After updating to Windows 11 Creators Update, some users may encounter the “Display-Not-Compatible” error. This issue prevents the display from working correctly and can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are simple solutions you can try to fix this problem.
This guide will walk you through easy, step-by-step methods to resolve the display compatibility error. No advanced technical skills are needed, and each step includes explanations to help you understand why it’s necessary.
By following these instructions, you should be able to restore your display functionality quickly and safely. Let’s begin with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.
Remember, careful troubleshooting saves time and avoids unnecessary changes to your system.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks Before You Start
Before trying any fixes, make sure you have the following in place to avoid complications:
- Backup your important data: It’s always good practice to save your files before making system changes.
- Check your monitor and cables: Ensure that your display cables (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA) are securely connected and undamaged.
- Confirm your system meets Windows 11 requirements: Some display errors arise if hardware isn’t fully compatible with the update.
- Have a stable internet connection: You might need to download drivers or updates during the process.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches caused by updates. Restarting your PC refreshes system processes and drivers, which might fix the display error.
- Click on the Start button.
- Select the Power icon.
- Choose Restart and wait for your PC to reboot.
After restarting, check if the display works correctly. If not, move to the next step.
Step 2: Update Your Display Drivers
Display drivers are software that allow Windows to communicate with your monitor and graphics card. An outdated or incompatible driver often causes display errors after updates.
How to update drivers automatically:
- Press Windows + X keys and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Display adapters section.
- Right-click on your graphics card and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest driver and install it if available.
Restart your computer after the update. This ensures the new driver loads properly.
Alternative method: Download drivers from manufacturer’s website
If Windows cannot find a suitable driver, visit your graphics card manufacturer’s site (such as NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel). Search for your exact model and download the latest Windows 11 compatible driver. Install it manually by running the downloaded file.
Step 3: Change Display Settings to Compatible Resolution
Sometimes, the error appears because Windows tries to use a screen resolution or refresh rate that your monitor does not support. Adjusting these settings can fix the issue.
- Right-click on your desktop and select Display settings.
- Scroll down to Display resolution and choose a lower or recommended resolution from the dropdown menu.
- Click Apply. Confirm if the new resolution works.
- If the problem persists, click on Advanced display settings and check the refresh rate. Choose a standard refresh rate like 60Hz.
Lowering these settings ensures compatibility with your monitor, preventing errors.
Step 4: Roll Back to Previous Display Driver
If the problem started right after updating your display driver, rolling back to the older version might help.
- Open Device Manager again.
- Expand Display adapters and right-click your graphics card.
- Select Properties and go to the Driver tab.
- Click Roll Back Driver if the option is available.
- Follow the prompts and restart your PC.
This restores the previous driver version, which may be more stable with your hardware.
Step 5: Run Windows Update
Microsoft often releases patches that fix compatibility issues after major updates. Running Windows Update ensures you have all the latest fixes and security improvements.
- Click on Start and open Settings.
- Navigate to Windows Update from the sidebar.
- Click Check for updates. Download and install any available updates.
- Restart your computer once updates complete.
Alternative Advanced Option: Use Compatibility Mode for Drivers
If the latest drivers are still incompatible, you can try installing older drivers in compatibility mode.
- Download an earlier version of the driver from the manufacturer’s website.
- Right-click the driver setup file and select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select Windows 10 or earlier.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Run the setup file to install the driver.
This method helps when new drivers are not yet fully compatible with Windows 11 Creators Update.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does the “Display-Not-Compatible” error appear after a Windows update?
This error usually happens because the graphics driver or display settings are not compatible with the new Windows update. Updates can change system files, requiring updated drivers or settings adjustments.
Can I fix this error without downloading new drivers?
Sometimes, adjusting display resolution or refresh rate settings can solve the issue without driver updates. However, updating drivers is often the most reliable solution.
Is it safe to roll back drivers?
Yes, rolling back to a previous driver is safe and reverses recent driver changes. It is a good troubleshooting step if new drivers cause problems.
What if my monitor still shows no display after these steps?
Try connecting your PC to a different monitor or TV to determine if the issue is with the display hardware. Also, verify that cables are intact and properly connected.
Will Microsoft fix this issue in future updates?
Microsoft regularly releases updates to address compatibility problems. Keeping your system updated increases the chances of resolving such errors.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and still see the display error, consider these final options:
- Contact Microsoft Support: Official help may provide personalized solutions for your hardware.
- Visit your device manufacturer’s support site: They may offer firmware updates or specialized drivers.
- Use System Restore: Restore your PC to a point before the Creators Update if possible.
- Reinstall Windows 11: As a last resort, a fresh installation can reset all system files and drivers.
Remember to backup important files before attempting advanced recovery options.
Conclusion
The “Display-Not-Compatible” error after the Windows 11 Creators Update can be resolved by following a series of straightforward steps. Start with simple fixes like restarting your PC and updating drivers. Adjust display settings if needed, and consider rolling back drivers if new ones cause problems.
Keeping your system and drivers up-to-date is essential for smooth performance. When basic methods don’t work, advanced options like compatibility mode or contacting official support can help. By carefully following the steps here, you can restore your display and continue using your PC without disruptions.