Graphics driver update state reference

Candidate and selection

A graphics update starts as a package record with adapter identifiers, hardware scope, architecture, version, and trust metadata. Matching and ranking identify a candidate under package rules. A candidate or selected package is not yet proof of a loaded component or active display path.

Staging and activation

Package staging establishes files and metadata in a managed arrangement. Activation connects runtime graphics components to the adapter and display subsystem. These transitions can be observed separately because package management and graphics runtime have different owners.

Display paths can be republished

A graphics component can enumerate monitors, modes, connectors, and capabilities as part of its runtime relationship. Those display records can change independently of package version, and a package transition can leave a monitor identity or mode record stable.

State language is deliberately narrow

Available, matched, selected, staged, active, detected, and presented describe different boundaries. A state reference uses those terms to explain records, not to infer a cause, promise a visual result, or prescribe an action.

Questions and answers