How to fix the Minecraft OpenGL Error on Windows 11/10?

Most PC games are developed with features that improve their performance and efficiency. For Minecraft, OpenGL is responsible for reducing the rendering load on the system, attempting to make the game run faster and smoother on a computer. It instructs the GPU to avoid rendering anything that is not in the player’s direct view. Of course, the tradeoff here is that while the GPU does less work, the CPU does the heavy lifting.

It is worth noting that OpenGL is enabled by default. So, it is quite common for players to run into OpenGL errors while playing Minecraft. Most of the time, issues related to this feature have to do with modules and third-party variables running concurrently. If you share the same problem, don’t worry because we’re going to teach you how to fix OpenGL while playing Minecraft.

The OpenGL Error

We assume you’re wondering: How do I fix OpenGL in Windows 11. That said, it is worth describing the conditions under which to identify the error.

When an OpenGL issue occurs, there’s usually some kind of error notification. Some Windows 11/10 users get the message reproduced below:

Graphics drivers error

Unable to initialize OpenGL. Please (re)install the latest graphics drivers and try again. If the problem persists, please contact support.

Error code: CS-1842

Version: 207864

At other times, and depending on the specific situation, the error message will be one of the following:

• Unable to initialize OpenGL window.
• Failed to initialize OpenGL.
• Could not initialize OpenGL.
• This driver does not appear to support OpenGL.
• The NVIDIA OpenGL driver lost connection with the display driver and is unable to continue.
• OpenGL profile requested but is unavailable.

Most users get any of these error messages when they’re playing a super modded version of Minecraft.

What Causes OpenGL Errors on Minecraft?

• A corrupt, missing or damaged graphics card driver
• Faulty or corrupt shaders
• Incorrectly or incompletely installed Java files

Any or all of these problems can cause OpenGL errors to appear. Now, if you want to know how to fix the OpenGL error that is persisting on your PC, follow the instructions we’ll share in this guide. We’ve included several solutions for you to try.

How to Fix Minecraft OpenGL Errors on Windows 11

All told, it’s worth knowing how to deal with OpenGL issues on your system. This applies even when you haven’t encountered the issue. Most Windows problems don’t announce their appearance beforehand. So, by learning these techniques on how to deal with the OpenGL render issue, you will be insulated from panic when you eventually face the situation. Of course, if you’re already dealing with it, that’s why you’re here and we’ve got solutions for you.

Solution 1: Updating Your Graphics Card Driver

Most of the time, OpenGL errors point back to outdated or corrupt graphics card drivers. In this case, the best workaround is to update your video card driver. Now, there are three ways you can do this:

• Updating the Graphics Card Driver via the Device Manager
• Downloading the Video Card Driver from the Manufacturer’s Website
• Using Auslogics Driver Updater’s One-Click Feature

Updating the Graphics Card Driver via the Device Manager

1. Go to your taskbar, then right-click the Windows icon.
2. Select Device Manager from the list.
3. Once the Device Manager is up, expand the contents of Display Adapters.
4. Right-click your graphics card, then select Update Driver from the context menu.

5. On the next window, click the ‘Search automatically for updated driver software’ option.

Let the Device Manager search for the latest version of your graphics card driver. The utility should also install the driver automatically. However, do not rely too much on this tool because it can miss the latest release from the manufacturer. So, you may still end up trying the next method.

Downloading the Video Card Driver from the Manufacturer’s Website

If the OpenGL error persists after you’ve updated your graphics card driver via the Device Manager, then your next option is to do it manually. You’ll have to go to the manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver version that is compatible with your operating system and processor. Keep in mind that you must be certain that you are downloading the correct version. Otherwise, you will end up with system instability issues.

Using Auslogics Driver Updater’s One-Click Feature

While updating your graphics card driver manually is the sure-fire workaround for the issue, it can be time-consuming and complicated. Once you get to the manufacturer’s website, you will find yourself sifting through heaps and heaps of driver installers. So, save yourself the headache and use a trusted tool like Auslogics Driver Updater.

