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AMD Radeon Code 31 is a Windows Device Manager error, not a diagnosis that your graphics card is dead. It means Windows recognizes the display adapter but cannot load the driver it needs. Start by identifying the affected adapter, then install the correct AMD or computer-manufacturer driver. If a standard reinstall fails, try AMD Software’s Factory Reset, followed by AMD Cleanup Utility if needed.
These steps apply to Windows 10 and 11 systems with Radeon discrete or integrated graphics, though available drivers depend on the specific hardware and system. Laptop owners should take particular care: the manufacturer’s driver may be necessary for hybrid graphics and power-management features.
Confirm that the device has Code 31
Open Start → Device Manager → Display adapters, right-click the affected device, and select Properties. Under Device status, Code 31 is shown with this message: “This device is not working properly because Windows cannot load the drivers required for this device. (Code 31).” Microsoft describes it as a driver-loading problem and recommends reinstalling the device driver through Device Manager. Microsoft’s Device Manager error-code guidance
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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11The adapter may appear under its Radeon model name, or as Microsoft Basic Display Adapter if Windows has not loaded the proper graphics driver. A yellow warning icon is another clue. If you see two adapters, your system may have both integrated and discrete graphics; note which one reports the error.
#1 Best Overall
- 2 x 92mm fans combined into one interface, can be connected to the motherboard's 3-pin or 4-pin interface and you only need to access one interface to run all the fans
- This cooling fan's total size is 7.36in(L) x 4.72in(W) x 1.18in(H), designed for most universal graphic card video card VGA cooling,just please check the size to make sure your pc has enough space
- D-type interface cable included four interfaces, three voltages: 5V, 7V and 12V; different voltages with different airflow, speed and noise. You can select the appropriate voltage interface to start the fan
- The double ball bearing has a service life of 65,000 hours, and the 7 blades produce strong airflow to keep the computer case cool
- packing list: 2 x 92mm fans (PCI bracket screwed), 1 x multi-voltage cable ,1 x mini screwdriver，1 x fixing screw
This is different from an AMD Software installer error such as 192, 205, or 206, and it is not the same as Windows Code 43. The message alone does not identify why the driver failed. A Windows update, an incompatible or damaged driver, an OEM compatibility issue, or another system problem may be involved. Reduced resolution options, poor 3D performance, games that fail to launch, or Radeon Software saying no AMD driver is installed can accompany the error.
Try the low-risk checks first
- Restart Windows. This can clear a driver instance that did not unload correctly. If Code 31 returns, continue rather than treating one successful restart as a lasting repair.
- Install pending Windows updates. Open Settings → Windows Update, install available updates, restart, then check Device Manager again. AMD notes that current Windows updates can be a prerequisite for its software installation in some situations. AMD’s installer guidance
- Record the model and hardware ID. In Device Manager, open the adapter’s Properties → Details tab and select Hardware Ids from the property list if the model is unclear. AMD also recommends identifying the exact graphics product before choosing a driver. AMD’s GPU identification guidance
Install a driver that matches the Radeon and the computer
For a controlled reinstall, download the driver before removing the current one. Use AMD’s official driver support page to select the exact product or, on a compatible system, use AMD’s Auto-Detect tool. AMD documents Auto-Detect support for Windows 11 and 64-bit Windows 10 version 1809 or later, but product-specific compatibility still applies. AMD Auto-Detect and installer information
- Retail desktop Radeon card: Choose the driver for the exact card or GPU family. Do not select a similar-sounding model from another generation.
- Laptop or all-in-one: Check the computer manufacturer’s support page first, especially if the system uses switchable or hybrid graphics. Generic AMD drivers can cause compatibility problems on some OEM systems.
- Prebuilt desktop: If the generic AMD package fails or causes display issues, try the system maker’s driver.
- Radeon PRO: Use the appropriate Radeon PRO package rather than assuming the consumer Adrenalin package is correct.
- Older graphics hardware: Confirm the product is supported by the current package. If not, use the final compatible driver listed by AMD or the computer manufacturer.
