How to Use DLSS Swapper: A Complete Guide

NVIDIA's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology has revolutionized PC gaming performance, but not all games ship with the latest version of the DLSS DLL file. This is where DLSS Swapper comes in handy. In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to use DLSS Swapper to upgrade your games and get the best possible image quality and performance.

Why Use DLSS Swapper?

Newer versions of DLSS often bring significant improvements, such as reduced ghosting, better stability, and sharper images. However, game developers don't always update their games with the latest DLLs immediately. DLSS Swapper allows you to:

  • Upgrade DLSS versions in your installed games safely.
  • Fix visual artifacts like ghosting or shimmering found in older DLSS versions.
  • Manage DLSS files across Steam, Epic Games, GOG, and other launchers.

Note: While generally safe for single-player titles, please be careful with online multiplayer games with anti-cheat. Check our guide on DLSS Swapper safety for Fortnite for more details.

Step 1: Download and Install DLSS Swapper

First, you need to have the tool installed on your PC. You can download the latest version from our homepage.

Once downloaded, run the installer or extract the portable version and launch DLSS.Swapper.exe.

Step 2: Scan Your Game Library

When you first launch DLSS Swapper, it will automatically attempt to scan your computer for supported games. It checks default library locations for Steam, Epic Games, GOG, Ubisoft Connect, and Xbox App.

If your games are not showing up:

  1. Click on the Settings icon (gear icon).
  2. Look for the Library section.
  3. You can manually add library folders if your games are installed in custom locations.
  4. Return to the Games tab to see your populated list.

Step 3: Download DLSS Versions

Before you can swap, you need to download the DLSS versions you want to use. DLSS Swapper makes this easy by fetching them directly from NVIDIA's repository (via TechPowerUp or similar sources).

  1. Go to the Library or DLSS tab in the application sidebar.
  2. You will see a list of available DLSS versions (e.g., 2.5.1, 3.1.1, 3.5.0).
  3. Click the download icon next to the version you want. We recommend trying the latest version, or version 2.5.1 which is often cited as excellent for older games due to less sharpening artifacts.

Step 4: Swap the DLSS File

Now for the main event: updating your game.

  1. Go back to the Games tab.
  2. Click on the game you want to update.
  3. You will see the Current DLSS Version used by the game.
  4. Select the new version you downloaded from the dropdown or list.
  5. Click the Swap button.

That's it! The tool will automatically back up the original file and replace it with the new one.

Step 5: Verify In-Game

Launch your game and play. You should notice the changes immediately, especially if you upgraded from a much older version (like 2.1 or 2.2) to a modern one (like 2.5+ or 3.x). If you encounter any issues, you can easily use DLSS Swapper to revert to the original version or try a different one.

Pro Tip

DLSS 3 Frame Generation: Note that swapping the main DLSS file (nvngx_dlss.dll) does not enable Frame Generation (DLSS 3) on cards that don't support it, nor does it update the Frame Generation DLL (nvngx_dlssg.dll). DLSS Swapper primarily handles the Super Resolution component.

Conclusion

Using DLSS Swapper is the safest and most convenient way to keep your games looking their best. By following this guide on how to use DLSS Swapper, you can ensure you're always getting the premium visual experience your graphics card is capable of.