How To Update Gpu – A Simple Guide For Everyone!
You can update your GPU using automatic tools like GeForce Experience, Radeon Software, or Intel Driver Assistant, or manually download drivers and restart.
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how to update your GPU in an easy and simple way.
Why You Should Update Your GPU:
Before we dive into the steps, let’s first understand why you need to update your GPU. Here are some key reasons:
- Better Performance: Updating your GPU driver can lead to smoother graphics, faster rendering, and improved gaming performance.
- Bug Fixes: Sometimes, GPU updates fix bugs that could be causing crashes or glitches.
- Compatibility: New games, software, and operating systems might require newer versions of GPU drivers to run correctly.
- Security Improvements: Like any software, GPU drivers can have security vulnerabilities that are fixed through updates.
- New Features: Driver updates often bring new features that can enhance your overall computing experience.
Now that we understand the importance of updating your GPU, let’s look at the process.
Types of GPU Drivers:
Before updating, it’s important to identify which type of driver is required for your GPU. The three main categories are NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel. Each has its own update process.
- NVIDIA Drivers: For NVIDIA GPUs, such as the GeForce GTX or RXT series, you can update your drivers using GeForce Experience or manually download them from the official NVIDIA website for the latest updates and performance enhancements.
- AMD Drivers: If you use an AMD GPU (e.g., Radeon series), update your drivers via Radeon Software or manually download the latest drivers from AMD’s official website. Both methods ensure optimal gaming and software performance.
- Intel Drivers: For Intel integrated graphics, updates can be performed through Intel Driver & Support Assistant, which scans your system and automatically installs the latest drivers, ensuring your Intel GPU runs smoothly with the newest features.
How to Update Your GPU Drivers: Step-by-Step Guide:
Updating your GPU drivers is essential for maintaining optimal performance, improving compatibility with new software, and fixing bugs. There are two primary methods to update GPU drivers: automatically and manually. Below, we walk you through both methods with detailed steps for each.
Update GPU Drivers Automatically:
Updating GPU drivers automatically is the easiest and most convenient way to ensure your drivers are always up to date. Both NVIDIA and AMD offer software tools that handle the process for you. Intel also provides an automatic tool for integrated graphics. Here’s how to use these tools:
For NVIDIA GPUs: Using GeForce Experience:
GeForce Experience is NVIDIA’s official tool for automatic driver updates. It ensures your NVIDIA GPU is always running the latest drivers without needing manual downloads.
- Download GeForce Experience: Visit the NVIDIA website and download GeForce Experience.
- Install GeForce Experience: After downloading, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
- Login or Create an Account: Open the program, and log in with your NVIDIA account. If you don’t have an account, you can create one for free.
- Check for Updates: GeForce Experience will automatically check for driver updates when you launch the software. If a new version is available, a prompt will appear.
- Install the Update: Click “Download” next to the available update. GeForce Experience will download and install the new driver automatically.
Also read: What Is Gpu And Why Does It Support Ai – A Complete Guide!
For AMD GPUs: Using Radeon Software:
For AMD users, Radeon Software is the tool to use for automatic driver updates. It works similarly to GeForce Experience and will automatically detect and install the latest drivers for your AMD GPU.
- Download Radeon Software: Visit the AMD website to download Radeon Software.
- Install Radeon Software: Open the downloaded file and follow the installation steps to complete the setup.
- Open Radeon Software: Once installed, launch the software on your computer.
- Check for Updates: On the main screen, look for the “Check for Updates” button. Click it to see if a new driver version is available.
- Install the Update: If an update is found, click “Update” to begin the download and installation process. The software will handle everything automatically.
For Intel Integrated Graphics: Using Intel Driver & Support Assistant:
Intel users with integrated graphics can update drivers using the Intel Driver & Support Assistant.
- Download Intel Driver & Support Assistant: Go to the Intel website and download the Intel Driver & Support Assistant tool.
- Run the Assistant: After installation, run the tool, and it will automatically scan your system for outdated drivers.
- Download Updates: If there are updates for your Intel GPU, the tool will show them. Click the “Download” link to install the latest drivers.
Update GPU Drivers Manually:
If you prefer to manually download and install your GPU drivers, this method involves visiting the GPU manufacturer’s website and choosing the correct drivers for your hardware. While this method offers more control, it requires you to know your GPU model and operating system version.
For NVIDIA GPUs: Manual Installation:
If you need to manually update your NVIDIA drivers, follow these steps:
- Visit the NVIDIA Driver Download Page: Go to the NVIDIA Driver Download Page.
- Select Your GPU Model: Use the dropdown menus to select your specific GPU model and operating system. If you’re unsure of your GPU model, press Windows + X and select Device Manager to find out.
- Download the Driver: After selecting your GPU and OS, click the Search button. Then, click “Download” to get the latest driver version.
- Install the Driver: Once the driver is downloaded, open the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver.
For AMD GPUs: Manual Installation:
To manually update drivers for your AMD GPU, follow these steps:
- Go to the AMD Driver Download Page: Visit the AMD Driver Support page.
- Search for Your GPU Model: Use the search bar to find the exact model of your AMD GPU.
- Download the Latest Driver: Click the “Download” button next to the latest driver for your GPU.
- Install the Driver: After downloading the driver, open the installer and follow the instructions to install it on your system.
Also read: Low Gpu Utiliaztion Gaming Why – Why Does It Happen!
For Intel Integrated GPUs: Manual Installation
To manually update drivers for Intel integrated graphics, use the following steps:
- Visit Intel’s Driver Download Page: Go to Intel’s Driver Support Page.
- Search for Your Intel GPU: Use the search bar to find the drivers for your specific Intel integrated GPU.
- Download the Driver: Choose the appropriate driver and click Download.
- Install the Driver: Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver.
Restart Your Computer:
After updating your GPU drivers, it’s essential to restart your computer. This ensures that the new drivers are properly applied, allowing your system to recognize and use them effectively. Restarting can also resolve any issues that may arise from outdated drivers and improve overall system performance. By following the update steps, whether automatic or manual, you’ll ensure your GPU is optimized for the latest software and games.
FAQ’s
1. How do I know which GPU I have?
You can check your GPU by opening Device Manager (Windows + X), then selecting Display adapters to find the model.
2. What happens if I don’t update my GPU?
If you don’t update your GPU, you might face performance issues, crashes, or incompatibility with new games and software.
3. Can I update my GPU drivers automatically?
Yes, both NVIDIA and AMD offer tools (GeForce Experience and Radeon Software) that automatically check for and install the latest GPU drivers.
4. How do I manually update my GPU drivers?
Visit the official website of your GPU manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel), download the correct driver for your model, and follow the installation instructions.
5. Do I need to restart my PC after updating the GPU?
Yes, restarting your PC after a GPU driver update is essential to ensure the changes take effect and your system runs smoothly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, updating your GPU drivers is crucial for better performance, security, and compatibility with new software. You can update automatically using tools like GeForce Experience, Radeon Software, or Intel Driver Assistant, or manually via the manufacturer’s website. Regular updates enhance gameplay, fix bugs, and improve system efficiency, ensuring a smoother, more reliable computing experience overall.
