Are you getting ‘This Device is Disabled’ message on windows? Let’s learn how to fix graphics device driver error code 22.
If you’re facing issues with your computer’s display and encountering messages such as “This device is disabled. (Code 22)” in Device Manager, you are not alone. This error indicates that your graphics device—commonly referred to as a video or display adapter—has been disabled by Windows.
In this guide, we will explore what causes this error and provide you with a detailed, step-by-step approach to get your system back to optimal performance. Whether you’re troubleshooting for Windows 10 or a newer version like Windows 11, these solutions will help you understand and resolve the problem.
What is error code 22 on graphics device driver?
Error Code 22 is a common message in Device Manager that tells you the graphics device has been disabled. This can happen for various reasons, such as when the device is manually disabled, there are driver conflicts, or insufficient system resources force Windows to disable the hardware.
When this error occurs, your display adapter (or video card) may stop functioning properly, causing display issues and affecting overall system performance.
In many cases, the error is resolved by re-enabling the device or updating its drivers. However, other underlying causes such as outdated BIOS settings or even physical hardware problems may be to blame.
By following the troubleshooting steps outlined below, you can systematically diagnose the issue and apply the appropriate fix.
How to Fix Graphics Device Driver Error Code 22
Below is a detailed explanation of the methods you can use to fix the error. We’ll start with the simplest solutions and gradually move on to more advanced troubleshooting techniques.
Enabling the Graphics Device
How to Enable the Device
Often, the simplest explanation is the correct one—the device is simply disabled. To resolve this, open Device Manager and check whether your graphics adapter has been turned off.
Access Device Manager by pressing the Windows key and typing “Device Manager” into the search bar. Once there, locate the section labeled “Display adapters” to identify your video card (whether it’s from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
Right-click on the graphics device and select “Enable device” if that option is available. After enabling it, restart your computer so that the changes take effect.
This quick fix addresses the most common scenario where a manual configuration has caused the error.
Restarting Your Computer
When a Reboot is Enough
Before diving into more complex solutions, consider simply restarting your computer. A reboot can clear temporary glitches or resource conflicts, which might be causing the error.
After a restart, check Device Manager again to see if the error persists. This basic step is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in troubleshooting many Windows driver issues.
Reversing Recent Changes
Undo System Changes
If the error started appearing after you recently updated or installed new hardware, it might be worth considering what changes were made.
You may have updated the graphics driver or installed new software that caused the conflict. Reversing these changes can sometimes resolve the issue.
If you remember updating your driver, consider using the “Roll Back Driver” feature in Device Manager to revert to the previous version. Alternatively, if a new hardware component was added, temporarily remove it to see if the error clears.
This process of elimination can help pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.
Reinstalling or Rolling Back Graphics Drivers
How to Reinstall the Graphics Driver
Outdated or corrupted drivers are frequent culprits behind Error Code 22. To tackle this, you may need to uninstall the current driver and reinstall a fresh version.
Open Device Manager, right-click on your graphics device, and choose “Uninstall device.” If there is an option to delete the driver software, go ahead and select it.
Once uninstalled, reboot your computer so Windows can attempt to reinstall a basic driver automatically.
If the automatic reinstallation does not resolve the issue, visit the official website of your graphics card manufacturer.
- For NVIDIA graphics cards, refer to the guide on how to download and install NVIDIA drivers on Windows.
- For Intel graphics, explore the Intel Driver Support Assistant.
If you recently updated your driver and the error started appearing afterward, rolling back to a previous version could be the best course of action.
Updating Graphics Drivers
Get the Latest Driver
In many instances, simply updating your graphics drivers to the newest version is enough to resolve the issue. Begin by identifying the model of your graphics card in Device Manager under “Display adapters.”
Next, head to the manufacturer’s website to search for available driver updates.
Installing the latest drivers not only fixes current errors but also helps prevent future issues by addressing bugs and compatibility problems.
If you’re not sure how to do this, refer to detailed guides on updating drivers. An updated driver ensures that your system resources are efficiently managed and that potential hardware conflicts are minimized.
Performing a BIOS CMOS Reset and Updating BIOS
Reset BIOS and Clear CMOS
If reinstalling or updating your drivers does not resolve the error, the problem may lie within your system’s firmware settings.
Outdated BIOS settings or a drained CMOS battery can lead to resource conflicts that cause Error Code 22.
