To uninstall AMD drivers in Safe Mode, you can use the Device Manager in Windows or AMD’s own cleanup utility. Here’s how to do it using both methods:
Using Device Manager:
- Boot into Safe Mode:
- Restart your computer.
- For Windows 10/11, hold down the
Shift
key while you click “Restart” on the sign-in screen or in the Start menu. - Navigate to
Troubleshoot
->Advanced options
->Startup Settings
and click on “Restart.” - After your PC restarts, select a version of Safe Mode by pressing the corresponding number key (4 for Safe Mode, 5 for Safe Mode with Networking).
- Open Device Manager:
- Once in Safe Mode, right-click the Start button and select “Device Manager” from the list, or press
Windows Key + X
and then pressM
.
- Once in Safe Mode, right-click the Start button and select “Device Manager” from the list, or press
- Uninstall AMD Graphics Driver:
- In Device Manager, expand the “Display adapters” section.
- Right-click on your AMD graphics card and select “Uninstall device.”
- Check the box that says “Delete the driver software for this device” if available, and click “Uninstall.”
Using AMD Cleanup Utility:
Before you enter Safe Mode, it’s a good idea to download the AMD Cleanup Utility from AMD’s official website.
- Boot into Safe Mode (as described above).
- Run the AMD Cleanup Utility:
- Run the AMD Cleanup Utility you’ve downloaded before entering Safe Mode.
- The utility will provide prompts to remove AMD driver components.
- Follow the instructions to remove the drivers.
- Reboot Your Computer:
- After uninstalling the drivers, reboot your computer. Windows will load with the basic display driver.
Important Notes:
- Backup: Before using either method, it’s a good idea to back up any important data. Uninstalling drivers shouldn’t affect your personal files, but it’s always better to be safe.
- Download Drivers: If you plan to reinstall drivers, make sure you have the installer for the latest drivers downloaded from AMD’s website before starting this process.
- Restoring Functionality: After uninstalling AMD drivers, your screen resolution might be limited, and advanced graphics features will not be available until you reinstall drivers.
- Use Safe Mode with Networking: If you think you’ll need to download drivers or tools during the process, choose “Safe Mode with Networking” to have internet access.
Uninstalling drivers in Safe Mode is often done when a driver is causing issues or if you’re preparing to install a new driver and want to ensure there are no conflicts. After uninstalling the AMD drivers, your system will revert to using basic display drivers upon restart.