ArcMap crash related to NVIDIA GPU drivers

Description

Around January 18, 2024, Esri Support Services began receiving reports of ArcMap crashing upon launch, though the application had not been updated.

Cause

The cause of the issue seems to be a problem with certain NVIDIA GPU drivers for multiple GPU models in the RTX and Quadro series. 

Solution or Workaround

Disclaimer:
This issue is continuing to be worked on by NVIDIA and this post will be updated as more information becomes available. 

It is recommended that users upgrade their NVIDIA drivers to R550 U1/551.23. This should resolve the crash. If you install this driver and the crash continues, please contact Esri Support Services and NVIDIA to report the problem.

If the crash is still occurring, another option to try is to disable hardware acceleration. This option is presented when the application is first opened after installation, and is typically disabled in the app. Since this issue causes a crash upon software launch, you may disable this setting in the registry, using the following steps.

Warning:   
The instructions below include making changes to essential parts of your operating system. It is recommended that you backup your operating system and files, including the registry, before proceeding. Consult a qualified computer systems professional, if necessary.
Esri cannot guarantee results from incorrect modifications while following these instructions. Therefore, use caution and proceed at your own risk.

1. Within the Windows Registry Editor, navigate to:

HKEY_Current_User\Software\Esri\Desktop10.8\Display

2. Delete the value for the DWORD property “EnableHardwareAcceleratedBlending”.
3. Restart ArcMap.