Once you install this tool, it will recognize your processor and operating system automatically. All you need to do is click a button, and Auslogics Driver Updater will search for the latest drivers for your computer. You also have the freedom to choose which devices to update. However, if you want the easiest way to resolve all driver issues, you can do so in one go. So, while you’ve learned how to get rid of the OpenGL error, at the end of the process, you’ve also improved your computer’s performance and efficiency.

Solution 2: Getting Rid of All Shaders

Shaders allow Minecraft players to set various terrains and settings. In a way, they are mini-mods that let you tweak the game’s texture. For instance, with this feature, you’ll be able to change the look of Minecraft’s surroundings from winter to summer. However, it is worth noting that shaders use up the application’s resources. Moreover, they can interfere with other mod modules.

So, one of the ways to fix OpenGL errors is by disabling all of the shaders one at a time. Doing so will allow you to identify which of them has been causing the issue. We recommend that you disable the most recent one you added to the game, then try working your way down.

1. Use Windows key + R to open Run.
2. Type “%AppData%” without the quotes and hit the Enter key.
3. In the AppData > Roaming folder, navigate to .minecraft > resourcepacks > shaderpacks     . You will find all your added shaders here.
4. Right-click the shader you want to get rid of and click Delete.

Solution 3: Delete Problematic Mods

If shaders aren’t the problem other mods might be. The beauty of Minecraft is its adaptability to user-created mods. You can extend playability and game enjoyment by installing mods that tweak or totally change aspects of the game like the world, characters, colours, clothing and available missions. The list is basically endless.

But this often comes at a cost to the smooth working of the game. Certain mods aren’t adequately tested and can cause glitches when added to Minecraft. Moreover, some mods are incompatible and can      cause problems when installed together. This might be the genesis of the OpenGL error on your computer.

To fix this, you can check all your installed Minecraft mods and delete the unnecessary or problematic ones.

1. Use Windows key + R to open Run.
2. Type “%AppData%” without the quotes and hit the Enter key.
3. In the AppData > Roaming folder, navigate to .minecraft > mods. You will find all your added mods here.
4. Delete all the mods you no longer need and/or those causing issues. Alternatively, you can delete the mod folder to get rid of all mods altogether.

If this doesn’t solve the issue, move on.

Solution 4: Turning Off OpenGL

No matter what version of OpenGL Minecraft uses, it will be enabled by default on your computer. As we’ve mentioned, it is supposed to improve your gaming experience by enhancing graphics settings. Now, if you’re encountering errors with this feature, your best option is to turn it off. To do that, you need to follow the steps below:

1. Open Minecraft, then select Options and click Video Settings.
2. Look for the Advanced OpenGL settings, then disable the feature.
3. Save the changes you’ve made, then restart Minecraft.

After following these steps, check if you can run the game without the OpenGL error. If it persists, move on to the next solution.

Solution 5: Preventing Minecraft from Showing OpenGL Errors

If you’re annoyed by the OpenGL errors, you have the option to keep Minecraft from showing them in the chat. You can disable the feature by following these instructions:

1. Launch Minecraft, then click Options.
2. Now, go to Video Settings and click Others.
3. Select Show GL Errors, then set the feature to OFF.
4. Save the changes you’ve made, then relaunch Minecraft to see if you won’t see the OpenGL error again.

Solution 6: Installing the Latest Version of the Java File Package

Java file packages play a crucial role in the operations of Minecraft and other games. It is worth noting that all mods used for this game are in Java format. Now, if the Java packages are not installed correctly on your PC, they will not initialize correctly, causing OpenGL errors to appear. So, we recommend that you install the latest version of the Java file package to resolve the problem. Here are the steps:

1. Go to your desktop, then right-click This PC.
2. Select Properties from the context menu.
3. Once the System page in Control Panel appears, look for the operating system type section and check if you have a 32-bit or 64-bit version.
4. Download the Java file package for your OS architecture.
5. Save the file package in a secure location, then copy it.
6. Launch File Explorer by pressing Windows Key+E on your keyboard.
7. Navigate to the correct path below:

For 32-bit: C:\Program Files (x86)\Java

For 64-bit: C:\Program Files\Java

8. Paste what you copied recently to this folder. After doing so, copy the name of the folder.
9. Open the Minecraft mod manager, then go to the bottom of the screen and click Edit Profile.
10. Under Java Settings (Advanced), select the Executable option, paste the name of the folder to correct the path.
11. Restart your PC, then open Minecraft to see if the issue has been resolved.

