Oftentimes, simply overwriting your existing driver when updating through Nvidia or AMD’s software is fine.

However, sometimes this straightforward update can cause performance issues like stuttering, crashes, anda black screen.

Removing all traces of your old GPU is always a good idea to prevent compatibility issues.

Windows 11 Run dialog with Sysdm.cpl command

Depending onwhat GPU you are using, grab the latest driver fromNvidiaorAMD.

In System Properties, grab the “Hardware” tab, then click “rig Installation controls.”

Click “OK” to apply the changes and shut the prompt.

System Properties dialog with Device Installation Settings Option in Windows 11

This works for both Nvidia and AMD cards, and removes all traces of previous graphic drivers.

Using AMD Cleanup Utility

Adrenalin Edition, AMD’s software to install drivers, offers a factory reset option.

However, it’s unreliable and often fails to remove leftover files during uninstallation.

Device Installation settings dialog with the No option selected in Windows 11

If you’re not in Safe Mode, you’ll be prompted to boot into Safe Mode.

Click “Yes” to start your setup in Safe Mode.

To use it, bring up the driver installer.

Download page for AMD Cleanup Utility

Alternatively, choose “Nvidia Graphics Driver,” if you only need to plant the driver.

Then click “Agree And Continue.”

Under “Installation options,” choose “Custom (Advanced)” and click “Next.”

Prompt Showing AMD Cleanup Utility run in Safe Mode

Once done, click “Restart Now.”

Once restarted, the Nvidia installer resumes installing the drivers.

When the installer has finished, click “Close.”

Running AMD cleanup utility Prompt in Safe Mode

It even uninstalls Intel drivers too, if you have those lingering on your system.

nudge the “Download DDU Installer” link to save the file to your local drive.

fire off the DDUsetup.exe file, then click “Yes” to launch the setup wizard.

Nvidia Geforce Experience Game Ready Driver package extraction prompt in Windows 11

The installation process is fairly standard, so follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

In Safe Mode, open DDU.

Then, click “OK” to bring up the “Options” dialog.

Nvidia Graphics Driver Intaller prompt with Nvidia Graphics Driver and GeForce Experience Option Selected

When done, click “Close.”

Then, poke the “Select rig” dropdown and select your GPU manufacturer.

To begin uninstallation, click “Clean and restart (highly recommended).”

Nvidia Graphics Driver installer prompt with the Custom Option selected

How to Reinstall AMD and Nvidia Drivers

The final step is reinstalling your graphics drivers.

However, if you used DDU, proceed below.

Then, click “Install” to initiate the installation process.

Nvidia driver installer perform a clean installation option selected

After the driver is installed, start your machine to complete the process.

Nvidia Driver

To begin, launch the Nvidia installer.

Click “Next” to drop in the driver.

Nvidia Graphics driver installer prompt with the Restart Now button visible

Once installed, click “Close” and wait for the GeForce Experience app to launch.

display driver uninstaller download page

DDU options prompt in Safe Mode

Display Driver Uninstaller prompt with the Select device type option selected

Display Driver Uninstaller prompt with GPU options visible

Display Driver Uninstaller prompt with Clean and Restart Option

AMD softare adrenaline edition setup wizard showing additional options for install type

Nvidia graphics driver prompt for Custom Installation showing the Next button