How to Fix Black Screen Issues in Windows 10

When a Windows 10 system displays a black screen, common culprits include graphics driver issues, miscommunications after wake-up, recent Windows 10 updates, malfunctioning Windows Explorer, or faulty display connections.

Common Causes

• Graphics driver compatibility or corruption.
• Miscommunication between graphics subsystem and display after wake-up.
• Compatibility issues post Windows 10 updates.
• Windows Explorer malfunction.
• Faulty display connections.

Basic Checks

Before diving deeper, try these quick solutions. A simple reboot might work wonders, achievable by holding down the power button for ten seconds. For PCs, using the combination of the Windows logo key along with Ctrl + Shift + B can help wake up the screen. If you suspect Windows Explorer is the problem, use either Ctrl + Alt + Delete or Ctrl + Shift + Esc to bring up the Task Manager and restart Windows.

Conducting a physical inspection is beneficial. Check all display connections first. If unsure, test with a different screen or an external GPU. Sometimes, the problem arises from the graphics component, which might require repair or replacement.

• Ensure video signal cables are properly connected.
• Confirm the monitor is powered on.
• If available, test with different video ports or use the integrated graphics card.
• On laptops, adjust display brightness using the keyboard function keys.

Restarting Graphics Drivers

• Use Windows Key + Ctrl + Shift + B to prompt Windows 10 to restart its graphics drivers.

Monitor Troubleshooting

• Power cycle the monitor.
• Check its power LED and ensure the power cable and outlet function properly.

Initial System Checks

• Power cycle your computer to address post-update issues.
• Adjust brightness to ensure it’s not set too low.
• Test different video outputs, or use another display or HDMI cable to identify any display defects.

Software Related Solutions

If the problem is software-related, consider booting in safe mode. In this mode, you can check the state of your display drivers in the Device Manager or even remove unnecessary third-party applications that might be causing the issue. A system restore is another powerful tool available in safe mode; this reverts your system to a previous, functioning state. If recent updates seem problematic, uninstall them. Additionally, accessing the BIOS/UEFI and selecting default settings can also resolve software-induced display issues.

Display Driver Issues:

• Boot in safe mode.
• Navigate to Device Manager → Display adapters. Right-click your graphics card, select Properties → Driver.
• Choose “Roll Back Driver” or consider the Update, Disable, or Uninstall options.

Third-Party Applications:

• Boot in safe mode and remove unnecessary third-party apps.

System Restore:

• Access in safe mode, and revert to a previous stable state.

BIOS/UEFI Utility:

• Boot into BIOS/UEFI using F2 or Delete. Load Defaults or Optimized Defaults.

Startup Applications:

• Boot in safe mode, disable unnecessary apps.

Windows Update Rollback:

• Boot in safe mode, uninstall recent updates from Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → View update history.

Further Diagnostic Steps

• Disable Fast Startup: Some users have reported the black screen issue to be linked to the fast startup feature, especially after hardware changes. Disabling it might help.
• External Checks: Based on warranty and costs, repair or replace defective graphics hardware.

Preventative Measures:

• Maintain your hardware regularly.
• Update drivers as necessary.
• Run periodic antivirus scans for safety.

Following these steps in sequence can help users troubleshoot their black screen issues systematically.

Additional Troubleshooting Steps

If basic measures are unsuccessful, delve deeper. For situations where the cursor is visible but the desktop isn’t, consider restarting Windows Explorer. Booting in Safe Mode is another method to identify problems, especially by disabling startup items sequentially.

• High Contrast Mode: Disable in safe mode if it’s the cause.
• RunOnce Process: Halt this in Windows 10 if causing the black screen.
• Uninstall Recent Updates: Boot in safe mode and remove updates that might be causing issues.
• Uninstall Security Software: Some software can cause black screens. Remove problematic apps in safe mode.
• New Windows 10 Account: Test with a new account to diagnose issues.
• Manual Recovery Environment Access: Can be used if a black screen blocks the Settings app.
• Roll Back Windows 10 Version: If an upgrade is problematic, consider reverting.
• Uninstall Updates: If causing issues, remove them in the Recovery Environment.

FAQ

Disclamer

Please note: This information aims to be helpful and accurate, but we always encourage double-checking and exploring further insights for optimal results. For specialized advice tailored to your situation, consulting a professional is always a great idea. While we strive for accuracy, technology and software are constantly evolving. As such, features and methods may change over time.