How to Disable Onboard Gpu on Asus Eufi Bios

This guide walks you through disabling the onboard GPU on ASUS UEFI BIOS to ensure your system uses a dedicated graphics card. You’ll learn why it’s important, how to access BIOS, and troubleshoot common issues.

Key Takeaways

• Why disable onboard GPU? Prevents conflicts when using a dedicated graphics card and improves performance in gaming or video editing.
• Accessing UEFI BIOS: Restart your PC and press F2 or DEL during boot to enter the BIOS setup.
• Navigate to Advanced Mode: Use F7 to switch from EZ Mode to Advanced Mode for full control over settings.
• Locate Graphics Settings: Go to Advanced > System Agent Configuration > Graphics Configuration to find GPU options.
• Disable iGPU: Set “Primary Display” to “PCIe” or “PEG” and disable “iGPU Multi-Monitor” if present.
• Save and Exit: Press F10 to save changes and restart your computer.
• Troubleshooting Tips: If display fails, reset CMOS or re-enable iGPU temporarily to regain access.

How to Disable Onboard GPU on ASUS UEFI BIOS

If you’ve recently installed a dedicated graphics card—like an NVIDIA GeForce RTX or AMD Radeon RX—you might want to disable your computer’s onboard (or integrated) GPU. This ensures your system uses the more powerful dedicated GPU for better performance in gaming, video editing, 3D rendering, and other graphics-intensive tasks.

Many modern motherboards, especially those from ASUS, come with built-in graphics processing units (iGPUs) that share system memory and CPU resources. While useful for basic tasks or troubleshooting, they can interfere with your dedicated GPU if both are active. Disabling the onboard GPU in the UEFI BIOS helps avoid display conflicts, improves system stability, and ensures your powerful graphics card gets full attention from your system.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of disabling the onboard GPU on an ASUS motherboard using the UEFI BIOS interface. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned PC builder, we’ll keep things simple, clear, and easy to follow. You’ll learn how to access the BIOS, navigate the settings, make the right changes, and troubleshoot any issues that might arise.

Let’s get started!

What Is an Onboard GPU?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what we mean by “onboard GPU.” Also known as an integrated graphics processor (iGPU), this is a graphics chip built directly into your CPU or motherboard. It handles basic display output when no dedicated graphics card is installed.

For example, Intel CPUs with “UHD Graphics” or “Iris Xe” and AMD Ryzen processors with “Vega” graphics include an iGPU. These are great for everyday use—browsing, office work, streaming—but they lack the power needed for modern gaming or professional applications.

When you install a dedicated GPU (also called a discrete GPU), your system can choose which graphics processor to use. However, in some cases, the system might still default to the onboard GPU, especially during boot or when multiple displays are connected. This can lead to poor performance, display issues, or even failure to detect your new graphics card.

Disabling the onboard GPU ensures that your system only uses the dedicated GPU, eliminating potential conflicts and maximizing performance.

Why Disable the Onboard GPU?

You might be wondering: “Do I really need to disable the onboard GPU?” The short answer is: it depends. But in most cases, especially if you have a powerful dedicated GPU, disabling the iGPU is a smart move.

Here are the top reasons to disable the onboard GPU:

• Improved Performance: Your dedicated GPU is designed for high-performance tasks. By disabling the iGPU, you ensure all graphics processing is handled by the more capable card.
• Avoid Display Conflicts: Some systems may send video output to the motherboard’s video ports even when a dedicated GPU is installed. This can cause confusion, especially if you have multiple monitors.
• Better Resource Allocation: The iGPU uses system RAM as video memory. Disabling it frees up RAM and reduces CPU overhead.
• Cleaner Boot Process: Disabling the iGPU can speed up boot times and prevent the system from initializing unnecessary hardware.
• Compatibility with Certain Software: Some applications, like VR headsets or professional rendering tools, require exclusive use of the dedicated GPU.

That said, there are a few exceptions. For example, if you’re using a laptop or a mini PC without a dedicated GPU, you’ll need the iGPU. Also, some motherboards allow you to use both GPUs simultaneously (e.g., for multi-monitor setups), but this is less common and can cause instability.

For most desktop users with a dedicated graphics card, disabling the onboard GPU is the best practice.

