Windows 7 - Replacing video card

Radax · 01-30-2011

This is a noob question,do l need to uninstall my video driver before installing my new videocard (MSI GTX570 O/C),the video driver l have in there now is one of the latest ones,can't remember which one,l'm not at my gaming computer now.l'm replacing my GTX275.

Sik00 · 01-30-2011

You can, but shouldn't need to. Windows will detect your Nvidia is not installed anymore, and will see the new card. Windows should install the driver, at which point I would visit your new card manufacturer's site and get the official drivers for it. Hopefully this helps

SlackerITGuy · 01-30-2011

Quote: Originally Posted by Radax

This is a noob question,do l need to uninstall my video driver before installing my new videocard (MSI GTX570 O/C),the video driver l have in there now is one of the latest ones,can't remember which one,l'm not at my gaming computer now.l'm replacing my GTX275.

Highly recommended.

Here's a nice little guide:

GeForce Driver Installation Guide - NVIDIA Forums

sygnus21 · 01-30-2011

Though I understand where sik00 is coming from will say he has a point, I would have to side with slackerITGuy. If you're installing a new video card, remove the old drivers first, then install the new ones.

yowanvista · 01-31-2011

Quote: Originally Posted by toothbrusher

i would keep old ones.
drivers arent that big, and windows will recognize your new vid card.
the reason is if u want to go back (say theres a problem iwth ur card) then you dont need to reinstall.

Old drivers are very likely able to cause conflicts (even BSODs, atikmdag.sys/nvlddmkm.sys)
Removing the older ones is recommended

Windows 7 - Replacing video card

Replacing video card problems?