To perform a BIOS CMOS reset, turn off your computer and disconnect it from the power source. Open your computer case carefully, and locate the small, round CMOS battery.
Remove the battery gently and wait for about five to ten minutes before reinstalling it. Once reinserted, power on your computer and access the BIOS settings to reconfigure preferences if necessary.
Updating your BIOS can also resolve conflicts by improving communication between hardware components. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website to determine if a newer BIOS version is available.
Repositioning the Graphics Hardware
Reseat the GPU
For desktop systems with dedicated graphics cards, the physical seating of the card can sometimes be the root cause of the problem.
If your graphics card is not properly connected to its PCIe slot, or if it’s installed in a slot that has resource conflicts, you might encounter Error Code 22.
To check and reposition your graphics hardware:
- Shut down your PC and unplug it.
- Open the computer case and carefully remove the graphics card.
- Reinsert it into the same or a different PCIe slot.
- Make sure the card is securely connected.
Reboot your computer and check Device Manager. Re-seating the graphics card can sometimes clear up connection issues or fix a hardware conflict.
Replacing the Graphics Hardware
What If the GPU Is Faulty?
In rare cases, despite all troubleshooting efforts, Error Code 22 may indicate that the graphics card itself is faulty.
Perform a visual inspection—look for signs of damage such as burnt components or loose connectors.
If possible, test the graphics card in another system. If diagnostics confirm that the hardware is defective, you may need to replace the graphics card.
This is typically the last resort after exhausting all software-based solutions.
Considering a Repair or Clean Install of Windows
When Software Is the Problem
When all hardware and driver troubleshooting has been exhausted, a broader system issue may be at play.
Sometimes, deep-rooted Windows configuration problems or file corruption can lead to Error Code 22.
In such cases, performing a repair install or even a clean install of Windows can resolve these issues.
Before proceeding, back up your data.
- A repair install preserves your files while reinstalling essential components.
- A clean install wipes everything and starts fresh.
For proper setup post-installation, refer to our step-by-step guide on performing a clean boot in Windows.
Additional Troubleshooting Considerations
Always ensure your system is free from viruses and malware, as these can interfere with driver operations. Clean dust from components and secure internal cables.
Understand that a failure in one component may lead to errors elsewhere, such as a failing power supply, insufficient RAM, or issues with the motherboard.
Maintain an organized routine for system updates and driver installations. Only download updates from reputable sources and ensure driver versions are hardware compatible.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a graphics device driver error code 22 can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your display or prevents your system from using its full graphical power. Thankfully, this issue is usually resolvable with the right approach, whether it’s a simple driver update, hardware reseating, or a deeper BIOS reset.
The key is to follow a systematic troubleshooting process—starting with basic solutions like enabling the device and restarting your computer, then moving to more advanced steps like driver reinstallation, hardware diagnostics, or even a Windows repair install if necessary.
By understanding the root causes and how to resolve them step by step, you not only fix the issue but also improve your system’s stability, performance, and longevity.
Useful Resources
Below are trusted tools, guides, and official pages that can help you troubleshoot, fix, and maintain your graphics drivers and resolve error code 22 effectively:
Windows and System Troubleshooting Guides
How to Download and Install NVIDIA Drivers on Windows: Step-by-step guide for installing and updating NVIDIA graphics drivers properly.
How to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows: Essential for diagnosing and resolving driver conflicts and software interference.
Microsoft Guide: Boot to UEFI or Legacy BIOS Mode: Helpful if you’re troubleshooting at the BIOS/UEFI level, especially for resource conflicts or hardware initialization issues.
Official Graphics Driver and Troubleshooting Resources
Intel Graphics Driver Troubleshooting Guide – Error Code 22: Intel’s official troubleshooting article specifically for graphics device driver error code 22, including solutions and best practices.
Intel Graphics Support: A comprehensive resource for understanding various Intel graphics driver errors, including system compatibility checks and driver updates.
NVIDIA Driver Downloads: Official page for downloading and updating NVIDIA graphics card drivers.
AMD Drivers and Support: Download the latest AMD Radeon graphics drivers and software updates for error prevention.
Intel Driver & Support Assistant: Learn how to install and use Intel’s official tool to automatically detect and update drivers.
Tools for Hardware & Driver Management
Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU): Cleanly remove graphics drivers before a reinstall—highly effective when dealing with persistent Code 22 errors.
Visit Our Post Page: Blog Page