamers and power users should rely on official manufacturer drivers.

Keeping your GPU driver updated ensures better stability, smoother visuals, and long-term system health.