PC keeps restarting after latest Nvidia drivers update (5070 ti)

Troubleshooting Persistent PC Restarting Issue Following Nvidia Driver Update (GeForce RTX 5070 Ti)

Introduction

Updating graphics card drivers is a common task for gamers and professionals seeking optimal performance and compatibility. However, sometimes driver updates can introduce unforeseen issues. Recently, users have encountered a frustrating problem where their PCs abruptly restart after installing the latest Nvidia drivers, specifically affecting systems equipped with the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti. This article explores a real-world scenario involving display configuration problems and provides guidance on how to troubleshoot and resolve the reboot loop caused by driver updates.

Background and Initial Issue

The user initially faced challenges setting up a new ultra-wide monitor. The core problem revolved around the “active display mode” not matching the monitor’s native resolution, particularly when adjusting the refresh rate. To address this, they downloaded and installed the latest Nvidia drivers through a clean installation process. While the update aimed to resolve display discrepancies, it inadvertently triggered a more severe problem: the system enters an endless cycle of restarts immediately after booting.

Understanding the Problem

Post-update, the computer fails to stay powered on long enough for the user to access Nvidia’s control panel or other system utilities. This indicates a potential conflict or incompatibility introduced by the driver update, possibly affecting system stability or hardware communication. Several factors can contribute to such issues:

• Incompatibility between the new driver and hardware components
• Corrupted driver installation
• Conflicting software or system files
• Hardware malfunctions or power issues

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Boot Into Safe Mode

To begin troubleshooting, access Safe Mode:

• Restart your computer.
• During startup, press F8 (or Shift + F8 on some systems) repeatedly before the Windows logo appears.
• Select “Safe Mode” from the Advanced Startup Options menu.

Safe Mode loads minimal drivers, allowing you to make system changes without interference from problematic drivers.

1. Uninstall the Nvidia Drivers

Once in Safe Mode:

• Open Device Manager (Right-click on Start button > Device Manager).
• Expand “Display adapters.”
• Right-click your Nvidia graphics card and select “Uninstall device.”
• Check the option to “Delete the driver software for this device” if available.

• Confirm and complete the uninstallation.

• Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU)

For a thorough removal, consider using Display Driver Uninstaller:

• Download DDU from a reputable source.
• Boot into Safe Mode.
• Run DDU and follow the