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Installing the correct NVIDIA driver on Linux Mint gives you better graphics performance and proper hardware support for gaming, CUDA, and display features.
Step 1: Update the System
Before installing the NVIDIA driver on Linux Mint, it’s essential to update your system packages to ensure compatibility and a smooth installation process. Keeping your system up to date helps prevent conflicts with existing software and dependencies.
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
Quickly install kernel headers if needed:
sudo apt install build-essential linux-headers-$(uname -r) -y
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Step 2: Detect Your NVIDIA GPU and Recommended Driver
To install the correct NVIDIA driver, you first need to identify your GPU model and check which driver version is recommended for it. This ensures optimal performance and avoids compatibility issues with Linux Mint.
lspci -nn | grep -i nvidia
Show recommended drivers:
ubuntu-drivers devices
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Step 3: Add the Official NVIDIA PPA
Adding the official NVIDIA PPA can provide access to the latest stable drivers, which may include performance improvements and bug fixes not available in the default repositories.
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:graphics-drivers/ppa
Update package lists after adding PPA:
sudo apt update
Step 4: Install the NVIDIA driver package
Install the specific driver version shown by ubuntu-drivers (replace nvidia-driver-535 with the recommended package).
sudo apt install nvidia-driver-535 -y
Or let the tool auto-install the recommended driver:
Or let the tool auto-install the recommended driver:ChatGPT said:
Step 5: Blacklist Nouveau if Required
To prevent conflicts with NVIDIA drivers, it may be necessary to disable the default Nouveau driver by blacklisting it. This ensures a smooth installation and proper functioning of your NVIDIA GPU.
echo -e "blacklist nouveau\noptions nouveau modeset=0" | sudo tee /etc/modprobe.d/blacklist-nouveau.conf
Regenerate initramfs after blacklisting:
sudo update-initramfs -u
Step 6: Reboot the System
After blacklisting Nouveau and preparing for the NVIDIA driver installation, it is essential to reboot your system. This ensures all changes take effect and the system is ready for a clean driver setup.
sudo reboot
After reboot, check driver in use:
nvidia-smi
Step 7: Verify the NVIDIA Driver is Active
Once your system has rebooted, it’s important to confirm that the NVIDIA driver is properly installed and active. This step ensures your GPU is correctly recognized and ready for optimal performance.
nvidia-smi
Also check kernel module and Xorg driver:
lsmod | grep nvidia
Step 8: Troubleshoot Common Issues
Even after a successful installation, you may encounter minor issues with the NVIDIA driver. This step helps identify and resolve common problems to ensure your GPU works smoothly and efficiently.
sudo journalctl -b0 | grep -i nvidia
Check Xorg log for driver errors:
sudo grep -i nvidia /var/log/Xorg.0.log || sudo journalctl -u display-manager --no-pager
