AMD Officially Requires Windows 11 for Latest Graphics Cards

AMD has just released the Ryzen chipset driver update package 7.02.13.148, which includes many new programs to improve application compatibility, support Microsoft Pluton, and many other features.

In addition, “Team Red” has also posted a new support document on its website, sharing information regarding UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) support on the latest RX 9000 series graphics cards. AMD launched the 9070 series GPUs last week to compete with Nvidia’s RTX 5070/Ti cards. The initial response seems to be quite positive as the company promises performance close to the RTX 5070 Ti at a price just a little higher than the RTX 5070. In addition to gaming, AI/ML performance and media encoding/decoding are also significantly improved.

AMD Officially Requires Windows 11 for Latest Graphics Cards

In its new UEFI support document, AMD states that Radeon GPUs from the 9000 series onwards will only officially support UEFI mode. As a result, if your system is configured to use a legacy BIOS or CSM (compatibility support module), it may not work and will not boot.

This requirement is similar to Windows 11. In other words, UEFI/Secure Boot will become mandatory to enhance operating system security. In addition to security, UEFI also brings many other benefits such as Fast Boot. AMD explains:

Compared to the old "legacy" BIOS firmware, UEFI firmware offers many new and useful features, including:

  • Security is greatly improved
  • Well-defined interfaces ensure interoperability and testability
  • Reliable firmware updates from the internet with little user interaction
  • Support hard drives larger than 2.2TB
  • Support for a wide range of new PC hardware, including the ability to boot from NVMe SSDs
  • Windows® Secure Boot to prevent malware
  • Faster shutdown, startup, sleep and resume times

To take full advantage of UEFI, only UEFI mode will be officially supported starting with the 4th generation of AMD RDNA™ graphics cards (Radeon™ RX 9000 Series and later).

AMD also touts ReSizable BAR, also known as Smart Access Memory in the case of Radeon, as a UEFI benefit.

The documentation also suggests that performance and compatibility issues may occur if users do not enable UEFI firmware on their systems:

It is important that your PC is configured for UEFI mode to ensure compatibility, performance, and optimal user experience with AMD Radeon™ RX 9000 Series and newer graphics cards.

This means that unsupported devices running Windows 11 without UEFI/Secure Boot will not work optimally with Radeon 9000 series graphics cards, and therefore you should upgrade to a new PC.

Additionally, if you're wondering whether your current graphics card's VGA BIOS (vBIOS) comes with a UEFI module, you can use TechPowerUp's GPU-Z tool to check, which currently has a small catalog containing relevant information.

Leave a Comment

AMD, Intel from friends to enemies, together against the fear of Arm

AMD, Intel from friends to enemies, together against the fear of Arm

AMD and Intel - “Team Red” and “Team Blue”, the world's two leading semiconductor chip manufacturers, who have been sworn enemies, always competing with each other on all fronts in the “x86 arms race” for many years, have suddenly recently turned from enemies to friends.

AMD Ryzen Master Discontinues Support for Threadripper and Ryzen 1st and 2nd Generation CPUs, Users Take Note!

AMD Ryzen Master Discontinues Support for Threadripper and Ryzen 1st and 2nd Generation CPUs, Users Take Note!

Last month, AMD released a new version of Ryzen Master, an application that helps tweak and overclock Ryzen and Threadripper-branded processors.

AMD claims upcoming chips could “outclass” rival Nvidia

AMD claims upcoming chips could “outclass” rival Nvidia

It seems like AMD is trying to raise market expectations for the upcoming MI325X processor.

Intel loses $30 billion PlayStation 6 chip contract

Intel loses $30 billion PlayStation 6 chip contract

Intel has reportedly lost the race to supply processors for Sony's next-generation gaming console, the PlayStation 6.

RX 9070 XT performance gradually revealed, is it enough to make Nvidia fear?

RX 9070 XT performance gradually revealed, is it enough to make Nvidia fear?

At this year's CES 2025 event, AMD refrained from revealing long-awaited details about its new flagship Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU, which is built on the RDNA 4 architecture.

AMD Variable Graphics Memory Launched: Solution to Improve Gaming Experience on AMD CPUs

AMD Variable Graphics Memory Launched: Solution to Improve Gaming Experience on AMD CPUs

AMD Strix Point laptop users will now get a new feature called Variable Graphics Memory.

AMD wants to compete directly with Apples Max-Series M chips

AMD wants to compete directly with Apples Max-Series M chips

There have been a lot of rumors lately that AMD seems to be planning to withdraw from the GPU market.

AMD Announces Pricing and Expected Release Date for Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D

AMD Announces Pricing and Expected Release Date for Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D

AMD has finally announced the release date and pricing of its highly anticipated Ryzen 9000X3D processors.

AMD Sets Launch Date for Next-Generation Portable Gaming PC Chip: Z2 Extreme

AMD Sets Launch Date for Next-Generation Portable Gaming PC Chip: Z2 Extreme

MD has officially confirmed for the first time that it is working on the next generation version of its Z-series handheld gaming CPU, called the Z2 Extreme.

Intel begins to lose CPU market share in China while AMD grows strongly

Intel begins to lose CPU market share in China while AMD grows strongly

With the unimpressive performance of recent CPU generations, Intel seems to be losing popularity in the Chinese market, where rival AMD is increasingly gaining popularity.

AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series Officially Launched

AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series Officially Launched

Back in December 2023, AMD introduced the Ryz 8040 (Hawk Point) series mobile APUs, while also revealing a few brief details about the next-generation Strix Point series.

AMDs 9000-Series CPUs Are Here, But Why Not Buy Now?

AMDs 9000-Series CPUs Are Here, But Why Not Buy Now?

After a long wait, AMD has finally announced the official launch date of its first new desktop CPU line developed on the Zen 5 architecture: Ryzen 9000.

AMD Reshapes Radeon GPU Brand Segments

AMD Reshapes Radeon GPU Brand Segments

Unlike its desktop CPU division, AMD's GPU business can't seem to agree on how to name its commercial discrete cards.

AMD Ryzen 9950X3D/9800X3D on Windows 10 outperforms Windows 11 at Microsoft recommended settings

AMD Ryzen 9950X3D/9800X3D on Windows 10 outperforms Windows 11 at Microsoft recommended settings

After a long wait, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D has finally been officially launched, serving as a strategic product in AMD's top-of-the-line X3D CPU line.

How to Use Windows 11 Quick Assist for Help

How to Use Windows 11 Quick Assist for Help

Discover how to use Windows 11 Quick Assist for seamless remote support. Learn step-by-step setup, troubleshooting, and tips to help friends or family with tech issues instantly.

Troubleshooting Windows 11 Dual Monitor Lag Fixes

Troubleshooting Windows 11 Dual Monitor Lag Fixes

Struggling with dual monitor lag on Windows 11? Discover proven troubleshooting fixes to eliminate stuttering, delays, and performance issues for seamless multi-monitor setups. Step-by-step guide inside.

How to Fix Windows 11 Startup Settings Blank Error

How to Fix Windows 11 Startup Settings Blank Error

Struggling with the frustrating Windows 11 "Startup Settings" blank error? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to restore your boot options quickly and get your PC running smoothly again. No tech expertise needed!

How to Activate Windows 11 Enterprise with KMS

How to Activate Windows 11 Enterprise with KMS

Discover how to activate Windows 11 Enterprise using KMS effortlessly. This comprehensive guide covers everything from requirements to troubleshooting, ensuring seamless activation for your business needs.

How to Fix Windows 11 Kmode Exception Not Handled

How to Fix Windows 11 Kmode Exception Not Handled

Struggling with the dreaded KMODE EXCEPTION NOT HANDLED error on Windows 11? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to resolve this blue screen nightmare quickly and get your PC running smoothly again. No tech expertise needed!

Troubleshooting Windows 11 Motherboard Driver Error Fix

Troubleshooting Windows 11 Motherboard Driver Error Fix

Struggling with Windows 11 "Motherboard" Driver Error? Discover proven troubleshooting steps to fix it fast and get your PC running smoothly again. Easy, step-by-step guide for beginners.

How to Fix Windows 11 Ping Spikes Over Wi-Fi Fixes

How to Fix Windows 11 Ping Spikes Over Wi-Fi Fixes

Struggling with ping spikes on Windows 11 over Wi-Fi? Discover proven fixes to stabilize your connection, reduce lag, and enjoy smooth gaming or streaming. Step-by-step solutions for instant results.

How to Recover Deleted Photos in Windows 11

How to Recover Deleted Photos in Windows 11

Accidentally deleted precious photos? Discover proven methods to recover deleted photos in Windows 11 effortlessly. Step-by-step guides, tools, and tips to restore your images safely.

How to Use Windows 11 Terminal Instead of CMD

How to Use Windows 11 Terminal Instead of CMD

Discover how to use Windows 11 Terminal instead of CMD for a modern, efficient command-line interface. Learn installation, setup, and tips to boost your productivity with tabs, themes, and more.

How to Activate Windows 11 Pro Without a Product Key

How to Activate Windows 11 Pro Without a Product Key

Discover safe, legitimate ways to activate Windows 11 Pro without a product key. Learn step-by-step methods using built-in tools and official Microsoft options to get your OS up and running smoothly. No risks, no hassle – just pure productivity.

Fixing Battery Drain During Hibernate in Windows 11

Fixing Battery Drain During Hibernate in Windows 11

Struggling with battery drain during hibernate in Windows 11? Discover expert fixes to preserve your laptop

How to Fix Windows 11 Input Lag for Valorant and CS2

How to Fix Windows 11 Input Lag for Valorant and CS2

Struggling with input lag in Windows 11 while playing Valorant or CS2? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to restore smooth gameplay and boost your performance. Say goodbye to delays and hello to precision shots.

How to Fix Out of Memory Error in Microsoft Edge

How to Fix Out of Memory Error in Microsoft Edge

Struggling with the frustrating "Out of Memory" error in Microsoft Edge? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to reclaim your browsing speed and stability. Updated with the latest tips for optimal performance.

How to Fix Windows 11 Google Drive Not Launching Fix

How to Fix Windows 11 Google Drive Not Launching Fix

Struggling with Google Drive not launching on Windows 11? Discover proven fixes to resolve the issue fast, from restarts to advanced troubleshooting. Get your cloud storage working seamlessly today!

How to Disable Gamebar Presence Writer for Performance

How to Disable Gamebar Presence Writer for Performance

Discover how to disable Game Bar Presence Writer on Windows to optimize gaming performance. Step-by-step guide to reduce lag, boost FPS, and enhance your setup for smoother gameplay. Essential tips for gamers in 2026.