Important
Do not install a graphics driver just because you think you should.
If your system is working normally, leave it as it is.
Installing the wrong driver can break your system.
Step 11 / 13
Do You Need a Graphics Driver?
Decide whether you actually need to install a graphics driver.
You are making a decision. Not every system needs a custom graphics driver. In many cases, the default driver is the best choice.
When you do NOT need a driver
You can skip this step if:
- The screen looks correct
- Resolution is normal
- No flickering or visual issues
- Videos play smoothly
- The system feels responsive
In this case:
Continue to Step 13.
When you MAY need a driver
You may need a driver if you have:
Display problems
- Wrong resolution
- Screen flickering
- Black screen after login
Performance issues
- Slow animations
- Lag when opening applications
- Poor video playback
Special use cases
- Gaming that needs better performance
- AI or machine learning tools
- CUDA support (NVIDIA GPUs)
- 3D or graphics-heavy software
One important warning
Drivers are one of the most common sources of problems on Linux.
Installing them can:
- Break your display
- Prevent the system from starting
- Cause instability
Only proceed if you clearly need one.
Simple rule
If everything works:
Do nothing.
If something is clearly wrong:
You may need a driver.
What happens next
If you need a driver, you will install it in the next step.
If not, skip ahead.
What happens next
Need a driver
Continue to Step 12 and install the exact driver recommended for your hardware.
Go to Step 12No driver needed
Skip ahead if the system already works correctly with the default driver.
Skip to Step 13