Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31, How to Fix Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?
by Priyanka P | Updated Jul 03, 2023
What is Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?
Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 is an issue that prevents Windows from loading the necessary drivers for a graphics device, such as a monitor. When this error occurs, you may experience problems with the display and functionality of your graphics device. It is typically classified as a Device Manager issue and can be attributed to various causes.
The error code 31 usually indicates that the driver attempting to start is different from the driver intended for the specific display adapter. It can also manifest as variations like "This device is not working properly because Windows cannot load the drivers required for this device. (code 31)" or "Microsoft basic display adapter code 31." These errors can be resolved by following certain steps and troubleshooting methods.
How to Fix Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?
To fix the Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31, please follow the detailed steps below:
Update your PC:
Reinstall the graphics driver:
Restart your PC to allow Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter:
Perform a system restore (if necessary):
Consider using specialised driver update software:
Why does Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 occur?
Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 occurs due to various reasons related to outdated or faulty drivers and conflicts within the Device Manager. When the error appears, it indicates that Windows is unable to load the required drivers for a graphics device such as a monitor.
This error can result from outdated operating systems, issues with display drivers, or conflicts between different drivers. The error prevents the proper functioning of the graphics device and can cause display and performance problems.
One common cause of the error is an outdated operating system. If your Windows version is not up to date, it can create conflicts with the Device Manager, leading to the error code 31. Installing the latest Windows updates can help resolve this issue. Another cause is faulty display drivers.
Problems with the display driver can prevent it from starting properly, resulting in the error. Uninstalling and reinstalling the display driver or updating the operating system can often resolve this issue. Finally, conflicts between different drivers can trigger the error code 31. In such cases, running the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter can help identify and fix the underlying driver conflicts.
Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 occurs when Windows is unable to load the necessary drivers for a graphics device. This can be caused by outdated operating systems, faulty display drivers, or conflicts between different drivers. Updating the operating system, reinstalling or updating the display driver, and running the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter are common steps to fix this error and ensure proper functioning of the graphics device.
How to Find Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?
To find and diagnose the Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31, follow the detailed steps below:
Identify the error message:
Check Device Manager:
Read error details:
Note the variations:
By following these steps, you can find and identify the Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 on your Windows PC. It's important to note the error message, check Device Manager for devices with the code 31 error, read the error details in the device's Properties window, and make note of any variations in the error description. This information will be useful when applying the appropriate fixes to resolve the error and ensure the proper functioning of your graphics device.
Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31: FAQs
Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 is an error that occurs when Windows is unable to load the necessary drivers for a graphics device, indicating issues with outdated or faulty drivers.
To fix the error, you can try updating your PC, reinstalling the graphics driver, running the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter, performing a system restore if needed, or using specialized driver update software.
The error can be caused by factors such as an outdated operating system, faulty display drivers, or conflicts between different drivers on your system.
Look for error messages mentioning code 31, check Device Manager for devices with an exclamation mark or error icon, and open the Properties window of the device to read the error details.
Press the Windows key + I, open the Settings app, select "Update & Security," click on "Check for updates," and install any available updates for your Windows operating system.
Press the Windows key + X, select "Device Manager," expand "Display adapters," right-click on the display driver, choose "Properties," go to the "Driver" tab, click "Uninstall Device," and restart your PC to allow Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.
If the issue persists, it's recommended to contact the manufacturer's support or seek professional assistance for further troubleshooting and resolution of the error.