Rolling back NVIDIA drivers on Windows 10 can be a lifesaver when your new driver update leads to unexpected glitches or performance issues. A rollback is a straightforward process that essentially reverts your driver to a previous version, ensuring your system runs smoothly again. This guide will walk you through each step to confidently roll back your NVIDIA drivers.
How to Roll Back NVIDIA Drivers Windows 10
Rolling back NVIDIA drivers in Windows 10 involves a few simple steps that will help you revert to a previous, more stable version of the driver.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
Open the Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting it from the menu.
The Device Manager is your central hub for managing hardware and drivers on your computer. It’s like a control center where you can see all the devices connected to your system.
Step 2: Locate Display Adapters
Expand the "Display Adapters" section to find your NVIDIA graphics card.
Display Adapters show all the graphics-related hardware installed in your computer. Here, you’ll see your NVIDIA card listed.
Step 3: Access Driver Properties
Right-click on your NVIDIA graphics card and select "Properties."
This will open a new window that provides detailed information about your graphics card, including the current driver version installed.
Step 4: Open Driver Tab
In the Properties window, navigate to the "Driver" tab.
This tab is where all the magic happens. It contains options to update, disable, uninstall, or roll back the driver.
Step 5: Roll Back Driver
Click the "Roll Back Driver" button and follow the on-screen instructions.
The system will now revert to the previous driver version. It’s like hitting an undo button for your drivers.
After Rolling Back
After you complete these actions, Windows will revert to the previous NVIDIA driver version. This should resolve any new issues that cropped up after the latest update. Your screen might flicker or go black for a few moments during this process, but don’t worry—that’s completely normal. Once it’s done, you should find your system back to its reliable old self.
Tips for How to Roll Back NVIDIA Drivers Windows 10
- Backup Current Driver: Before rolling back, make sure to backup your current driver. It’s always good to have a fallback plan.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure the previous version of the driver is compatible with your current Windows version.
- Update Notifications: Turn off automatic driver updates in Windows Settings to prevent reinstallation of the problematic driver.
- Use Safe Mode: If you encounter issues, try performing the rollback in Safe Mode.
- NVIDIA Support: Keep the NVIDIA support page bookmarked for any future driver-related issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I roll back NVIDIA drivers if the rollback option is greyed out?
If the rollback option is greyed out, it means there’s no previous driver version to revert to. You may need to manually uninstall the current driver and then install a previous version from NVIDIA’s website.
What should I do if the rollback doesn’t fix the issue?
If rolling back doesn’t resolve your problem, consider uninstalling the driver completely and then reinstalling the version known to work. Also, check for system updates.
Is rolling back drivers safe?
Yes, rolling back drivers is generally safe and can help resolve issues caused by recent updates. Just make sure to backup your current drivers as a precaution.
Will I lose any settings by rolling back my driver?
Rolling back a driver should not affect your personal settings. However, it’s always good to make note of any custom configurations just in case.
How often should I update my NVIDIA drivers?
Only update your NVIDIA drivers if you’re experiencing issues or need the latest features for new games and software. Otherwise, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!
Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate Display Adapters.
- Access Driver Properties.
- Open Driver Tab.
- Roll Back Driver.
Conclusion
Rolling back NVIDIA drivers on Windows 10 is a useful skill to have in your tech toolbox. Whether it’s for fixing performance issues, resolving compatibility problems, or simply going back to a more stable driver version, this process can save you a lot of headaches.
Make sure to always keep a backup of your drivers and stay informed about any new driver updates. A little caution can go a long way in maintaining your system’s performance and stability.
For further reading, check out NVIDIA’s official support pages and community forums. These resources can provide additional assistance and keep you updated on the latest driver news. So, don’t let a bad driver ruin your day—roll it back and keep your system running smoothly!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.