If your Windows 10 screen has turned grey, don’t worry—there are several solutions you can try to fix it. This guide will walk you through easy steps to restore your screen back to normal. You’ll learn how to troubleshoot the problem, check for software issues, and tweak some settings to get everything working again.
How to Fix Grey Screen on Windows 10
This section will cover the steps to troubleshoot and resolve the grey screen issue on Windows 10. We’ll go through a few basic steps to identify the root cause and then fix it.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Simply restart your computer to see if the problem persists.
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix many issues, including a grey screen. This allows Windows to reload all its processes, potentially solving minor software glitches.
Step 2: Check for Software Updates
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
Make sure your computer is up to date. Sometimes, Microsoft releases patches and updates that could resolve your issue.
Step 3: Boot in Safe Mode
Press and hold the Shift key while selecting Restart, then choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. Select F4 to boot into Safe Mode.
Booting in Safe Mode loads only essential drivers and can help identify if third-party software is causing the grey screen.
Step 4: Roll Back Graphics Drivers
Open Device Manager, expand Display adapters, right-click your graphics card, and choose Properties. Go to the Driver tab and select Roll Back Driver.
Sometimes, an update to your graphics driver can cause issues. Rolling it back can restore your computer to a previously working state.
Step 5: Disable Fast Startup
Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable. Uncheck Turn on fast startup.
Fast Startup can cause issues on certain systems, leading to a grey screen. Disabling it can help resolve the issue.
After completing these steps, your screen should return to normal. If the problem persists, you might need to consult a professional.
Tips for How to Fix Grey Screen on Windows 10
- Always Backup Your Data: Before making any major changes, ensure you have a backup of important files.
- Stay Updated: Keeping Windows and your drivers updated can prevent many issues.
- Use Reliable Antivirus Software: Some grey screens are caused by malware. Regular scans can keep your system clean.
- Check Hardware Connections: Loose or faulty cables can sometimes cause display issues.
- Run Diagnostics Tools: Windows has built-in tools like the System File Checker that can help resolve system issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a grey screen on Windows 10?
A grey screen can be caused by software conflicts, outdated drivers, or hardware issues.
How do I know if my graphics driver is the problem?
Booting into Safe Mode can help determine if your graphics driver is causing the issue. If the grey screen disappears in Safe Mode, it’s likely a driver problem.
Can malware cause a grey screen?
Yes, certain types of malware can cause display issues, including grey screens. Running an antivirus scan can help rule this out.
Is it safe to disable Fast Startup?
Yes, but it may make your computer take slightly longer to boot. However, it can resolve certain issues like a grey screen.
What if the grey screen persists after following all steps?
If the issue continues, it’s best to consult a professional for further diagnosis.
Summary
- Restart your computer.
- Check for software updates.
- Boot in Safe Mode.
- Roll back graphics drivers.
- Disable Fast Startup.
Conclusion
Fixing a grey screen on Windows 10 might seem daunting, but with these steps, it’s totally manageable. Restarting your computer, checking for updates, and booting into Safe Mode can often resolve the problem. Rolling back graphics drivers and disabling Fast Startup are also effective solutions.
If these steps don’t work, you may need to seek professional help, but don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many people face this issue and find that following these steps solves their problem. Always remember to keep your system updated and run regular antivirus scans to prevent future issues.
By following this guide, you should be well on your way to fixing that annoying grey screen and getting back to your daily tasks. If you’re still having trouble, consider reaching out to a tech community or forum for more specific advice. Good luck!
Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.
He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.