Solution 7: Modifying Minecraft’s Graphics Settings

According to some users, certain graphics settings in Minecraft can cause OpenGL errors. So, we recommend that you tweak the settings by following the instructions below:

1. Open Minecraft, then click Options ->Video Settings.
2. Check the following settings and turn them off one by one:

• VBOs
• Render Region
• Clear Water

After turning off each setting, check if the OpenGL error persists. Doing so will help you identify which of the settings is causing the issue. Now, if you cannot access the video settings, you can modify the options via the configuration file that you can find inside the Minecraft folder.

You should find the options.txt file that stores all the tweakable options in Minecraft. You can open this file and modify the settings. Save your changes, then see if the OpenGL issue is gone.

Solution 8: Tweak the Game MXML File

If you keep facing the OpenGL error in Windows 11, you may need to edit the game’s MXML file. Here’s how to do that:

1. Open the Steam app on your desktop.
2. Look for Minecraft in the installed games section. Then right-click the game and select Properties.
3. Select the LOCAL FILES tab.
4. Click BROWSE LOCAL FILES and navigate to Binaries > Settings.
5. You will now find the MXML file here. Open it. You will see that it contains a bunch of configuration settings.
6. Locate FullScreen and switch its value from true to false.
7. Next, adjust ResolutionWidth and ResolutionHeight to match your device’s screen resolution settings.
8. When you’re done, save the file and exit.

Close Steam, reopen it, and try to play Minecraft.

Solution 9: Update or Rollback Windows

The OpenGL Windows 11/10 error can result from an outdated software. It is imperative to always use the latest version of Windows so you can benefit from the newest official patches and improvements.

On Windows 11:

1. Open Settings with Windows key + I.
2. Select Windows Update from the left navigation pane.
3. Click the Check for Updates button.

On Windows 10:

1. Open Settings with Windows key + I.
2. Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click the Check for Updates button.

Windows will search for and download all available updates.

When that’s done, reboot your system so Windows can install the important updates.

On the other hand, it’s possible that the recent installed update is responsible for the OpenGL issue you’re facing. If your Minecraft gameplay starts getting interrupted after you updated the system, you may need to uninstall the update or roll back your system.

How to Uninstall Updates

On Windows 11

• Navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Update History > Uninstall Updates. Right-click the relevant update and select Uninstall.

On Windows 10

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View Update History > Uninstall Updates. Right-click the relevant update and select Uninstall.

You can also roll back the system status to an earlier point in time before the problem started happening. Assuming you have system restore already enabled and restore points stored, here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Start menu and type “restore”.
2. Click Open under “Create a restore point”.

3. The System Properties window will open to the System Protection tab.
4. Click the System Restore button under System Restore.
5. The System Restore wizard will open. Click Next.
6. Choose a fitting restore point and click Next.

Follow the onscreen instructions to finish up.

Solution 10: Reinstalling Minecraft

If you’ve tried all the solutions above yet none of them got rid of the OpenGL error, then your last resort is to reinstall Minecraft. However, if you choose this option, you will have to let go of your user data—especially if you do not have it backed up. To proceed, follow the steps below:

1. On your keyboard, press Windows Key+R to launch the Run dialog box.
2. Inside the Run dialog box, type “appwiz.cpl” (no quotes), then hit Enter.
3. Look for Minecraft on the list, then right-click it.
4. Select Uninstall.

After removing Minecraft from your computer, download the game again and reinstall it.

Are there other Minecraft topics you would like us to discuss?

Share them in the comments below, and we’ll feature them on our future posts!