Before You Begin: Important Precautions

Before making any changes to your BIOS, it’s important to take a few precautions to avoid potential issues.

1. Ensure Your Dedicated GPU Is Properly Installed

Make sure your graphics card is securely seated in the correct PCIe slot (usually the top x16 slot) and that all power connectors from your PSU are attached. Also, connect your monitor to the video output on the graphics card—not the motherboard.

2. Update Your BIOS (Optional but Recommended)

An outdated BIOS might lack the latest features or bug fixes. Visit the ASUS support website, enter your motherboard model, and check for BIOS updates. Follow the instructions carefully—flashing the BIOS incorrectly can brick your motherboard.

3. Have a Backup Plan

If something goes wrong and you lose display output, you’ll need a way to recover. Keep a USB drive with your motherboard’s BIOS file handy, and know how to reset the CMOS (we’ll cover this in the troubleshooting section).

4. Know Your Motherboard Model

Different ASUS motherboards may have slightly different BIOS layouts. Knowing your exact model (e.g., ROG Strix B550-F, TUF Gaming X570-Plus) will help you find the right settings and support documentation.

Step-by-Step Guide: Disabling Onboard GPU in ASUS UEFI BIOS

Now that you’re prepared, let’s walk through the process of disabling the onboard GPU in the ASUS UEFI BIOS.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Begin by restarting your PC. You can do this from the Windows Start menu or by pressing the reset button on your case.

Step 2: Enter UEFI BIOS

As your computer starts up, you’ll see the ASUS logo on the screen. This is your cue to press the BIOS key. On most ASUS motherboards, this is either F2 or DEL.

Press the key repeatedly (don’t hold it down) as soon as the logo appears. If you miss it, just restart and try again.

Once you’re in, you’ll see the UEFI BIOS interface. It may look intimidating at first, but don’t worry—we’ll guide you through it.

Step 3: Switch to Advanced Mode

By default, ASUS UEFI BIOS opens in “EZ Mode,” which is a simplified interface with basic settings. To access the full range of options, you need to switch to “Advanced Mode.”

Look for a button or option labeled “Advanced Mode” in the bottom-right corner. Alternatively, press F7 on your keyboard. This will switch you to the full BIOS menu.

Step 4: Navigate to Advanced Settings

In Advanced Mode, use the arrow keys or mouse to navigate the menu. We’re looking for the Advanced tab, usually located at the top of the screen.

Click or select it to open the advanced settings menu.

Step 5: Open System Agent Configuration

Inside the Advanced menu, look for an option called System Agent Configuration (on Intel motherboards) or AMD CBS (on AMD motherboards). The exact name may vary slightly depending on your chipset.

Select it to open the submenu.

Step 6: Access Graphics Configuration

Within System Agent Configuration, find and select Graphics Configuration. This is where you’ll manage your GPU settings.

Here, you’ll see several options related to graphics. The key ones to look for are:

• Primary Display: This determines which GPU your system uses first during boot.
• iGPU Multi-Monitor: Allows the iGPU to drive additional displays even when a dedicated GPU is present.
• DVMT Pre-Allocated Memory: Sets how much system RAM is reserved for the iGPU.

Step 7: Set Primary Display to PCIe or PEG

Find the Primary Display option. It’s usually set to “Auto” by default, which lets the system decide.

Change this setting to PCIe or PEG (PCI Express Graphics). This tells your system to prioritize the dedicated GPU over the onboard one.

Some motherboards may list options like “IGFX” (integrated graphics) or “PCI” (older PCI slots). Make sure you select the one that corresponds to your PCIe x16 slot.

Step 8: Disable iGPU Multi-Monitor (If Available)

If you see an option called iGPU Multi-Monitor or Multi-Monitor Support, set it to Disabled. This prevents the system from using the iGPU for additional displays, which can cause conflicts.

Note: On some newer ASUS boards, this option may not appear if the iGPU is already set to be secondary.

Step 9: Adjust DVMT Pre-Allocated Memory (Optional)

If you want to free up more system RAM, you can reduce the DVMT Pre-Allocated Memory setting. This is the amount of RAM reserved for the iGPU.

