How to Fix NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU ‘Error Code 43’ on Windows 11?

NVIDIA RTX 4090 Error Code 43 on Windows 11 can disrupt system performance, affecting gaming and professional workloads. This issue usually stems from outdated drivers, hardware malfunctions, or system conflicts. Understanding the causes and solutions is essential to restore GPU functionality. Detailed troubleshooting methods will be covered, from driver updates to BIOS settings and hardware compatibility fixes.

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NVIDIA RTX 4090 Error Code 43 in Windows 11 usually indicates driver or hardware issues. Learn how to troubleshoot and fix the problem for optimal performance.

Understanding NVIDIA RTX 4090 Error Code 43 on Windows 11

Error Code 43 is a common issue in Windows Device Manager, signaling that the system has stopped the NVIDIA RTX 4090 graphics card due to a detected problem. This error can arise due to driver conflicts, improper hardware connections, BIOS misconfigurations, or even faulty GPU firmware.

Common Causes of RTX 4090 Error Code 43

Before diving into solutions, identifying the potential causes that trigger this error is crucial. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Outdated or Corrupt Drivers – Incompatible driver versions may lead to system miscommunication with the GPU.
• Windows Updates Conflicts – Recent system updates may cause driver discrepancies, leading to recognition issues.
• Faulty Graphics Card Installation – Poor PCIe slot connection or insufficient power supply can cause system instability.
• BIOS or Firmware Issues – Incompatible settings in BIOS or outdated motherboard firmware may trigger the error.
• Hardware Failures – Physical damage, overheating, or power supply fluctuations may reduce GPU efficiency.

How to Fix NVIDIA RTX 4090 Error Code 43 in Windows 11

Addressing this error requires a sequence of troubleshooting steps. Below are the most effective methods to resolve the issue.

1. Update or Reinstall NVIDIA Drivers

One of the primary reasons for Error Code 43 is outdated graphics drivers. To update or reinstall the GPU driver:

• Use Device Manager:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Display Adapters and locate NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090.
  3. Right-click and select Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.

• Reinstall the Driver:

  1. Open Device Manager and right-click on RTX 4090.
  2. Select Uninstall device and check Delete the driver software for this device before confirming the action.
  3. Restart the PC and reinstall the latest drivers from the NVIDIA official website.

2. Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft occasionally releases patches that fix GPU-related issues. To update Windows:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Windows Update and click Check for updates.
3. If updates are available, install them and restart the system.

3. Enable the GPU in Device Manager

Sometimes, the GPU may get disabled automatically:

1. Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager).
2. Expand Display Adapters, right-click on NVIDIA RTX 4090 and select Enable device if it is disabled.

4. Use the NVIDIA GeForce Experience to Perform a Clean Installation

Performing a clean driver installation ensures that any corrupted or previous driver remnants are removed.

1. Download and install NVIDIA GeForce Experience.
2. Open the application, navigate to Drivers and click Download.
3. Choose Custom Installation, check Perform a clean installation, and proceed with the installation.

5. Check Power and Hardware Connections

Improper connections or insufficient power supply may also lead to Error Code 43. Ensure the following:

• The RTX 4090 is seated properly in the PCIe slot.
• The GPU is receiving sufficient power from the PSU (Power Supply Unit).
• If necessary, use a different PCIe slot to rule out motherboard slot issues.

6. Modify BIOS Settings

BIOS misconfigurations can prevent proper GPU detection. To check:

1. Restart the system and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, DEL, or F12).
2. Locate PCIe settings under Advanced Settings and ensure the primary GPU configuration is set correctly.
3. If available, enable Above 4G Decoding for better GPU performance.
4. Save changes and exit BIOS. Restart the system.

7. Disable Fast Startup on Windows 11

Fast Startup can sometimes interfere with drivers loading correctly. To disable it:

1. Press Win + R, type powercfg.cpl, and press Enter.
2. Click Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable.
3. Uncheck Turn on fast startup, then Save changes.

8. Perform a System Restore (If the Issue Started After an Update)

If Error Code 43 appeared after a Windows update or driver installation, using System Restore can revert to a more stable version.

