Screen flickering in Windows 10 can be frustrating, but fixing it is straightforward. The flickering typically stems from incompatible apps or outdated display drivers. Follow these steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue quickly.
How to Fix Screen Flickering Windows 10
Let’s dive into the steps to fix screen flickering in Windows 10. This process will help you identify whether the flickering is caused by an app or a driver.
Step 1: Check Task Manager
First, open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
If the Task Manager flickers, the issue is likely with your display driver. If it doesn’t flicker, an app is causing the problem.
Step 2: Update Display Drivers
If the Task Manager flickers, update your display drivers.
Open Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Device Manager. Expand Display Adapters, right-click your adapter, and select Update driver.
Step 3: Uninstall Problematic Applications
If the Task Manager doesn’t flicker, identify and uninstall the problematic app.
Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Find and uninstall any recently installed apps or those known to cause issues, like Norton Antivirus or iCloud.
Step 4: Boot in Safe Mode
If you’re unsure which app is causing the issue, try booting in Safe Mode.
Restart your computer, press F4 or F8 during startup, and choose Safe Mode. Check if the flickering persists. If it stops, the issue is likely with an app or service that doesn’t run in Safe Mode.
Step 5: Restore System to a Previous Point
If all else fails, restore your system to an earlier point before the flickering started.
Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point.
After completing these steps, your screen should stop flickering, and your computer will run smoothly again.
Tips to Fix Screen Flickering Windows 10
- Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly update your display drivers to avoid compatibility issues.
- Avoid Problematic Apps: Be cautious when installing apps known to cause flickering.
- Use Safe Mode: Safe Mode can help identify if the issue is with an app or driver.
- Check for Malware: Ensure your system is free from malware that could be causing the flickering.
- Run Windows Updates: Install the latest Windows updates for optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my screen flickering in Windows 10?
Screen flickering in Windows 10 is often due to incompatible apps or outdated display drivers.
How do I know if an app is causing the flickering?
Open Task Manager. If it doesn’t flicker, an app is likely the problem.
How can I update my display drivers?
Open Device Manager, expand Display Adapters, right-click your adapter, and select Update driver.
What if updating drivers doesn’t help?
Uninstall any recently installed or known problematic apps from Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
Can Safe Mode help identify the issue?
Yes, if the flickering stops in Safe Mode, it is likely caused by an app or service that doesn’t run in Safe Mode.
Summary
- Check Task Manager.
- Update display drivers.
- Uninstall problematic applications.
- Boot in Safe Mode.
- Restore system to a previous point.
Conclusion
Fixing screen flickering in Windows 10 doesn’t have to be a headache. By following these steps—checking Task Manager, updating drivers, uninstalling problematic apps, booting in Safe Mode, and restoring your system—you can resolve the issue efficiently. Remember, keeping your system updated and free of troublesome apps is key to preventing this problem in the future. If you need further assistance, consider reaching out to Microsoft’s support or visiting their community forums. Happy computing!
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.