Fixing a black screen in Windows 10 can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack, but it doesn’t have to be. By following a series of simple steps, you can troubleshoot and fix the black screen issue efficiently. Let’s dive in and get your screen back to normal.
How to Fix Black Screen in Windows 10
A black screen on Windows 10 can happen for various reasons, like a faulty update, a driver issue, or hardware problems. The following steps will guide you through diagnosing and resolving the issue.
Step 1: Check for Loose Connections
Make sure all cables between your monitor and computer are securely connected.
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the right one. Check all your cables to ensure they are properly connected. This includes power cables and display cables (HDMI, VGA, etc.) to make sure nothing has come loose.
Step 2: Restart Your Computer
Hold down the power button for 10 seconds to turn off your computer, then press it again to restart.
Restarting your computer can resolve many temporary issues. By holding down the power button, you ensure that the computer fully shuts down, which can help clear any glitches.
Step 3: Boot into Safe Mode
Restart your computer and press F8 or Shift + F8 before Windows loads, then select Safe Mode.
Booting into Safe Mode allows Windows to start with only the essential drivers and settings. This can help you identify if a third-party software or driver is causing the problem.
Step 4: Update or Roll Back Graphics Drivers
In Safe Mode, go to Device Manager, find your display adapters, and either update or roll back the driver.
Updating your graphics driver ensures you have the latest patches and fixes. Conversely, rolling back the driver can resolve issues if a recent update caused the black screen.
Step 5: Disable Fast Startup
Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable, then uncheck "Turn on fast startup."
Fast Startup can sometimes cause issues with hardware and drivers. Disabling it ensures that Windows performs a full shutdown and start-up, which can resolve the black screen issue.
Step 6: Check for Windows Updates
In Safe Mode, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and check for updates.
Updating Windows can install patches and fixes that might resolve the black screen problem. Make sure your system is up-to-date to avoid such issues.
Once you’ve completed the above steps, your computer should restart without displaying the black screen. If the issue persists, you might need to consider hardware problems or consult professional help.
Tips for Fixing Black Screen Windows 10
- Keep all your drivers up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.
- Regularly check for Windows updates to maintain system stability.
- Avoid installing untrusted software that might cause system conflicts.
- Regularly back up your data to avoid loss during troubleshooting.
- Run regular antivirus scans to keep your system clean and secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Windows 10 screen go black?
This can happen due to various reasons including driver issues, software conflicts, or hardware problems.
How do I fix a black screen after login?
Try booting into Safe Mode and updating or rolling back your graphics drivers.
Can a virus cause a black screen?
Yes, a virus can interfere with system files and cause a black screen.
Is it safe to disable Fast Startup?
Yes, disabling Fast Startup can help resolve certain boot issues without causing harm to your system.
What if the black screen happens randomly?
Random black screens might indicate a hardware problem, and you should check your cables and hardware components.
Summary of Steps to Fix Black Screen Windows 10
- Check for loose connections.
- Restart your computer.
- Boot into Safe Mode.
- Update or roll back graphics drivers.
- Disable Fast Startup.
- Check for Windows updates.
Conclusion
Fixing a black screen in Windows 10 isn’t as daunting as it might seem. By following these steps, you can identify and resolve the issue without breaking a sweat. Remember to keep your system updated and perform regular maintenance checks to avoid such problems in the future.
If these steps don’t resolve your issue, it might be time to seek professional help or check for potential hardware failures. In the meantime, keep exploring more tips and tricks to keep your Windows 10 running smoothly. Happy troubleshooting!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.