ubuntu remove nvidia drivers - NVIDIA Ubuntu Driver Removal Guide

If you’re searching for “ubuntu remove nvidia drivers,” you likely want a clean, reliable way to purge proprietary NVIDIA packages and switch back to the open‑source Nouveau or the default X.Org stack. This guide shows you how to safely remove NVIDIA drivers on supported Ubuntu versions and restore a stable display.

Applies to Video Adapters on Ubuntu desktops and laptops. Supported systems include: Ubuntu 18.04 LTS, Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, and Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.

Download details - NVIDIA Ubuntu Driver Removal Guide for Video Adapters

Supported OS:

Date added: 2025-11-21

Tip: If you came here to fix display issues after removal, reinstalling a clean package can help. Click on the download link.

How to install

Troubleshooting after removal

• Black screen or login loop:
  • Remove forced configs: sudo rm -f /etc/X11/xorg.conf /usr/share/X11/xorg.conf.d/10-nvidia.conf
  • Ensure NVIDIA modules are gone: lsmod | grep nvidia (should show nothing)
  • Reinstall X.Org and Nouveau: sudo apt install --reinstall xserver-xorg-core xserver-xorg-video-nouveau
• Secure Boot prevents loading Nouveau:
  • Enter UEFI settings and temporarily disable Secure Boot, or enroll a MOK for signed modules.
• Unmet dependencies or held packages:
  • sudo apt -f install
  • sudo apt autoremove --purge
  • Check holds: apt-mark showhold
• Wayland vs X.Org session:
  • On the login screen, click the gear icon and choose “Ubuntu on Xorg” if Wayland misbehaves after removal.
• NVIDIA PPA still present:
  • Open “Software & Updates” → “Other Software” and uncheck/remove graphics‑drivers PPA, then: sudo apt update

FAQ

How do I confirm NVIDIA is fully removed?

Run: dpkg -l | grep -i nvidia. No lines should list installed NVIDIA packages. Also check lsmod | grep nvidia returns empty.

How do I switch to Nouveau after I remove NVIDIA?

Install and enable the open‑source stack: sudo apt install --reinstall xserver-xorg-video-nouveau xserver-xorg-core mesa-vulkan-drivers, then sudo update-initramfs -u and reboot.

Will “ubuntu remove nvidia drivers” affect CUDA?

Yes. Purging NVIDIA usually removes CUDA libraries and the kernel driver. If you still need CUDA for compute, consider keeping the driver or using a containerized environment.

How do I stop Ubuntu from reinstalling NVIDIA automatically?

Remove related PPAs, set “Additional Drivers” to “X.Org X server - Nouveau,” and avoid running ubuntu-drivers autoinstall.

Which Ubuntu versions does this guide cover?

Ubuntu 18.04 LTS, Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, and Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.

Can I reinstall NVIDIA later?

Yes. Use “Software & Updates” → “Additional Drivers,” or sudo ubuntu-drivers autoinstall. If you reinstall, reboot before launching GPU apps.

Why download from driverfiles.net

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