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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →NVIDIA GeForce Game Ready Driver 576.40 WHQL is a Windows driver released on May 12, 2025, for supported GeForce GPUs. It is a historical release, not the latest driver: NVIDIA’s listing dated October 6, 2026 identifies version 617.42 WHQL. If you need the newest driver, use NVIDIA’s current driver selector or the NVIDIA app; use 576.40 only when you specifically need this version and have confirmed compatibility.
What GeForce 576.40 includes
NVIDIA announced 576.40 as a Game Ready driver for DOOM: The Dark Ages and highlighted New World: Aeternum, including its DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation and Reflex update. The release notes describe the package as providing a gaming experience for new games supporting DLSS 4; that is NVIDIA’s characterization, not an independent performance comparison. See NVIDIA’s May 12, 2025 announcement and the 576.40 release notes.
NVIDIA also reported 15 new or updated NVIDIA app DLSS overrides, seven newly validated G-SYNC Compatible displays, and two new Optimal Playable Settings profiles. CUDA 12.9 support and support for the GeForce RTX 5060 Ti were introduced in the broader Release 575 driver branch; they should not be treated as changes exclusive to 576.40.
Is 576.40 still the latest driver?
No. NVIDIA’s driver listing dated October 6, 2026 shows Game Ready Driver 617.42 WHQL for Windows 10 64-bit and Windows 11. That establishes a later listed release, not that 576.40 has been withdrawn. For a routine update, select a driver for your exact GPU and Windows version on NVIDIA’s driver page or check the NVIDIA app. NVIDIA distinguishes Game Ready releases, aimed at launch-day game support, from Studio releases, aimed at creative-workflow reliability; NVIDIA says both can support games and creative apps. More about the driver programs is on its GeForce Game Ready Drivers page.
#1 Best Overall
- AI Performance: 767 AI TOPS
- OC mode: 2632 MHz (OC mode)/ 2602 MHz (Default mode)
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4
- Axial-tech fan design features a smaller fan hub that facilitates longer blades and a barrier ring that increases downward air pressure
- A 2.5-slot design maximizes compatibility and cooling efficiency for superior performance in small chassis
Check compatibility before downloading
The 576.40 Windows release notes cover Windows 10 version 1803 and later, including Windows 11, and provide separate supported-product tables for desktop and notebook GPUs. Check the exact GPU model against those tables; a product-series name alone may not establish support. The notes list OpenCL 3.0 for Maxwell and later, OpenGL 4.6, Vulkan 1.4, DirectX 11, and DirectX 12.
For a notebook, NVIDIA’s package is a reference driver for supported notebook GPUs. Check the laptop maker’s certified driver guidance for your specific computer first: the OEM may not support problems caused by installing NVIDIA’s reference package. NVIDIA also recommends backing up the notebook’s current system configuration before installation.
Rank #2
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4
- Powered by GeForce RTX 5060
- Integrated with 8GB GDDR7 128bit memory interface
- PCIe 5.0
- WINDFORCE cooling system
How to download and install 576.40
- Confirm the version is what you need. For a current update, use NVIDIA’s driver selector or NVIDIA app instead of choosing this older release by default.
- Verify your hardware and OS. Use the supported desktop or notebook GPU tables in the 576.40 release notes, and follow your laptop maker’s guidance if applicable.
- Get the package from NVIDIA. NVIDIA’s release announcement directs users to the NVIDIA app’s Drivers tab or GeForce.com. Avoid untrusted download sources.
- Run the installer. Save or run the downloaded file, allow it to extract, then follow the NVIDIA Installer prompts. NVIDIA says to allow approximately 1.5 times the download size in disk space for extraction and temporary files.
The release notes say the installer omits the PhysX component when the same or a later version is already installed. They identify CUDA 12.9 and NVIDIA PhysX System Software 9.23.1019 among the software module versions in this release.
Fixes NVIDIA lists for version 576.40
NVIDIA’s version-specific notes list the following fixes. The notes say their fix list is a subset of the changes made in the driver; the entries are NVIDIA-reported and are not a guarantee that every setup will see the same result.
Rank #3
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4. System Requirements: Minimum 850W PSU with 16-pin 12V-2x6 (12VHPWR) connector required. Verify before purchasing.
- Military-grade components deliver rock-solid power and longer lifespan for ultimate durability. Compatibility: 348mm (13.7") length, 3.6 slots, 4.3 lbs. Confirm case clearance and slot spacing. GPU bracket included.
- Protective PCB coating helps protect against short circuits caused by moisture, dust, or debris
- 3.6-slot design with massive fin array optimized for airflow from three Axial-tech fans
- Phase-change GPU thermal pad helps ensure optimal thermal performance and longevity, outlasting traditional thermal paste for graphics cards under heavy loads
- Random stability issues in Monster Hunter Wilds.
- Shadow flicker in Dead Space Remake on RTX 50 Series GPUs.
- Slightly oversaturated colors on RTX 50 Series GPUs when the in-game resolution is below the monitor’s native resolution.
- A black screen at boot with specified ASUS/ROG monitor combinations.
- Slight stutter on certain LG TVs at lower refresh rates with G-SYNC enabled.
Known issues in the release notes
NVIDIA also documented unresolved issues for this release. Their presence in the notes does not mean every user or configuration is affected.
- Flicker or corruption around light sources in Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut.
- A Cyberpunk 2077 Photo Mode crash when taking a screenshot with path tracing enabled.
- Crashes in F1 23 and F1 24 at the end of a race.
- Possible crashes during gameplay in EA Sports FC 25.
NVIDIA notes that notebook issues can be specific to a system and that some reported problems may not be caused by the NVIDIA driver. If you encounter a problem with a Game Ready release, NVIDIA’s announcement points users to the GeForce.com Driver Feedback Forum for detailed reports.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- AI Performance: 1005 AI TOPS
- OC mode boosts clock 2587 MHz (OC mode) / 2557 MHz (Default mode)
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4
- SFF-Ready enthusiast GeForce card compatible with small-form-factor builds
- Axial-tech fans feature a smaller fan hub that facilitates longer blades and a barrier ring that increases downward air pressure
Rank #4
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4
- Powered by GeForce RTX 5070 Ti
- Integrated with 16GB GDDR7 256bit memory interface
- PCIe 5.0
- WINDFORCE cooling system
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