1. Press Win + R and type rstrui to open System Restore.
2. Choose a restore point before the issue occurred and follow the prompts.
3. Restart the PC upon completion.

9. Check for Overheating or Hardware Damage

If the GPU is overheating:

• Ensure proper ventilation inside the PC case.
• Clean dust build-up on the GPU and cooling system.
• Monitor temperatures with MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor.

If physical damage is suspected, testing the GPU in another system can help confirm whether it’s a hardware failure.

10. Contact NVIDIA Support or RMA the GPU

If none of the above solutions work, the issue may be hardware-related. Contact NVIDIA Support or initiate a warranty claim (RMA) for a possible replacement.

Fixing NVIDIA RTX 4090 Error Code 43 on Windows 11 requires a systematic approach. By updating drivers, checking hardware connections, adjusting BIOS settings, and ensuring proper airflow, the GPU can be restored to optimal functionality. Advanced troubleshooting options like System Restore or BIOS tuning may be necessary in persistent cases. Following these steps ensures the RTX 4090 operates without further errors.# How to Fix NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU 'Error Code 43' on Windows 11?

NVIDIA's RTX 4090 is a high-performance GPU designed for gaming, creative workloads, and AI applications. However, users may encounter Error Code 43 in Windows Device Manager, which disables the GPU, disrupting system performance. This problem is commonly caused by driver issues, hardware conflicts, BIOS misconfigurations, or power supply instability. Resolving it requires advanced troubleshooting techniques, including driver management, power optimization, BIOS adjustments, and hardware inspections.

Symptoms and Impact of Error Code 43

When Error Code 43 occurs, Windows disables the GPU, preventing it from functioning correctly. Common symptoms include:

• GPU not detected in NVIDIA Control Panel
• Limited resolution and refresh rate due to the use of the Microsoft Basic Display Adapter
• Crashes or system instability when launching games or graphics-intensive applications
• The device manager displaying the message:
  "Windows has stopped this device because it has reported problems (Code 43)."

Understanding the root causes behind this error leads to effective problem-solving.

Primary Causes of NVIDIA RTX 4090 Error Code 43

Multiple hardware and software factors can contribute to this issue. Identifying the precise cause ensures faster resolution.

Now, applying a systematic troubleshooting approach helps in eliminating each potential cause effectively.

Fix Methods for RTX 4090 Error Code 43

1. Check for NVIDIA Driver Issues

The most frequent cause of Error Code 43 is related to the GPU drivers.

Updating NVIDIA Drivers

1. Uninstall existing drivers:

   • Open Device Manager (Win + X → Device Manager)
   • Expand Display Adapters
   • Right-click NVIDIA RTX 4090 → Uninstall device
   • Check Delete the driver software for this device → Confirm

2. Install the latest drivers from NVIDIA’s website:

   • Navigate to NVIDIA’s Driver Page
   • Select RTX 4090, Windows 11, and download the latest Game Ready or Studio Driver
   • Perform a Clean Installation

Using DDU for a Deep Driver Removal

If basic reinstalling does not work, use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to remove all traces of previous driver versions:

1. Download DDU from Wagnardsoft.
2. Run it in Safe Mode (press Shift + Restart and select Safe Mode from boot options).
3. Select Clean and Restart to remove all NVIDIA driver files.
4. Reinstall the latest driver using the NVIDIA Installer as mentioned above.

2. Verify GPU Recognition in BIOS

If the system fails to detect the RTX 4090, modifying BIOS settings can resolve compatibility issues.

Steps to Access and Adjust BIOS Settings

1. Restart the PC and enter BIOS (DEL or F2 key during startup).
2. Navigate to Advanced Settings > PCIe Configuration.
3. Ensure that Primary Display Adapter is set to PEG (PCIe Graphics) instead of Auto or CPU Integrated Graphics.
4. Enable Above 4G Decoding (needed for newer GPUs handling large memory allocations).
5. Save changes and exit BIOS.

3. Optimize Power Supply and PCIe Connections

Since the RTX 4090 has a high power requirement, inadequate power delivery can trigger Error Code 43.

