How to Fix Error Code 43 for an NVIDIA or Intel GPU on Windows (2024)

While using your Windows PC, you may come across an error code 43, with the text "Windows has stopped this device because it has reported problems." The error is generated by your system's Device Manager when a hardware component reports some sort of unspecified issue.

The error code can mean one of two things. It either implies that you've got a driver problem, or it could be a sign of a hardware problem. Here, we're going to walk you through the process of troubleshooting code 43 for an NVIDIA or Intel GPU on Windows.

Update or Reinstall Your Driver

If you're suffering from a persistent code 43 error, reinstalling or updating the driver should be your first port of call. The error is often the result of the driver having lost communication with the hardware component. You can update your video card from the Device Manager.

If you're not already in the Device Manager, press Win + R, type devmgmt.msc, and press Enter to launch the Device Manager. Look for Display adapters and click on the arrow beside it to expand the devices. You'll see either your NVIDIA and Intel GPU here. Right-click on it and select Update driver.

You'll see two options for updating the driver. In most cases, it's best to search for the driver on the manufacturer's website because Windows isn't exactly efficient at finding drivers automatically.

However, if you want to give the automatic update a shot, go for it because it won't take more than 10 seconds. If it does find the driver, it will automatically install the driver. If you choose to go the manual route, choose the driver installation files and complete the installation, or you could use a free driver updater.

As an alternative, you can also simply uninstall the driver for that device. When you restart, Windows will automatically reinstall the driver for you. To uninstall the driver, right-click on the device and simply click on Uninstall device instead of Update driver.

Use the Built-In Windows Troubleshooter

Windows comes with several built-in troubleshooters that can help you solve a range of issues, including hardware problems. You can access the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter from the Settings app on Windows 10. However, Microsoft deprecated this troubleshooter (well, sort of) from Windows 10 build 1809 and onwards.

You can still access the troubleshooter, though. Instead of launching the troubleshooter from the Settings app, you'll need to run a command on Command Prompt. Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter to launch the Command Prompt. Run the following command:

msdt.exe-idDeviceDiagnostic 

Let the troubleshooter try to identify the issue. If it does determine what's causing the error code 43 for your NVIDIA or Intel GPU, it will first try and fix it automatically. If not, you'll at least have found out what's causing the problem.

However, if the troubleshooter doesn't identify the problem at all, try the next fix.

Check the PCI-E 6 Pin

Lack of sufficient power supply can also result in error code 43. Sometimes, the pin can come loose, leaving the GPU without enough power. Simply pushing the pin firmly into the socket can resolve this problem.

You'll need to at least be able to recognize what a GPU looks like. But once you find it, all you need to do is find the 6-pin cable connector and push it firmly in. If you can't determine which one's the 6-pin connector, just push all cables firmly into the socket.

Perform a System Restore

If the error began appearing recently, you can try and restore your system to a previous state when everything was working fine. Anything that you changed beyond the date when the restore point was created, including any changes with the driver, will be rolled back.

Of course, this requires that you have created a restore point in the first place. To check if you have a restore point that you can use, search for recovery in the Start Menu and select Open System Restore from the Recovery window.

This will launch the System Restore window. If you don't have any restore points, you'll see a message that reads "No restore points have been created on your system's drive."

If you do have restore points, you'll see a recommended restore point and an option to choose another restore point. Select the restore point that was made the most recently.

Related: System Restore Not Working on Windows? 5 Tips and Fixes to Try

Once you've followed the prompts and finished the restore process, let the computer restart and see if it resolves the issue.

Update Your BIOS

Your computer's BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware responsible for hardware initialization when your computer boots up. It comes preinstalled and acts as the gateway for you to access your system. Unlike in ancient times, you don't need to replace your hardware components after a BIOS update because it's now stored in flash memory.

The good thing is, updating your BIOS can also fix the code error 43 in some cases. It's best to try the previous fixes first, though, since a BIOS update can be a little technical. However, we have a thorough BIOS update guide that will walk you through the entire process.

You could also try updating your GPU Bios (also called the VGA BIOS). But again, do this only once you've exhausted all other options. If you're not confident about flashing the BIOS, it's better to seek help from an expert because a mistake can brick your GPU.

Error Code 43, Solved

Hopefully, one of these tips helped you address error code 43 for your NVIDIA or Intel GPU. If it didn't, maybe it's time to replace your GPU. As unfortunate as that sounds, it can be exciting if your GPU is old and can't run a lot of the new titles your friends have been bragging about. Plus, replacing a GPU isn't all that difficult either.