How to Reset Graphics Driver on Windows

Dec. 15, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows Driver Solutions

reset-graphics-driver-windows

Resetting the graphics driver on Windows is one of the most effective ways to fix display issues, performance drops, screen flickering, black screens, or crashes caused by GPU driver errors.

These problems often occur due to outdated, corrupted, or incompatible graphics drivers. This guide explains how to update your graphics driver with Driver Talent X first, followed by several proven methods to reset the graphics driver on Windows.


Update Graphics Driver First with Driver Talent X

Updating your graphics driver ensures system stability and reduces the risk of driver crashes. Driver Talent X automatically scans, repairs, and updates GPU drivers for NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel graphics cards.

Download Driver Talent

Download and Install:

  • Click the "Download" button to download the installer to your Windows PC.

  • Run the setup file, follow the on-screen instructions, and complete the installation process.

Scan Your Computer:

  • Launch the software and go to "Drivers" > "Scan", click "Scan".

  • Driver Talent X will detect outdated, missing, or corrupted drivers, including your graphics driver.

perform-scan

Update Windows Drivers:

  • After the scan is complete, the software will display a list of all drivers that need attention. You will see the current version and the recommended latest version.

  • Click the "Upgrade" or "Repair Now" button to download and install the official driver automatically. Wait for Driver Talent X to download and install the correct versions.

click-repair-now

Restart Your Computer:

  • Reboot your system to apply the updated driver correctly.

If display issues persist after updating, proceed with the reset methods below.


Methods to Reset Graphics Driver on Windows

Method 1: Reset Graphics Driver Using Keyboard Shortcut

This is the fastest way to refresh the graphics driver without restarting Windows.

  1. Press Windows + Ctrl + Shift + B at the same time.

  2. The screen may go blank or flicker briefly.

  3. You will hear a beep, indicating the graphics driver has restarted.

  4. Check if the display issue is resolved.

This method works on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Method 2: Restart Graphics Driver via Device Manager

  1. Press Windows + X and select "Device Manager".

  2. Expand Display adapters", right-click your graphics card and choose "Disable device".

    choose-disable-device

  3. Wait 10 seconds, then right-click again and select "Enable device".

  4. Close Device Manager and test display performance.

This method fully resets the graphics driver without reinstalling it.

Method 3: Reinstall Graphics Driver Completely

If resetting does not fix the issue, a clean reinstall may be required.

  1. Open Device Manager.

  2. Expand "Display adapters", right-click the graphics card and select "Uninstall device".

    select-uninstall-device

  3. Check "Delete the driver software for this device" if available.

  4. Restart your computer.

  5. Use Driver Talent X to reinstall the correct graphics driver automatically.

This method removes corrupted driver files and restores clean versions.

Method 4: Restart Windows Graphics Services

  1. Press Windows + R, type "services.msc", and press Enter.

  2. Locate "Display Enhancement Service" or GPU-related services.

  3. Right-click the service and select "Restart".

    restart-windows-graphics-services

  4. Close the Services window and test your display.

This helps resolve temporary driver communication issues.

Method 5: Reset Graphics Settings via Windows

  1. Open Settings using Windows + I.

  2. Go to System > Display > Graphics settings.

  3. Reset custom graphics preferences for apps.

  4. Restart your PC.

This method is useful when specific apps cause GPU crashes.


Common Issues Fixed by Resetting Graphics Driver

  • Screen flickering or flashing

  • Black screen after startup

  • Game crashes or low FPS

  • Display driver stopped responding error

  • External monitor not detected


Additional Tips

  1. Always keep graphics drivers updated using Driver Talent X.

  2. Avoid installing beta drivers unless necessary.

  3. Ensure Windows updates are fully installed.

  4. Monitor GPU temperature to prevent overheating-related crashes.

Download Driver Talent

Conclusion

Resetting the graphics driver on Windows is a quick and effective way to fix many display and performance problems. By first updating your graphics driver with Driver Talent X and then applying multiple reset methods, you can restore stable graphics performance and prevent recurring issues. Regular driver maintenance is essential for a smooth and reliable Windows experience.

See also:

Solutions to Fix Monster Hunter Wilds Crashes

How to Fix Split Fiction Not Launching on Windows

[Fixed] Whoa! Cyberpunk 2077 Flatlined Error

Solutions for 'DirectX 12 Not Supported' Error on Windows 10

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