Check Power Supply and PCIe Cable

• The RTX 4090 requires a minimum of 850W PSU. Ensure it matches system power demands.
• Verify that both PCIe power connectors (12VHPWR/8-pin adapters) are fully seated in place.
• Replace any split cables with dedicated PCIe power lines.

Using GPU-Z to Detect Power Limit Issues

1. Download and install GPU-Z.
2. Run it and check the Sensors tab for PCIe power limit, thermal throttling, and voltage regulation warnings.
3. If the Performance Cap Reason frequently shows "Power Limit," it indicates an insufficient power supply issue.

4. Turn Off Fast Startup in Windows

Fast Startup can lead to inconsistent GPU detection between shutdowns and reboots.

1. Open Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do
2. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable
3. Uncheck "Turn on fast startup"
4. Click Save Changes, then restart the system.

5. Perform a Windows Update or Rollback

Certain Windows updates may introduce driver conflicts causing Error 43.

Checking for Updates

1. Navigate to Windows Settings (Win + I)
2. Select Windows Update > Check for updates
3. Install any critical updates and reboot.

Rollback an Update (If Error Appeared After an Update)

1. Open Settings (Win + I)
2. Navigate to Update & Security > View update history
3. Select Uninstall updates and remove recent conflicting updates.

6. Modify Registry Settings (Advanced Users)

Editing registry keys could resolve driver corruption-related issues.

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers
3. Delete the following keys if they exist:
   • TdrDelay
   • TdrDdiDelay
   • TdrLevel
4. Restart the system.

7. Check for GPU Hardware Issues

If software fixes fail, hardware faults or overheating could be responsible.

Testing GPU in Another System

If possible, install the RTX 4090 in a different compatible system to see if the issue persists.

Monitor GPU Temperatures

1. Install MSI Afterburner to monitor temps under load.
2. Ensure proper system airflow and clean dust buildup from fans and heatsinks.
3. If the GPU overheats (85°C+ under load), replace thermal paste or adjust fan curves.

8. Contact NVIDIA Support or RMA

For persistent issues, hardware failure might be at fault. If the graphics card is within warranty:

1. Contact NVIDIA Support for troubleshooting guidance.
2. If advised, initiate an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) for a replacement.

Final Steps for Resolution

Troubleshooting Error Code 43 on RTX 4090 requires a combination of software fixes and hardware adjustments. The most effective solutions include:

• Driver reinstallation using DDU
• Checking power delivery and PSU wattage
• Modifying BIOS to enable PCIe configurations
• Disabling Fast Startup for proper device detection
• Examining physical GPU installation or testing on another machine

By following these technical methods, RTX 4090 users can successfully eliminate Error 43 and restore GPU functionality to its full performance.## Conclusion: Ensuring Long-Term Stability of Your RTX 4090 in Windows 11

Resolving NVIDIA RTX 4090 Error Code 43 is crucial to maintaining a stable, high-performance setup. As this issue can stem from software conflicts, driver issues, or hardware misconfigurations, taking a structured troubleshooting approach is essential. Addressing driver inconsistencies, optimizing BIOS settings, and ensuring adequate power supply are all key to restoring functionality. Moreover, considering the advanced architecture of the RTX 4090, regular system optimization can prevent similar issues in the future.

As the GPU market and Windows 11 updates evolve, unforeseen compatibility and performance challenges will likely continue appearing. Future developments in driver updates, firmware optimizations, and AI-powered system diagnostics may provide automatic solutions to errors like Code 43. Could upcoming NVIDIA driver releases integrate machine learning to detect and resolve such issues more efficiently?

The ultimate goal is to ensure that high-end hardware operates at its full potential without unnecessary performance bottlenecks. Keeping a clean driver environment, regularly updating system firmware, and applying proper cooling solutions will help maintain a GPU’s longevity. Error Code 43 troubleshooting isn't just about fixing a short-term issue—it’s about reinforcing system stability for long-term gaming and professional workloads.

What steps have proven most effective in solving GPU-related errors for your setup? Have you encountered similar RTX 4090 issues, and how did you resolve them? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below to help others facing the same challenge! 🚀