Introduction
MSI Afterburner is a widely recognized and reputable tool for overclocking graphics cards and monitoring GPU performance. Developed by MSI, this software is commonly utilized by gamers and enthusiasts to optimize the performance of their graphics cards. While MSI Afterburner is generally considered safe to use, there are several important safety considerations that users should be aware of. This article aims to address these concerns and provide guidance on how to use the software responsibly.
Is MSI Afterburner Safe?
Yes, MSI Afterburner is generally considered safe to use. It is a widely recognized and trusted tool for enthusiasts looking to tweak and enhance the performance of their graphics cards. However, there are a few important points to consider to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the software.
1. Source
Always download MSI Afterburner from the official MSI website or trusted sources to avoid malware. Using a legitimate and verified source ensures that the software is free from malicious components. This step is crucial in preventing potential security risks.
2. Overclocking Risks
While the software itself is safe, overclocking your GPU can lead to instability, overheating, and potential damage if not done carefully. Overclocking involves increasing the clock speeds of the GPU, core voltage, and memory clock, which can cause the card to run hotter and potentially shut down to prevent damage. Always monitor temperatures and performance when making changes to the settings.
3. Compatibility
Ensure that your graphics card is supported by the version of MSI Afterburner you are using. Compatibility issues can lead to unreliable performance and potential software crashes. Checking the compatibility list on the official MSI website can help prevent such issues.
Safety Considerations
MSI Afterburner can be a powerful tool for both overclocking and monitoring GPU performance. However, there are settings that can potentially harm your PC. These include core voltage, power target, GPU clocks, and memory clocks. Increasing the voltage can make the card run hotter, leading to potential damage from overheating. Setting the GPU and memory clocks too high can result in artifacts on the screen or unstable computer operation. It is crucial to never check the "apply overclocking on startup" option until you have tested the settings for a few days. Improper settings can result in a non-booting Windows, rendering your system unusable.
It is recommended to increase settings in small steps to ensure stability and prevent damage. Overclocking may also reduce the life expectancy of your graphics card. Therefore, if you are not confident in your ability to overclock, it is best to avoid it or use MSI Afterburner solely for monitoring purposes.
For Monitoring Only
MSI Afterburner can still be a safe tool even if you do not plan to overclock your GPU. It provides valuable information for monitoring the performance and health of your graphics card. For example, I use it as an information source for the Riva Tuner Statistics Server to get real-time data about my system's performance while gaming. The overlay display (OSD) in games like Metro Exodus provides additional useful data from hardware monitoring tools like HWInfo.
Comparison to Equivalent Software
For those who do wish to overclock, MSI Afterburner is considered superior to the software that EVGA makes for their graphics cards. While there are alternatives, Afterburner offers superior features and a more robust user interface. However, for users who only want to monitor GPU performance without overclocking, afterburner still provides a valuable tool.
It is generally recommended to use MSI Afterburner with caution and knowledge. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, users can ensure that they use the software responsibly and safely, benefiting from its features without putting their systems at risk.