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How to Fix Multiple GPU Not Working Errors on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Using multiple GPUs in Windows 11 can significantly boost your computer’s performance, especially for gaming, video editing, or 3D rendering. However, sometimes users face issues where both GPUs don’t work correctly or one GPU is not recognized. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix multiple GPU not working errors with simple, step-by-step solutions.

Whether you have a dedicated graphics card paired with an integrated GPU or a setup with two dedicated GPUs, these steps apply to most scenarios. The goal is to get your system recognizing and using both GPUs efficiently.

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand that multiple GPU configurations require proper hardware support and compatible drivers. Windows 11 also needs correct settings to manage these devices.

Follow the steps carefully, starting from the easiest fixes to more advanced options.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check hardware compatibility: Ensure your motherboard supports multiple GPUs and that your power supply can handle the power requirements.
  • Verify GPU installation: Physically check that all GPUs are properly seated in their PCIe slots and connected to power cables if required.
  • Update Windows: Make sure your Windows 11 system is up to date to avoid compatibility issues.
  • Backup important data: Before making driver changes or BIOS adjustments, backing up your data is always a good precaution.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. Restarting your PC can refresh system processes and clear temporary glitches causing GPUs not to be detected.

After reboot, check if both GPUs are recognized by:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Look for both GPUs listed. If you see both, your system is recognizing them.

Step 2: Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted GPU drivers are a common cause of multiple GPU issues. Updating or reinstalling drivers ensures your system communicates properly with both GPUs.

How to Update Drivers

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand Display adapters.
  3. Right-click your first GPU and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow prompts.
  5. Repeat for the second GPU if listed.
  6. Alternatively, visit the GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download the latest drivers.

How to Reinstall Drivers

If updating doesn’t work, try reinstalling:

  1. Open Device Manager and right-click your GPU under Display adapters.
  2. Choose Uninstall device and check Delete the driver software for this device.
  3. Restart your PC to allow Windows to automatically reinstall drivers.

Step 3: Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

The BIOS or UEFI firmware controls hardware initialization. Sometimes multiple GPUs need to be enabled or configured here.

How to access BIOS/UEFI:

  1. Restart your PC.
  2. Press the designated key to enter BIOS during boot (usually Del, F2, or F10).

What to check:

  • Look for settings related to PCIe slots or GPU configuration.
  • Enable multi-GPU support, if available (terms like “PEG/PCI”, “Multi-GPU”, or “SLI/Crossfire” may appear).
  • Make sure integrated GPU is enabled if you intend to use it alongside a dedicated GPU.
  • Save changes and exit BIOS.

Note: BIOS interfaces vary by manufacturer. Consult your motherboard manual for precise instructions.

Step 4: Configure Graphics Settings in Windows 11

Windows 11 allows you to specify which GPU each application should use. This can help if apps are defaulting to the wrong GPU.

  1. Open Settings (Win + I).
  2. Go to System > Display > Graphics (at the bottom).
  3. Click Browse and add the application you want to configure.
  4. Click on the app, select Options.
  5. Choose Power saving (usually integrated GPU) or High performance (dedicated GPU).
  6. Click Save.

This feature helps ensure your apps use the correct GPU, especially when multiple GPUs are present.

Step 5: Use Manufacturer Software for Multi-GPU Management

Many GPU manufacturers provide software to manage multiple GPUs:

  • NVIDIA Control Panel: Manage SLI settings and GPU preferences.
  • AMD Radeon Software: Control Crossfire and GPU profiles.

Open these applications to check if multi-GPU features are enabled and configured properly. Sometimes these settings override Windows defaults.

Step 6: Update or Reset Windows Graphics Stack (Advanced)

If the problem persists, resetting Windows’ graphics components can help:

  • Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
  • Run the following commands one by one:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow

These commands scan and repair system files that might affect GPU drivers or display components.

FAQs

Why is my second GPU not showing up in Device Manager?

This can happen if the GPU is not properly seated, powered, or if drivers are missing. Also, BIOS settings may disable secondary GPUs.

Can I use integrated and dedicated GPUs at the same time?

Yes, Windows 11 supports hybrid graphics. However, it depends on your system configuration and BIOS support.

What is SLI or Crossfire?

SLI (NVIDIA) and Crossfire (AMD) are technologies that allow multiple GPUs to work together to improve performance. They require compatible GPUs and software support.

Do I need to keep both GPU drivers updated?

Yes. Keeping all GPU drivers updated ensures compatibility and performance.

Is multiple GPU support different on laptops?

Many laptops use NVIDIA Optimus or similar technologies to switch between integrated and dedicated GPUs. This setup requires specific drivers and software.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and your multiple GPUs still do not work, consider the following:

  • Check hardware health: Test GPUs individually to ensure they are functioning properly.
  • Consult your motherboard and GPU manuals: Look for specific multi-GPU setup instructions.
  • Contact support: Visit official NVIDIA, AMD, or your PC manufacturer’s support pages for troubleshooting guides and driver downloads:
  • Consider professional help: Hardware issues or BIOS configurations can sometimes require expert assistance.

Conclusion

Fixing multiple GPU not working errors in Windows 11 involves a combination of hardware checks, driver updates, BIOS configuration, and system settings. Starting with simple restarts and driver updates can resolve many problems. If issues persist, delve into BIOS settings and advanced Windows repairs.

Remember to verify hardware compatibility and always keep your system updated. Proper configuration through Windows and manufacturer software ensures your GPUs work together efficiently. With patience and following these steps, you can make the most of your multi-GPU setup on Windows 11.

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