How To Fix Generic PnP Monitor Driver Errors in Windows OS

The “Generic PnP Monitor” error is a common issue that Windows users face when connecting an external monitor or after installing a new display driver. This generic monitor driver is installed when Windows fails to recognize your monitor model and uses a basic driver instead.

Fortunately, there are several ways to fix the generic PnP monitor driver error on Windows 10 and 11. This article provides a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve this issue using different methods.

What Causes the Generic PnP Monitor Error?

Here are some common reasons why you might see the generic PnP monitor error:

  • Outdated or corrupt display drivers
  • Improper monitor cable connections
  • Incompatible monitor or graphics card
  • Corrupt system files related to the display driver
  • Driver conflicts after a Windows Update

How to Fix the Generic PnP Monitor Driver Issue

Follow these solutions to fix the generic monitor driver problem:

1. Check Cable Connections

First, ensure all video cables connecting your monitor to the PC are plugged in correctly on both ends.

Disconnect and reconnect the cables and check if the issue is resolved. If using a laptop, toggle the display mode using FN + Display toggle key.

2. Update Display Drivers

Outdated graphics card drivers often cause display problems. Update drivers in Device Manager:

  • Right-click the Start menu and select Device Manager
  • Expand Display adapters
  • Right-click the graphics card > Update driver
  • Search automatically for updated driver software

Also, visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website and install the latest driver available.

Restart your PC after the driver update.

3. Update Monitor Drivers

Similarly, update monitor drivers:

  • In Device Manager, expand Monitors
  • Right-click Generic PnP Monitor > Update driver
  • Select Search automatically for updated driver software

Windows will search and install the correct driver for your monitor model.

4. Uninstall Generic PnP Monitor Driver

If updating drivers does not work, uninstall the generic monitor driver:

  • In Device Manager, expand Monitors
  • Right-click Generic PnP Monitor > Uninstall device
  • Restart your PC

Windows will reinstall the driver automatically using the correct driver.

5. Use System File Checker

Corrupt Windows system files could also cause display driver issues. Run the System File Checker tool:

  • Type cmd in the Start menu
  • Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator
  • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter

This will scan and replace corrupt system files.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

Driver conflicts from third-party applications can also cause display problems. Perform a clean boot in Windows:

  • Press Win + R to open Run
  • Type msconfig and click OK
  • Go to the Services tab
  • Check Hide all Microsoft services
  • Click Disable all
  • Go to Startup tab and open Task Manager
  • Disable startup apps
  • Restart PC

Check if the issue persists in clean boot. If the error is gone, it indicates a driver conflict.

Conclusion

The generic PnP monitor error in Windows can occur due to various reasons, such as outdated drivers, cable connections, hardware problems or corrupt system files.

Following the troubleshooting guide outlined in this article should help resolve the problem in most cases. Make sure to keep your system and drivers updated to avoid facing monitor driver issues.

Let me know if the solutions worked for you or if you have any other questions!