How to Fix DLSS Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions for Common Errors

DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) is a powerful technology that enhances gaming performance on supported NVIDIA graphics cards. However, sometimes it may stop working on Windows 11, causing frustration for gamers.

This guide will help you understand how to fix common DLSS issues step-by-step. Each solution is explained in a simple, easy-to-follow way so that even beginners can troubleshoot effectively.

Whether DLSS is not showing up in your game settings or causing crashes, these solutions cover the most typical problems and ways to resolve them.

By following these steps carefully, you should be able to restore DLSS functionality and enjoy smoother gameplay.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Confirm Your GPU Supports DLSS: DLSS only works on NVIDIA RTX series graphics cards. Check your GPU model by typing dxdiag in the Windows search bar and looking under the Display tab.
Make Sure Your Game Supports DLSS: Not all games include DLSS support. Visit the game’s official website or NVIDIA’s DLSS supported titles list.
Update Windows 11: Running the latest version of Windows 11 ensures better compatibility with drivers and software.
Check Your Internet Connection: DLSS may require online activation or updates, so ensure you have a stable connection.

Step 1: Update NVIDIA Graphics Drivers

Outdated drivers are the most common cause of DLSS not working. NVIDIA frequently releases updates that improve DLSS performance and fix bugs.

Visit the official NVIDIA driver download page.
Select your graphics card model and Windows 11 as your operating system.
Download and install the latest Game Ready Driver.
Restart your computer to apply changes.

Why this helps: Updated drivers include new DLSS optimizations and compatibility fixes, which are essential for DLSS to function properly.

Step 2: Enable DLSS in Game Settings

Some games require you to manually enable DLSS in their graphics settings.

Launch your game and navigate to the graphics or video settings menu.
Look for the DLSS option, which may be under advanced settings or performance options.
Select the DLSS mode you prefer (Quality, Balanced, or Performance) depending on your focus.
Apply the settings and restart the game if necessary.

Why this matters: DLSS is not always turned on by default and must be enabled for the game to use the technology.

Step 3: Verify DirectX and System Compatibility

DLSS requires DirectX 12 Ultimate or later to function. Ensuring your system supports this is crucial.

Press Windows + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
In the Display tab, check the Feature Levels to confirm at least DirectX 12 support.
If your system lacks DirectX 12, update Windows or consider hardware upgrades.

Why this step is important: DLSS depends on modern DirectX features for rendering and AI processing.

Step 4: Check for Conflicting Software

Sometimes, third-party applications or overlays can interfere with DLSS functionality.

Temporarily disable overlays such as Discord, GeForce Experience, or recording software.
Close any background apps that may be using GPU resources.
Restart your game and check if DLSS works again.

Why try this: Conflicts between software can prevent DLSS from activating or cause graphical glitches.

Step 5: Reinstall the Game and NVIDIA Drivers

If the above steps do not fix the issue, reinstalling can resolve corrupted files or settings.

Uninstall the game via the Windows Settings or the game launcher.
Uninstall NVIDIA drivers using the Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) tool for a clean removal.
Reinstall the latest NVIDIA drivers from the official site.
Reinstall your game and check DLSS functionality again.

Why this is useful: Corrupted files or incomplete installs can break DLSS support, and a fresh install ensures everything is reset.

Alternative and Advanced Solutions

If DLSS still does not work, consider these options:

Update Your BIOS and Chipset Drivers: Sometimes system firmware and chipset drivers impact GPU performance.
Use NVIDIA Control Panel: Open NVIDIA Control Panel, navigate to “Manage 3D Settings,” and ensure DLSS is enabled globally or for specific games.
Check Power Settings: Set your power plan to “High Performance” to avoid throttling that may disable advanced GPU features.
Reset Game Config Files: Delete or rename the game’s config files to reset graphics settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why is DLSS not showing up in my game?

A: Ensure your GPU supports DLSS and that the game itself includes DLSS support. Also, update your drivers and check game settings to enable DLSS.

Q: Can DLSS work on non-RTX GPUs?

A: No, DLSS requires the Tensor Cores found only on NVIDIA RTX series GPUs.

Q: Does DLSS work with all Windows 11 versions?

A: DLSS requires Windows 11 with the latest updates installed to ensure compatibility with DirectX 12 Ultimate features.

Q: Will updating drivers fix DLSS issues?

A: Most of the time, yes. Driver updates include important fixes and optimizations for DLSS.

Q: Is DLSS available in all games?

A: No, only games that explicitly support DLSS will have this option available.

When Nothing Works

If after trying all the above steps DLSS still does not function, here are a few final options:

Visit the NVIDIA GeForce Forums for community help and support.
Check the official support page of your game for known DLSS issues or patches.
Contact NVIDIA customer support for detailed troubleshooting.
Consider performing a system restore to a point where DLSS was working, if applicable.

Conclusion

DLSS is a valuable feature for improving gaming performance and visual quality on Windows 11, but issues can arise due to driver problems, compatibility, or software conflicts. By following the step-by-step solutions provided, including updating drivers, enabling DLSS in game settings, and verifying system requirements, most users can resolve DLSS problems effectively.

If advanced troubleshooting is needed, alternative methods such as reinstalling drivers or adjusting system settings can help. Remember to check official resources and community forums when you encounter persistent issues.

With patience and careful troubleshooting, you can enjoy the benefits of DLSS and a smoother gaming experience on your Windows 11 PC.