AMD’s product and installer options vary by hardware. Its documentation distinguishes Recommended drivers, which prioritize stability and Microsoft certification, from Optional drivers, which may offer newer features or fixes. If a recent update triggered Code 31, a known-good or OEM-supported version may be a better troubleshooting choice than simply installing the newest available release.
Rank #2
- 3 x 92mm fans combined into one interface, can be connected to the motherboard's 3-pin or 4-pin interface and you only need to access one interface to run all the fans
- This cooling fan's total size is 11in(L) x 4.72in(W) x 1.18in(H), designed for most universal graphic card video card VGA cooling,just please check the size to make sure your pc has enough space
- D-type interface cable included four interfaces, three voltages: 5V, 7V and 12V; different voltages with different airflow, speed and noise. You can select the appropriate voltage interface to start the fan
- The double ball bearing has a service life of 65,000 hours, and the 7 blades produce strong airflow to keep the computer case cool
- packing list: 3 x 92mm fans (PCI bracket screwed), 1 x multi-voltage cable ,1 x mini screwdriver，1 x fixing screw
Once you have the correct package, you can let its installer handle the driver. Alternatively, in Device Manager, right-click the affected adapter and choose Update driver → Browse my computer for drivers, then point Windows to the folder containing the extracted driver files. Do not manually select a random similarly named AMD driver.
Reinstall with AMD Software’s Factory Reset option
If installing the right package normally does not clear Code 31, AMD’s installer may offer a Factory Reset option under Additional Options. The exact labels and options can vary by product and installer version. Download the intended package first, close games and other applications, then run the installer and select Factory Reset if it is available.
- Choose the appropriate software type if prompted: Default, Minimal, or Driver Only.
- Allow the installer to remove the previous AMD Software package and restart the computer if requested.
- After the system restarts, let the installation continue; restart again if prompted.
- Recheck the adapter’s Device status in Device Manager and open Radeon Software to confirm the driver loads.
Factory Reset resets AMD graphics software and driver components; it does not reinstall Windows. AMD says it temporarily pauses Windows Updates during installation. It also warns that the previous AMD driver cannot be rolled back after using this option, so keep that limitation in mind if you may need to return to the earlier version. AMD’s installation and Factory Reset instructions
Rank #3
- 【Durable & Compact Design】This cooling fan is built with high-quality materials for enhanced durability. Its compact size makes it easy to install in tight spaces, providing reliable active cooling for graphics cards or server components
- 【Broad Compatibility for High-Performance Hardware】Ideal for graphics cards and other server hardware that require additional cooling. Perfect for use in consumer chassis with limited airflow to improve system stability and performance
- 【Adjustable Fan Speed for Custom Airflow】With a speed range of 1500–3000 RPM, the fan allows you to fine-tune airflow based on your cooling needs. Whether you prioritize silent operation or maximum cooling, this fan gives you full control
- Flexible Power Options with USB & 4-Pin Support】Comes with a USB to 4-PIN PWM cable for easy 12V power connection. The fan can be turned on or off manually, offering flexible control
- 【Complete Kit, Ready to Install】Includes 1 x cooling fan, 1 x USB to 4-PIN cable, and 1 x mounting screw. Everything you need for a quick and hassle-free installation—no additional parts required
Use AMD Cleanup Utility if driver remnants remain
If a standard reinstall or Factory Reset fails, AMD Cleanup Utility can remove AMD graphics and associated audio drivers and software before a fresh installation. It is not a universal driver remover, and it does not remove AMD chipset drivers on AMD-powered systems. Download it from AMD’s official Cleanup Utility guidance, along with the correct replacement driver, before starting.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →- Save your work and wait for any active Windows Update to finish. Close applications.
- Run
amdcleanuputility.exe. When prompted, choose Yes to restart into Safe Mode; AMD recommends Safe Mode for best results. - Let the cleanup finish. The screen may flicker or go blank temporarily, and the process can take about 15–20 minutes in some cases.
