Nvidia and other apps not working after Secure Boot change

Troubleshooting Post-Secure Boot Activation: Resolving Nvidia and Peripheral Software Compatibility Issues

Many PC enthusiasts encounter unexpected challenges after enabling Secure Boot on their systems. A common issue reported involves certain applications—particularly Nvidia-related tools and peripheral software—failing to launch or operate correctly after enabling Secure Boot. If you’re experiencing similar problems, this guide aims to help you understand the potential causes and provide effective solutions to restore full functionality.

Understanding the Context

Secure Boot is a security feature designed to prevent unauthorized firmware, operating systems, or software from loading during the system startup process. While it enhances security, enabling Secure Boot can sometimes interfere with certain drivers, applications, and utilities that rely on legacy or unsigned components.

A typical scenario involves users enabling Secure Boot to access specific features or perform tasks like participating in beta tests—such as an open beta for a popular game—only to find essential applications like Nvidia’s GeForce Experience, driver management tools, or peripheral software no longer respond or launch correctly.

Common Symptoms After Enabling Secure Boot

Nvidia applications, including GeForce Experience, fail to open or respond.
Inability to update or manage graphics drivers effectively.
Peripheral device software (e.g., mouse configuration tools) not launching or functioning properly.
General registry or driver configuration issues, possibly caused by modifications during Secure Boot setup.

Potential Causes

Secure Boot Compatibility: Some drivers and applications require digital signatures or specific configuration settings that may be affected by Secure Boot.
Modified Registry Keys: During the Secure Boot enablement process, registry entries associated with certain drivers or applications may have been altered—either intentionally or inadvertently.
Unsigned Drivers or Software: Applications relying on unsigned drivers may be blocked from executing under Secure Boot settings.