NVIDIA GPU detected but not usable (Code 43 sometimes, not showing in Task Manager)

Hello everyone ,

I’m having a really confusing issue with my laptop GPU (RTX 3050), and I’m not sure if it’s a driver problem or hardware problem.

Here’s exactly what’s happening:

•	The NVIDIA GPU appears in Device Manager

•	Sometimes it shows Code 43, sometimes no error

•	When Code 43 appears, the cursor disappears and system becomes unstable

•	If I uninstall the NVIDIA driver and restart:

•	Cursor comes back

•	NVIDIA appears again without error

BUT:

•	NVIDIA does NOT show in Task Manager (Performance tab)

•	NVIDIA Control Panel / app says no driver installed

•	Dell SupportAssist only shows Intel GPU

•	In Windows Graphics settings → both power saving and high performance show Intel only

So basically:

👉 The GPU is detected, but Windows is not actually using it

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Important notes:

•	Intel GPU works perfectly (no crashes, no cursor issues)

•	Problem only happens when NVIDIA is enabled

•	Windows 10 is old and not activated

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What I want to know:

1.	Does this look like a driver/Windows issue or possible GPU hardware failure?