Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31, How to Fix Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?

Want to resolve Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31? Reinstalling the Graphics Device would be recommended by the Microsoft to get rid of the Error Code 31.

by Priyanka P

Updated Jul 03, 2023

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Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31, How to Fix Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?
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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.

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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:

  • Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  • Select the "Update & Security" option.
  • Click on the "Check for updates" button.
  • Install any available updates for your Windows operating system.

Reinstall the graphics driver:

  • Press the Windows key + X and select "Device Manager."
  • Expand the "Display adapters" section.
  • Right-click on the display driver and select "Properties."
  • Go to the "Driver" tab and click on the "Uninstall Device" button.
  • Confirm the action by clicking "Uninstall."

Restart your PC to allow Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter:

  • Press the Windows key, type "cmd," and select "Run as administrator" under Command Prompt.
  • Copy and paste the command "msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic" and hit Enter.
  • Wait for the scan to finish and follow any recommended troubleshooting steps provided by the troubleshooter.

Perform a system restore (if necessary):

  • If the error persists, you may need to perform a system restore to revert your PC's settings to a previous working state.
  • Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type "rstrui" and hit Enter to open the System Restore wizard.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point and initiate the system restore process.
  • Note that this will remove any recent changes made to your PC, so make sure to back up your important files before proceeding.

Consider using specialised driver update software:

  • If the above steps don't resolve the issue, you might want to use specialised driver update software such as Outbyte Driver Updater or Ashampoo Driver Updater.
  • These tools can automatically scan your system, identify outdated or faulty drivers, and download and install the latest versions for your devices.
  • By following these steps, you should be able to fix the Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 on your Windows PC. Remember to restart your computer after each step and test if the error is resolved. If you continue to experience issues, it's recommended to reach out to the manufacturer's support or seek professional assistance for further troubleshooting.
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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.

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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:

  • The error message associated with Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 typically indicates that Windows cannot load the required drivers for a specific device.
  • Look for error messages mentioning code 31, such as "This device is not working properly because Windows cannot load the drivers required for this device (code 31)."

Check Device Manager:

  • Press the Windows key + X and select "Device Manager" from the menu.
  • In Device Manager, expand the "Display adapters" category.
  • Look for any devices marked with an exclamation mark or showing an error icon.
  • Devices with a code 31 error will be displayed here, indicating the presence of the error.

Read error details:

  • Double-click on the device with the code 31 error to open its Properties window.
  • In the Properties window, go to the "General" tab.
  • Here, you can find more specific details about the error and its code.
  • The error description will provide information about the issue with the graphics device driver.

Note the variations:

  • Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 can appear in different variations, such as "Microsoft basic display adapter code 31" or "The driver trying to start is not the same as the driver for the posted display adapter."
  • Make a note of these variations as they can help in determining the specific driver or component affected by the error.

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.

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Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.

Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31: FAQs

1. What is Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?

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.

2.  How can I fix Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?  

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.

 

3.  What causes Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?  

 The error can be caused by factors such as an outdated operating system, faulty display drivers, or conflicts between different drivers on your system.

 

4. How can I find Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31 on my Windows PC?  

 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.

5. How do I update my PC to fix Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?  

 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.

 

6.  How do I reinstall the graphics driver to fix Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?  

 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.

 

7. What should I do if I still experience issues with Graphics Device Driver Error Code 31?  

 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.

 

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