Set it to the lowest value (e.g., 32MB or 64MB) or disable it entirely if the option exists. However, if you completely disable the iGPU, this setting may not be visible.

Step 10: Save and Exit

Once you’ve made your changes, it’s time to save and reboot.

Press F10 on your keyboard. A confirmation dialog will appear asking if you want to save changes and exit.

Select “Yes” or “OK.” Your computer will restart.

What to Expect After Disabling the Onboard GPU

After your system reboots, it should now use only your dedicated GPU. Here’s what you might notice:

• Faster Boot Times: With fewer components to initialize, your system may boot slightly faster.
• Improved Performance: Games and applications should run smoother, especially if they were previously defaulting to the iGPU.
• No Display from Motherboard Ports: If you plug a monitor into the motherboard’s HDMI or DisplayPort, it won’t show anything. All video output should come from your graphics card.

If everything works as expected, congratulations—you’ve successfully disabled the onboard GPU!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

No Display After BIOS Changes

If your screen stays black after saving and exiting BIOS, don’t panic. This usually means the system is trying to use the wrong GPU or the display output is misconfigured.

Try these steps:

• Check Monitor Connection: Make sure your monitor is plugged into the graphics card, not the motherboard.
• Reset CMOS: Turn off your PC, unplug it, and locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard. Remove it for 5–10 minutes, then reinsert it. This resets BIOS settings to default.
• Use BIOS Flashback (if available): Some ASUS motherboards have a BIOS Flashback button. Use it to restore the default BIOS from a USB drive.
• Re-enter BIOS via Safe Mode: If your system boots but shows no display, try booting into Windows Safe Mode and reinstalling GPU drivers.

System Boots but Uses Wrong GPU

If your system still uses the iGPU despite your changes, double-check the BIOS settings. Make sure:

• Primary Display is set to PCIe/PEG.
• iGPU Multi-Monitor is disabled.
• Your dedicated GPU is properly seated and powered.

You can also check in Windows:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand Display adapters.
3. You should see only your dedicated GPU listed. If the iGPU still appears, it may still be enabled.

Performance Issues Persist

If you’re not seeing a performance boost, ensure your GPU drivers are up to date. Visit the NVIDIA or AMD website and download the latest drivers for your card.

Also, check your power settings in Windows—set them to “High Performance” for best results.

BIOS Options Missing or Different

Not all ASUS motherboards have identical BIOS layouts. If you can’t find the Graphics Configuration menu, try:

• Looking under Advanced > Northbridge Configuration (older boards).
• Searching for “Integrated Graphics” or “iGPU” in the BIOS search bar (if available).
• Consulting your motherboard’s manual or ASUS support page.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Here are a few extra tips to make the process even easier:

• Take Screenshots: Before making changes, take a photo of your current BIOS settings with your phone. This helps you revert if needed.
• Use a Wired Keyboard: Some BIOS versions don’t support wireless keyboards. Use a wired one to avoid input issues.
• Update GPU Drivers First: Install the latest drivers for your graphics card before disabling the iGPU. This ensures compatibility.
• Test Before Committing: After disabling the iGPU, run a benchmark or game to confirm performance improvements.

Conclusion

Disabling the onboard GPU on an ASUS UEFI BIOS is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your system’s performance and stability—especially if you’re using a dedicated graphics card. By following the steps in this guide, you’ve learned how to access the BIOS, navigate to the graphics settings, and make the necessary changes to prioritize your PCIe GPU.

Remember, the key steps are: entering BIOS with F2 or DEL, switching to Advanced Mode with F7, navigating to Graphics Configuration, setting Primary Display to PCIe/PEG, and disabling iGPU Multi-Monitor. Always save your changes with F10 and be prepared to troubleshoot with a CMOS reset if needed.

Whether you’re building a gaming rig, upgrading your workstation, or just optimizing your current setup, disabling the onboard GPU is a smart move. It ensures your powerful graphics card gets the full attention it deserves—without interference from the integrated graphics.

Now that you’ve completed this process, enjoy the smoother gameplay, faster rendering, and overall better performance. And if you ever need to re-enable the iGPU (for example, if your dedicated GPU fails), you can always go back into BIOS and reverse the changes.

Happy computing!