DXGI Error Device Hung: Fix It in Windows

The DXGI_ERROR_DEVICE_HUNG error (often paired with “Device Hung” or “Device Removed”) is a Windows graphics crash that typically appears when a game or GPU-intensive app stops responding, usually due to a driver timeout, overheating, or unstable overclock. The fix is to update or cleanly reinstall your graphics driver, then check for overheating and remove any GPU overclocks; if the error persists, adjust the app’s graphics settings or repair system files.

What Causes DXGI_ERROR_DEVICE_HUNG

The error comes from DirectX Graphics Infrastructure (DXGI), the Windows component that connects games and apps to your graphics hardware. When the GPU takes longer than a set time (usually 2 seconds) to complete a task, Windows resets the driver and reports “device hung” to the app. This timeout is a safety mechanism to prevent a frozen system, but it can be triggered by several common issues:

• Outdated or corrupted GPU drivers – the most frequent cause
• Overheating GPU – thermal throttling can cause delays
• Unstable overclock – too high a core or memory clock
• Power supply issues – insufficient or unstable power delivery
• Game-specific bugs – some titles have known DXGI issues
• Windows updates – a recent update can conflict with drivers

How to Fix It: Step-by-Step

Start with the simplest fix and work through the list. Most users resolve the error with the first or second step.

1. Update your graphics driver. Open the manufacturer’s app (NVIDIA GeForce Experience, AMD Adrenalin, or Intel Arc Control) and check for updates. If you prefer manual updates, download from the official site and install.
2. Clean reinstall the driver. Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) in Safe Mode to remove the current driver completely, then install the latest one. This clears any corrupted leftover files.
3. Check GPU temperatures. Use a tool like MSI Afterburner or HWInfo to monitor temps while gaming. If the GPU exceeds 85°C (185°F), clean the fans and improve case airflow.
4. Remove GPU overclocks. Set the core and memory clocks back to factory defaults in MSI Afterburner or your GPU’s utility. Also disable any factory overclock if your card has one.
5. Verify game files. In Steam, Epic, or other launchers, use “Verify integrity of game files” to repair any corrupted game data.
6. Lower in-game graphics settings. Reduce settings like shadows, anti-aliasing, or resolution to lessen GPU load.
7. Run Windows System File Checker. Open Command Prompt as administrator and type sfc /scannow. This repairs corrupted Windows files.

What to Do If the Error Persists

If the error continues after the steps above, try these additional measures:

• Disable hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling in Windows Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Default graphics settings. This feature sometimes causes DXGI errors.
• Roll back a recent Windows update. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates, and remove the most recent update if the error started after it.
• Test your power supply. If your PSU is old or underpowered, it may not deliver stable power under load. Consider testing with a known-good PSU.
• Reinstall the game. If only one game crashes, a clean reinstall can fix corrupted game files that the launcher’s verify missed.
• Check for GPU hardware issues. If the error occurs in multiple apps and all software fixes fail, the GPU may be failing. Test the card in another system if possible.

How to Prevent It in the Future

Prevention is easier than repeated fixes. Adopt these habits:

• Keep drivers updated – check monthly or before playing a new AAA title.
• Maintain cooling – clean dust from fans and heatsinks every few months.
• Avoid aggressive overclocks – if you overclock, stress-test with tools like FurMark or 3DMark.
• Use a stable power supply – ensure your PSU has enough wattage for your GPU and is of good quality.
• Limit background apps – close unnecessary programs that may load the GPU.

Common Misconceptions

Many users believe DXGI_ERROR_DEVICE_HUNG means the GPU is dead. In most cases, it’s a software issue. Another misconception is that lowering graphics settings always fixes it – while it can help, the root cause is often driver-related. Also, some think that updating Windows always causes the error, but Windows updates are rarely the sole culprit; they usually expose a driver incompatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this error damage my GPU?

No, the error itself doesn’t damage hardware. It’s a protective timeout. However, if overheating is the cause, continued operation at high temps can shorten GPU lifespan.

Can I fix it by updating Windows?

Sometimes. If the error is caused by a driver conflict with an older Windows version, updating may help. But if a recent update caused the issue, rolling back is more effective.

Is it safe to disable the TDR (Timeout Detection and Recovery)?

You can increase the timeout value in the registry, but it’s not recommended for most users. Disabling it can cause system freezes instead of recoverable crashes. Only do this if you’re troubleshooting with expert guidance.

Why does it happen only in one game?

That usually points to a game-specific bug or a graphics setting that the game uses incorrectly. Check the game’s forums for known issues and try changing the rendering API (e.g., DirectX 11 vs 12) if the game allows it.

Should I replace my GPU if the error keeps happening?

Only after exhausting all software fixes and testing the GPU in another system. If the GPU fails in multiple systems with fresh drivers, it may be faulty. Otherwise, it’s likely a software or power issue.

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