How to Fix NVIDIA GPU Not Detected on Windows 11/10

Jul. 20, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

fix-nvidia-gpu-not-detected-on-windows

When using Windows 11/10, some users may encounter an issue where the system fails to detect the NVIDIA graphics card. This can negatively impact device performance and prevent graphics-intensive applications or games from running properly.

This article explores the common causes and provides detailed troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the issue quickly.

I. Common Causes of NVIDIA Graphics Card Not Being Recognized

The graphics driver is not properly installed
The driver is corrupted or incompatible
The graphics card is not properly inserted or the hardware connection is loose
BIOS settings do not enable the dedicated GPU
Driver conflicts after a Windows update
Power supply or hardware failure

II. How to Fix NVIDIA Graphics Card Not Detected

Method 1: Check Graphics Card Status

Press Win + X and select "Device Manager".

Expand the "Display adapters" section.

If you only see "Microsoft Basic Display Adapter", it means the driver is not installed or the GPU is not recognized.

If the NVIDIA graphics card shows a yellow exclamation mark, there is a driver issue.

click-uninstall-device

Right-click on the NVIDIA device, choose "Uninstall device", check "Delete the driver software for this device", then restart your computer.

Tip: If no NVIDIA device appears in Device Manager, it might be due to hardware connection issues or BIOS settings.

Method 2: Update Graphics Drivers

Driver issues are a major reason for the system not recognizing the NVIDIA GPU. It's recommended to use a tool like Driver Talent, which automatically detects missing or faulty drivers and provides one-click repair.

Download Driver Talent

Download and install the latest version of Driver Talent.

Open the software and click "Scan".

Once the scan is complete, find the graphics driver in the list and click "Update".

driver-update

After the update, restart your computer to apply changes.

Method 3: Enable Dedicated GPU in BIOS

Some motherboards default to integrated graphics. You may need to manually enable the dedicated GPU:

Restart your computer and press Del/F2/F10 (depending on your motherboard brand) to enter the BIOS.
Go to the "Advanced" or "Chipset settings".
Set "Primary Display" or "Graphics Adapter to PEG (PCI-E Graphics)".
Save changes and exit BIOS. The system will reboot.

Method 4: Disable Automatic Driver Installation

Press Win + R, type "sysdm.cpl", and press Enter.

Go to the "Hardware" tab and click "Device Installation Settings".

Choose "No (your device might not work as expected)" and click "Save Changes".

disable-automatic-driver-installation

This prevents Windows from overwriting your installed NVIDIA drivers.

Method 5: Run Windows Troubleshooter

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.

Find "Hardware and Devices" and click "Run the troubleshooter".

run-windows-troubleshooter

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the fix.

III. Additional Suggestions

Check the Power Supply: Ensure your PSU provides enough power, some high-end GPUs require extra power cables.
Inspect GPU Slot and Power Cables: Reseat the graphics card and clean any dust.
Try Another Slot or Test GPU: If possible, test the GPU in another PCI-E slot or on another system to rule out hardware damage.