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How to Fix “Windows Display Settings Could Not Be Saved” Error in Windows 11

Sometimes, when you try to change your display settings in Windows 11, you may encounter the error message “Windows Display Settings Could Not Be Saved.” This error can be frustrating because it stops you from customizing your screen resolution, orientation, or multiple display setups.

Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix this issue without needing advanced technical knowledge. This guide will walk you through easy and detailed steps to resolve the problem.

By following these instructions carefully, you should be able to save your display settings successfully and improve your overall Windows experience.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting steps.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Restart your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart clears temporary glitches that cause display settings errors.
  • Check for Windows updates: Outdated system files can cause compatibility issues with display drivers.
  • Ensure your display cables are properly connected: Loose or damaged cables can interfere with display detection.
  • Verify your graphics driver status: Drivers control your display hardware, so outdated or corrupted drivers often cause errors.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Before trying anything complex, restart your computer. This step is important because it refreshes the operating system and clears temporary files that might block changes to display settings.

To restart, click on the Start button, select the Power icon, and then choose Restart. After your PC reboots, try changing the display settings again.

Step 2: Update Windows to the Latest Version

Running the latest Windows updates ensures your system has all the fixes and improvements from Microsoft, which can resolve bugs causing display errors.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Windows Update from the left sidebar.
  3. Click Check for updates. If updates are found, download and install them.
  4. Restart your computer if prompted.

After updating, try adjusting the display settings again to see if the problem persists.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall Display Drivers

Display drivers manage how your PC communicates with your monitor. If they are outdated or corrupted, Windows may fail to save display changes.

How to Update Display Drivers

  1. Press Windows + X keys together and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section to see your graphics card(s).
  3. Right-click on your graphics device and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest driver online and install it.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the error is fixed.

How to Reinstall Display Drivers

If updating does not fix the issue, try reinstalling the driver:

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Right-click your graphics device under Display adapters and choose Uninstall device.
  3. In the confirmation box, check Delete the driver software for this device (if available), then click Uninstall.
  4. Restart your computer. Windows will attempt to reinstall the default driver automatically.

If Windows does not reinstall the driver, visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website (such as NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download and install the latest driver manually.

Step 4: Run the Display Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters that scan for common problems and fix them automatically.

  1. Open Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  2. Find Display or Hardware and Devices and click Run.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool can detect issues related to display settings and resolve them without manual intervention.

Step 5: Check for Conflicting Software or Background Apps

Sometimes, third-party apps such as screen recorders, virtual desktop managers, or display enhancers can interfere with your display settings.

To check this:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Look for any suspicious or display-related apps running in the background.
  3. Right-click on the app and select End task.
  4. Try changing your display settings again.

If the error disappears, you may need to uninstall or update the conflicting software.

Step 6: Reset Display Settings to Default

If your display settings are corrupted, resetting them can help.

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
  2. Scroll down and click Advanced display settings.
  3. Click Display adapter properties for Display 1 (or the display showing issues).
  4. In the new window, navigate to the Color Management tab and click Color Management…
  5. Go to the Advanced tab and click Change system defaults…
  6. Under the Devices tab, select your monitor and click Remove if any profiles are listed, then click Close.
  7. Click OK to close all windows.
  8. Restart your PC and try setting your display settings again.

Alternative Method: Use Safe Mode to Change Display Settings

If the error continues, try booting into Safe Mode, which loads only essential drivers and services. This environment can help you change display settings without interference.

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Boot tab and check Safe boot, then select Minimal.
  3. Click OK and restart your computer.
  4. Once in Safe Mode, try changing your display settings.
  5. To exit Safe Mode, repeat steps 1-3 but uncheck Safe boot, then restart.

FAQs

Why does Windows say “Display settings could not be saved”?

This error usually occurs due to outdated or corrupted display drivers, incompatible resolution or refresh rate settings, or conflicts with background apps or system files.

Can changing the screen resolution cause this error?

Yes, setting a resolution or refresh rate not supported by your monitor or graphics card can trigger this error.

Is it safe to uninstall display drivers?

Yes, uninstalling and reinstalling display drivers is safe and often recommended to fix driver-related issues. Just make sure to have the latest drivers ready for reinstalling.

Will updating Windows fix display setting errors?

Updating Windows can help because it includes bug fixes and driver updates that improve hardware compatibility.

What if my display settings keep resetting after a reboot?

This may indicate driver problems or corrupted user profiles. Try creating a new user account or reinstalling drivers as described above.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the error, consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: They can provide specialized assistance for your system.
  • Visit your PC or graphics card manufacturer’s support site: Look for known issues or firmware updates.
  • Perform a System Restore: If the problem started recently, restoring your PC to an earlier date can fix system conflicts.
  • Reset Windows: As a last resort, resetting Windows 11 can fix deep system issues but will remove apps and settings. Make sure to back up your data.

Conclusion

The “Windows Display Settings Could Not Be Saved” error in Windows 11 can stop you from customizing your screen properly, but it is usually fixable with simple steps. Start by restarting your PC and updating Windows, then move on to updating or reinstalling display drivers.

Using built-in troubleshooters and checking for conflicting software can also resolve the issue. If needed, reset your display settings or use Safe Mode to make changes without interference.

If all else fails, official support and system restore options are available. By following this guide step-by-step, you can regain control over your display settings and enjoy a smooth Windows experience.

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