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How to Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU)

DDU is a utility that helps remove GPU drivers from your system completely. This is especially useful when troubleshooting graphics issues.

Updated over a week ago

⚠️ Warning: DDU makes deep system changes. Only use it if you're comfortable with advanced troubleshooting, or if standard driver removal tools fail.


Prerequisites

Before using DDU, make sure to:


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boot into Safe Mode (Recommended)

Running DDU in Safe Mode ensures maximum effectiveness and reduces conflicts.

How to Enter Safe Mode:

  • Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.

  • Go to the Boot tab.

  • Under Boot options, check Safe boot > Minimal.

  • Click Apply > OK, then Restart.

πŸ’‘ Tip: After using DDU, return here and uncheck "Safe boot" to start Windows normally.


2. Run DDU

  • Extract the downloaded DDU .zip file.

  • Open the extracted folder and run Display Driver Uninstaller.exe.

  • If prompted by Windows SmartScreen, click More Info > Run anyway.


3. Configure DDU Settings (Optional but Recommended)

Before uninstalling, go to Options and consider enabling:

  • Prevent downloads of drivers from Windows Update.

  • Remove PhysX (for NVIDIA users).

  • Remove AMD Audio Bus or HD Audio (if needed).

Close the options dialog when finished.


4. Uninstall Your GPU Driver

In the main DDU window:

  • Choose your GPU type from the dropdown: NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel.

  • Click one of the following:

    • βœ… Clean and restart (recommended)

    • πŸ›‘ Clean and do NOT restart (for installing multiple drivers consecutively)

    • πŸ” Clean and shutdown (if you're replacing a GPU)

πŸ“Œ Most users should choose Clean and restart.

DDU will now remove the selected drivers and restart your system.


After Using DDU

  1. Boot into Normal Mode (if you used Safe Mode).

  2. Install the latest GPU driver you previously downloaded.

  3. Reboot again to ensure changes take effect.


Troubleshooting Tips

  • If DDU doesn't launch, try running it as Administrator.

  • If your system behaves abnormally after DDU, use your System Restore point.

  • Still having driver issues? Consider checking for Windows corruption using:

    sfc /scannow

πŸ“Œ Final Notes

  • Only use DDU when necessary. It's not needed for every driver update.

  • Never interrupt DDU during the uninstall process.

  • Do not use your system for other tasks while DDU is running.

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