Integrated graphics are built into your computer’s processor or motherboard. They handle basic display functions without needing a separate graphics card.
Sometimes, the integrated graphics on Windows 11 may stop working properly. This can cause display issues like black screens, low resolution, or poor performance.
Fixing integrated graphics problems usually involves simple steps like updating drivers or changing settings.
This guide will walk you through easy and detailed solutions to get your integrated graphics working again on Windows 11.
Quick Note: Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates often fix bugs that affect hardware.
- Check if your PC actually uses integrated graphics or a separate graphics card.
- Have a stable internet connection to download necessary drivers or updates.
- Save your work before starting any troubleshooting, as some steps may require restarting your computer.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Restarting your PC is the simplest fix and often resolves temporary glitches. It refreshes system processes and hardware connections.
Click Start > Power > Restart. After rebooting, check if the integrated graphics issue is fixed.
Step 2: Check Device Manager for Graphics Status
Device Manager shows if your integrated graphics hardware is recognized and working correctly.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Display adapters section.
- Look for your integrated graphics device (usually labeled as Intel UHD Graphics, AMD Radeon, or similar).
- If there is a yellow exclamation mark or it’s missing, this indicates a problem.
If you see an issue here, the next step is to update or reinstall the driver.
Step 3: Update Integrated Graphics Driver
Drivers help your operating system communicate with the graphics hardware. Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause problems.
- In Device Manager, right-click your integrated graphics device.
- Select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look online for the latest driver.
- Follow the prompts to install any found updates.
- Restart your computer after installation.
If Windows can’t find an update, you can visit your PC manufacturer’s website or the graphics chip maker’s site (Intel, AMD) to download drivers manually.
Step 4: Reinstall Integrated Graphics Driver
If updating doesn’t help, reinstalling the driver can fix corrupted files.
- Open Device Manager and right-click your integrated graphics device.
- Select Uninstall device. Confirm any prompts.
- Restart your computer. Windows will try to reinstall the driver automatically.
- If Windows doesn’t reinstall it, download the driver manually from the manufacturer’s site and install it.
Step 5: Enable Integrated Graphics in BIOS
Sometimes integrated graphics are disabled in the BIOS settings, especially if a dedicated graphics card is present.
Enabling it can fix display issues or allow switching between GPUs.
- Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI by pressing the key shown during startup (usually F2, Delete, or Esc).
- Look for settings named Integrated Graphics, iGPU, or Internal Graphics under Advanced or Chipset menus.
- Make sure it is set to Enabled.
- Save changes and exit BIOS.
- Allow Windows to boot and check if the graphics work.
Note: Be careful in BIOS and only change settings you understand.
Step 6: Run Windows Troubleshooter for Hardware and Devices
Windows includes troubleshooters that can detect and fix common hardware problems automatically.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Hardware and Devices and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 7: Check Display Settings
Incorrect display settings can make it seem like integrated graphics aren’t working properly.
- Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
- Under Display resolution, choose the recommended native resolution for your monitor.
- Make sure the correct display is selected, especially if you use multiple monitors.
- Check the Graphics settings (found in Display settings) to ensure apps use the integrated GPU if needed.
Step 8: Update Windows 11
Microsoft regularly releases updates that improve hardware compatibility and fix bugs.
- Open Settings with Windows + I.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and restart your PC.
Alternative Method: Use System Restore
If the integrated graphics stopped working after a recent change, you can restore your system to an earlier point.
- Type Create a restore point in the Windows search bar and open it.
- Click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point dated before the problem began.
- Follow the instructions to restore your system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my integrated graphics not showing in Device Manager?
It could be disabled in BIOS, missing drivers, or hardware failure. Check BIOS settings and update or reinstall drivers.
Can I use integrated graphics and a dedicated graphics card together?
Some systems allow this, but usually, the dedicated card disables integrated graphics automatically. BIOS settings may control this.
How do I know if my PC has integrated graphics?
Most Intel and AMD processors include integrated graphics. You can check in Device Manager under Display adapters or look up your processor model online.
Will updating BIOS help fix graphics issues?
Sometimes BIOS updates fix hardware compatibility issues, but update BIOS only if other solutions fail and follow manufacturer instructions carefully.
Is it safe to uninstall and reinstall graphics drivers?
Yes, it is safe and often helpful. Just make sure you have the correct drivers ready for reinstalling.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and your integrated graphics still do not work, consider the following options:
- Contact your PC manufacturer’s support: They can provide device-specific help or repairs.
- Use Microsoft Support: Visit the official Windows Support website for guided troubleshooting.
- Consider hardware issues: Integrated graphics are part of your CPU or motherboard. If hardware failure is suspected, professional repair or replacement might be necessary.
- Use an external graphics card: If integrated graphics fail permanently, you may add a dedicated GPU if your system supports it.
Conclusion
Integrated graphics issues on Windows 11 can be caused by driver problems, BIOS settings, or system errors. Starting with simple fixes like restarting and updating drivers often resolves the problem quickly.
Checking BIOS, running troubleshooters, and adjusting display settings are important next steps for more stubborn issues.
Always keep your system and drivers updated, and back up important data before making major changes.
If problems persist, professional support or hardware repair may be needed. Following these steps will help you restore your integrated graphics and enjoy smooth display performance on Windows 11.