How to Fix a Black Screen Problem in Windows 10? (2023)

 How to Fix a Black Screen Problem in Windows 10

If you use Windows 10, you may have encountered the frustrating “black screen problem”. This problem manifests as a black screen with no visible display or cursor, making accessing your files and applications difficult. However, don’t worry! this article we will walk you through various fixes for Windows 10’s Black screen issue so you can get in the driver’s seat once again of your machine.

Introduction

The black screen problem in Windows 10 can occur due to various reasons, such as faulty graphics drivers, incompatible software, or system errors. It often leaves users frustrated and unable to use their computers normally. Notwithstanding, by following the troubleshooting strategies referenced in this article, you can determine the issue and make your system ready once more.

Causes of black screen problem 

Various factors can cause the black screen problem on Windows 10. Here are some common causes:

Graphics driver issues:

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can result in a black screen. This can occur after a Windows update or when installing new software that conflicts with the graphics driver.

Display settings: 

Incorrect display settings or resolution settings can lead to a black screen. This can happen if the settings are set beyond what the monitor or graphics card can support.

Hardware problems: 

Faulty hardware components such as a faulty graphics card, loose cables, or a damaged monitor can cause a black screen. In some cases, the System hardware needs to be repaired or need to be replaced.

Malware or viruses: 

Malicious software can cause system instability and result in a black screen. It’s essential to have reliable antivirus software installed and regularly updated to prevent such issues.

System file corruption:

Critical system files may become corrupted, causing the operating system to malfunction and display a black screen. This might happen as a result of unexpected power interruptions, faulty shutdowns, or malware infections.

Windows update issues: 

Occasionally, Windows updates can cause conflicts with certain hardware or software, leading to a black screen. This can be resolved by applying the latest updates or rolling back problematic updates.

Third-party software conflicts: 

Incompatible or poorly coded third-party software can interfere with the normal functioning of Windows and result in a black screen. Uninstalling or updating such software may resolve the issue.

Overheating:  

The system may freeze or display a black screen if one or more computer components, especially the graphics card, overheat. Ensuring proper ventilation and cleaning dust from the components can help prevent overheating.

Power settings: 

Power management settings, such as screen timeout or sleep mode, can sometimes cause a black screen if they are misconfigured. Adjusting these settings can resolve the issue.

Hardware compatibility issues: 

With Windows 10 some hardware components may not be fully compatible, leading to a black screen. Checking for updated drivers or firmware for the hardware can help resolve compatibility issues.

Solutions to the black screen problem

1. Check External Connections:

Sometimes, the black screen problem may be caused by loose or faulty connections between your computer and external devices, such as monitors or projectors. Start by checking all the cables and connections to ensure they are securely plugged in. If you are using a desktop computer system, then try to connect your monitor to a different port or use a different cable. For laptops, disconnect any external devices and check if the black screen issue persists.

2. Boot into Safe Mode:

Booting your computer into Safe Mode can help diagnose and resolve the black screen problem. To do this, follow these steps:

1.  Restart your computer.

2. When the Windows logo appears, press and hold the Shift key.

3. Select “Troubleshoot” from the recovery options screen.

4. In the Advanced options menu, choose “Startup Settings.”

5. Click on “Restart.“

6. After the restart, you will see a list of startup settings. Press F5 or 5 to select
“Enable Safe Mode with Networking.“

Once you’re in Safe Mode, you can try updating your graphics drivers or uninstalling any recently installed software that might be causing conflicts.

3. Update Graphics Drivers:

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can often lead to the black screen problem. To update your graphics drivers, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.“

2. Expand the “Display adapters” category.

3. Right-click on your graphics card and select “Update driver.”

4. Choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software.

5. Windows will search for the latest drivers and install them. Follow any on-screen
instructions if prompted.

After the update the driver is complete, Now restart your computer and check black screen issue is resolved or not.

4. Disable Fast Startup:

Fast Startup is a feature in Windows 10 that allows for quicker boot times. However, it can sometimes cause conflicts and result in the black screen problem. Disabling Fast Startup may help resolve the issue. Here’s how:

1.  Press the Windows key + X and select “Power Options.“

2. Click on “Choose what the power buttons do” from the left panel.

3. Click on “Change settings that are currently unavailable.“

4. Scroll down to the “Shutdown settings” section.

5. Uncheck the box that says “Turn on fast startup (recommended).“

6.  Click on “Save changes.” Restart your computer and see if the black screen problem persists.

5. Run System File Checker

System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in Windows tool that scans for and repairs corrupted system files. Running the SFC utility might help fix the black screen issue. Follow these steps:

1.  Press the Windows key + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin).”

2.  Type the command “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.

3.  Wait for the scan to complete and let the system repair any detected issues.

Once finished the process is done, restart your computer and check if the black screen problem is resolved.

6. Perform a System Restore:

If the black screen problem started recently after a system change or update, performing a system restore can help revert your computer back to a previous working state. Here’s how to do it:

1. Press the Windows key + X and select “System.”

2. Click on “System Protection” from the left panel.

3. Click on “System Restore.”

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point and initiate the process.

Note that system restores will not affect your personal files but may uninstall recently installed applications. After completing the restore system, check if the black screen issue has been resolved.

7. Reset Windows 10

If none of the previous methods has resolved the black screen problem, you can try resetting Windows 10. This option allows this option you to reinstall the operating system while keeping your personal files intact. Here’s how:

1.  Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.

2.  Click on “Update & Security.”

3.  Select “Recovery” from the left panel.

4.  Under the “Reset this PC” section, click on “Get started.“

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose an appropriate reset option.

Note that Windows 10 resetting will remove all installed applications, so make sure to back up any important data before proceeding.

Conclusion

In Windows 10 managing a black screen issue can be baffling, yet with the strategies outlined in this article, you ought to have the option to determine the issue and recapture control of your PC. Remember to check external connections, update graphics drivers, disable Fast Startup, run the System File Checker, perform a system restore, and consider resetting Windows 10 as a last resort. By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and fix the black screen problem efficiently.

Fix a Black Screen Problem in Windows 10 FAQs