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How to Fix FSR Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Windows 11 users sometimes face issues with FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) not working as expected. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix common problems that prevent FSR from functioning correctly. Whether you’re new to FSR or just encountering this issue, the steps below are simple and easy to follow.

FSR is designed to improve game performance and image quality, but it requires proper setup and compatible hardware. Small configuration issues can stop it from working properly. Don’t worry — we will walk through each step together.

By the end of this guide, you should be able to identify the cause of the problem and get FSR running smoothly on your Windows 11 PC. Let’s begin with some quick checks.

Following these instructions carefully will save time and help avoid unnecessary complications.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before diving into troubleshooting, make sure of the following:

  • Your GPU supports FSR: FSR works with many AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards, but very old models may not be compatible.
  • Game supports FSR: Not all games have built-in support for FSR. Check if your game officially supports it.
  • Latest Graphics Drivers Installed: Outdated drivers often cause issues. Always keep your GPU drivers up to date.
  • Windows 11 is Updated: Ensure your operating system has the latest updates to avoid compatibility problems.
  • Game Settings Correctly Configured: Double-check that FSR is enabled inside the game’s video or graphics settings menu.

Step 1: Update Your Graphics Drivers

One of the simplest and most common reasons FSR doesn’t work is outdated or corrupted graphics drivers. Your GPU manufacturer regularly releases driver updates that improve performance and add new features like FSR support.

  1. Open Device Manager by searching for it in the Start menu.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section to see your graphics card.
  3. Right-click your GPU and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will look for the latest drivers.
  5. Alternatively, visit AMD or NVIDIA’s official website to download and install the latest drivers manually.
  6. Restart your computer after installation.

Updating drivers ensures your system can properly communicate with the hardware and use the latest features like FSR.

Step 2: Verify Game Compatibility and Settings

Even with the right hardware and drivers, FSR won’t work if the game doesn’t support it or if it’s not enabled properly.

  1. Open the game where FSR isn’t working.
  2. Navigate to the Graphics or Video settings menu.
  3. Look for an option labeled FidelityFX Super Resolution, FSR, or similar.
  4. Ensure FSR is turned on. Some games allow you to select different FSR quality modes (Performance, Balanced, Quality). Choose the one that suits your system.
  5. Save the settings and restart the game.

If you don’t see any FSR options, confirm that your game version supports it by checking the official documentation or forums.

Step 3: Check Windows Graphics Settings

Windows 11 includes some graphics settings that can affect how your GPU manages resources. Sometimes, disabling certain features or adjusting settings can fix issues with FSR.

  1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
  2. Go to System > Display > Graphics settings.
  3. Find your game’s executable (.exe) in the list or add it if it’s missing by clicking Browse.
  4. Click your game, then click Options.
  5. Set the graphics preference to High performance to force the game to use your dedicated GPU.
  6. Apply the changes and restart the game.

This ensures Windows prioritizes your powerful GPU for the game, which is essential for FSR to function properly.

Step 4: Disable Conflicting Software

Some third-party applications, such as screen recorders, overlays, or performance boosters, may interfere with FSR.

  • Temporarily disable or exit programs like Discord overlay, MSI Afterburner, RivaTuner, or any in-game overlays.
  • Try running the game again to see if FSR works.

If disabling these programs fixes the problem, consider adjusting their settings or updating them to avoid conflicts.

Step 5: Reinstall the Game or Reset Game Settings

If FSR still isn’t working, the game files or settings might be corrupted.

  1. Back up your saved games if necessary.
  2. Use the game launcher (Steam, Epic Games, etc.) to verify the integrity of game files or repair the installation.
  3. If verification doesn’t help, uninstall and then reinstall the game.
  4. After reinstalling, open the game and enable FSR again in the settings.

This step can fix issues caused by file corruption or incorrect configuration.

Step 6: Advanced: Use DirectX or Vulkan Settings

Some games allow you to select the graphics API (DirectX 11, DirectX 12, Vulkan). Sometimes switching between them can resolve FSR issues.

  1. Check your game’s graphics or launcher options for API selection.
  2. If using DirectX 12, try switching to DirectX 11 or Vulkan.
  3. Restart the game and test if FSR now works.

This is useful because some APIs may have better or worse support for FSR depending on the game.

FAQs

What is FSR and why is it important?

FSR stands for FidelityFX Super Resolution, a technology developed by AMD to boost game performance and improve image quality by upscaling lower-resolution images.

Does FSR work on NVIDIA GPUs?

Yes. FSR is an open technology and works on many modern NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards.

Why don’t I see FSR options in my game?

Not all games support FSR. Check the game’s official documentation or updates to confirm compatibility.

Can I use FSR with any resolution?

FSR works best when running games at lower resolutions and upscaling to higher ones, but it depends on game support.

Will updating Windows fix FSR issues?

Sometimes. Windows updates can improve system compatibility and fix bugs impacting graphics features.

Is FSR better than NVIDIA DLSS?

They serve similar purposes but use different technologies. DLSS requires NVIDIA RTX hardware, while FSR works on a wider range of GPUs.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and FSR still does not work, here are some final suggestions:

  • Check Official Support Forums: Visit the game’s official forums or AMD’s support pages for known issues and patches.
  • Contact Game Support: Some problems may be specific to the game version or your hardware.
  • Use System Restore or Reset: If the issue started recently, a system restore to an earlier point may help.
  • Consider Hardware Limitations: Older GPUs may not fully support FSR features.

Links to official resources:

Conclusion

Fixing FSR not working on Windows 11 usually involves simple steps like updating drivers, verifying game settings, and adjusting Windows graphics preferences. Starting with these basics ensures your system is ready to use FSR effectively.

If problems persist, more advanced troubleshooting like reinstalling the game or switching graphics APIs can help. Always check official support channels for the latest information and patches.

By following this guide, you can enjoy better game performance and visuals using FSR on your Windows 11 PC.

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