How to Fix Graphics Card Issues After BIOS Update on Windows 11/10

Key Notes

  • Power cycling your PC can resolve many hardware issues.
  • Clearing CMOS will reset your BIOS settings and may help in detection issues.
  • Always update drivers from official manufacturer sites to prevent compatibility issues.

Troubleshooting Graphics Card Malfunctions Post BIOS Update on Windows

BIOS updates are important for system optimization and hardware compatibility. However, issues post-update, especially concerning graphics cards, can be disconcerting. This guide will detail efficient strategies to rectify problems with graphics cards following a BIOS update on Windows machines.

Fixing Graphics Card Issues After BIOS Update on Windows 11/10

If your graphics card has stopped functioning properly following a BIOS update, consider the following solutions:

Step 1: Power Cycle Your Computer

The first action to consider is a simple power cycle. Follow these steps:

  1. Shut down your computer completely.
  2. Unplug the power cord from the outlet and detach all connected peripherals.
  3. Allow a few minutes of inactivity, then reconnect your peripherals and power cord.
  4. Turn your computer back on.

Step 2: Clear CMOS and Reseat Your Graphics Card

If powering down doesn’t resolve the issue, you can clear the CMOS. Here’s how:

Open your computer case carefully. Locate the small, round CMOS battery, gently remove it, and wait a few moments. Afterward, reinsert the battery, which resets your BIOS settings to defaults.

Subsequently, remove and reseat your dedicated graphics card to ensure firm connection.

Step 3: Update Your Graphics Card Driver

Following a BIOS update, it’s crucial to ensure your graphics card drivers are up-to-date. Visit the official website of your graphics card’s manufacturer to download the latest driver version. Execute the installer file to complete the update.

Step 4: Perform a Clean Installation of Your Graphics Card Driver

If updates don’t rectify the issue, attempt a clean installation of your graphics card driver by uninstalling existing drivers completely with a tool like Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU). Alternatively, if available, utilize a specific application such as NVIDIA GeForce Experience for the clean setup.

Step 5: Check the Status of the Intel PCIe Controller Driver

The PCIe Controller serves as a vital link between your motherboard and external devices. After a BIOS update, a corrupted PCIe driver can affect your graphics card’s detectability. Access Device Manager, expand the System Devices section, and check for warning signs next to the PCIe Driver. If issues are present, investigate and troubleshoot as necessary.

Step 6: Reset Your Computer

As a last resort, consider resetting your PC. You can opt for the Keep my files option during the reset to preserve personal data. Nonetheless, for safety, backup your important files prior to this step.

Additional Tips

  • Always verify your BIOS version compatibility with your graphics card.
  • Check for and remove any conflicts in Device Manager.
  • Consider consulting your manufacturer’s support for specialized help.

Summary

Hardware issues, particularly with graphics cards, can arise following BIOS updates. The above steps—power cycling your PC, clearing CMOS, updating drivers, checking system device drivers, and resetting your PC—offer effective solutions to restore graphical functionality.

Conclusion

BIOS updates play a crucial role in maintaining system integrity. Should you encounter graphics card issues after an update, the solutions outlined in this guide can help troubleshoot and resolve these disruptions, ensuring optimal performance of your system.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How do I fix GPU not detected in BIOS?

If your graphics card isn’t visible in BIOS, check and secure all connection cables to the graphics card and motherboard, and try installing the GPU in a different system to verify its functionality.

What are the signs of GPU failure?

Indicators of a failing GPU include frequent screen artifacts, unusual noises from the GPU fans, significant drops in framerate, and unexpected crashes during graphics-intensive applications or games.