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How to Use Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling on Windows 11

Quick Tips
  • Hardware-accelerated GPU Scheduling (HAGS) can improve frame rates and reduce latency in games and demanding applications.
  • Enable HAGS by going to Windows Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Change default graphics settings. Toggle the switch for Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling.
  • Another way? Open Registry Editor > go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers > create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named HwSchMode > set the value to 2.

What Is Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling?

Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling (HAGS) is a feature that allows the GPU to manage its own memory and schedule tasks, reducing the workload on the CPU. The primary goal is to improve performance and reduce latency in graphical tasks, especially in gaming and other graphics-intensive applications.

  • System Requirements: Ensure your system has an NVIDIA GT 1030 or later, or an AMD 5600 or later GPU, and the latest graphics drivers.

How Does HAGS Work?

  • With HAGS enabled, the GPU takes over the scheduling of its tasks and memory management.
  • Allows the GPU to handle graphics tasks more efficiently and with lower latency.
  • The CPU is freed up to handle other tasks, potentially improving overall system performance.

How to Enable Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling

Hardware-accelerated GPU Scheduling is disabled by default on Windows 11. Therefore, you must enable it manually. Let’s begin.

Method 1: Using the Settings App

Step 1: Press the Windows + I keys to open the Settings app.

Step 2: In the Settings window, stay on the System tab and click on Display.

Display in System Settings on Windows 11

Step 3: Under Display settings, scroll down and click Graphics.

Step 4: Click on the blue Change Default Graphics Settings option.

Click on the blue 'Change Default Graphics Settings' option in Windows 11

Step 5: On the Default graphics settings screen, turn on the toggle for Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling. After that, restart your PC to apply the changes.

turning on hardware accelerated GPU scheduling in Windows 11

Method 2: Using Registry Editor

Step 1: Press the Windows key + R keys and type regedit in the text field. Then, press Enter.

Step 2: Copy and paste the following location into the navigation bar:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers

Step 3: Right-click anywhere in the right pane and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.

removing DWORD (32-bit) Value from registry editor

Step 4: Type HwSchMode > press Enter to create the new DWORD (32-bit) Value.

Step 5: After you create the new HwSchMode DWORD, double-click on the new entry to edit its value.

Newly created entry HwSchMode in Registry Editor

Step 6: Set its value data to 2. Then, click on OK.

Editing HwSchMode registry entry

Restart your PC to apply the changes. With this, you have successfully turned on Hardware-accelerated GPU Scheduling on your Windows machine.

FAQs

1. Can I use hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling with any application or game?

While many applications and games can benefit from this feature, its impact may vary. Some applications may see more improvement than others, and not all software may be optimized to take full advantage of hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling.

2. Can I disable hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling if I encounter issues?

Yes, you can disable hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling by going to Settings > System > Display > Graphics settings and toggling off Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling.

3. Does hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling impact battery life on laptops?

The impact on battery life is minimal, as hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling primarily affects the performance and scheduling of the GPU during graphics-intensive tasks.

4. Does hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling increase CPU usage?

While Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling typically reduces the overall CPU workload, it may initially see a slight increase in CPU usage as the GPU takes over scheduling tasks. This temporary bump shouldn’t affect performance and should settle down quickly.

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Last updated on 20 August, 2024

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