- Restart when prompted, then install the AMD or OEM driver you downloaded.
AMD says the utility creates a restore point before cleanup. Even so, save important work and do not interrupt the process. Cleanup removes AMD graphics software remnants; it is not a guaranteed Code 31 fix and does not repair Windows corruption or remove every third-party display driver.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If Code 31 returns after installation
Check whether Windows Update replaced the driver
If the Radeon driver works immediately after installation but Code 31 returns after a restart or update, Windows may have replaced or reverted the driver. AMD documents Windows Update reverting a driver as a possible installation-related issue. For a clean installation, temporarily disconnecting from the internet can sometimes prevent an immediate replacement while you install the prepared driver. Reconnect afterward and check whether the driver changes again. Do not permanently disable Windows Update as a general fix.
Rank #4
- Package include: 1 Piece Graphic Card Fans ( 3-Fans connected ) with 1*Power D-type Interface cable
- Dimension: 92mm(L) x 92mm(W) x 25mm(H) / 3.62in(L) x 3.62in(W) x 1in(H) in per fan. Totally Size: 276mm(L) x 120mm(W) x 30mm(H) / 10.86in(L) x 4.72in(W) x 1.18in(H)
- Rated Voltage: DC 12V; Rated Current: 0.45Amp; Rated Speed: 3x 1800 RPM; Air flow: 3x 39.8 CFM; Noise: 3x 24.8 dBA
- D-type interface cable included four interfaces, three voltages: 5V 7V and 12V; Different voltages with different airflow, speed, and noise. you can select the appropriate voltage interface to start the fan.
- 3 fans combined into one interface, Can be connected to the motherboard's 3-pin or 4-pin interface and you only need to access one interface to run all the fans.
For a laptop, use the complete OEM graphics setup
Hybrid-graphics laptops may use integrated Radeon graphics to control the display and a discrete GPU for rendering. Installing only one generic graphics package may leave the system’s driver stack incomplete or disrupt switching and power features. Consult the support page for the exact laptop model for graphics, chipset, BIOS, and any required control software. There is no safe universal driver order for every laptop, so follow the manufacturer’s model-specific instructions.
Check chipset, firmware, and recent changes
If the correct driver still will not load, install current chipset drivers from the computer or motherboard manufacturer. Check for a BIOS/UEFI update there as well, but only after confirming the exact system model and following the maker’s update and recovery instructions. If the error began immediately after a driver or Windows change, consider System Restore or reinstalling the last known-good AMD or OEM driver. AMD’s stability guidance also recommends reviewing driver changes and restoring factory settings if an overclock is unstable. AMD system-stability troubleshooting
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For a desktop card, shut down and unplug the computer before checking that the card is seated and its PCIe power connectors are firmly attached. Remove unstable GPU overclocks and return the card to stock settings. Confirm the display cable is connected to the intended graphics output. Avoid changing BIOS settings or updating firmware without knowing the exact hardware and a recovery path.
Best Value
- Suitable for ASUS RTX 3050 PHOENIX / RTX 3060 PHOENIX
- Incompatible with other Graphics Card
- Fan diameter:95mm
- Power connector: 6 Pin
When hardware failure becomes more plausible
Code 31 alone does not prove that the GPU is defective. Hardware deserves closer attention if the error persists after a clean installation of the correct driver and the system’s relevant firmware checks, or if the card is inconsistently detected, produces visual artifacts, crashes under load, overheats, loses power, or behaves abnormally. A stronger test is to try the card in a known-good compatible computer, or try a known-good GPU in the affected system. If the problem follows the Radeon card, contact the card maker or system manufacturer about warranty service. If another card works in the same system, investigate the original card; if the Radeon works elsewhere, the slot, motherboard, firmware, power, or Windows installation may be involved.
Before replacing a card or reinstalling Windows, confirm the model, driver source, power connections, and whether integrated graphics is enabled or involved. If software troubleshooting is exhausted, provide support with the exact Radeon model, Windows edition and build, driver version, Device status text, Hardware Ids, and what changed before the error began.
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