The black screen on your Windows device can be perplexing, particularly since it lacks an error code or message that can provide immediate insight into the underlying issue. Such occurrences often stem from graphics driver problems, compatibility conflicts with recent feature updates, or hardware issues related to video adapters, displays, or connectivity. In this article, I will show you how to Fix Black Screen Issues on Windows 11/10. Please see How to Resolve Microsoft RDP Connection Black Screen, How to start HyperV VMs in safe mode, and how to Enable or Disable Screen Saver: Windows Methods.
Steps to fix Black Screen Issues on Windows 11/10
When faced with a black screen, it’s imperative to consider both hardware and software aspects. The following guidelines provide the steps to troubleshoot and resolve the most prevalent black screen issues on both Windows.
Display Detection Issue
Sometimes, a black screen occurs when Windows loses connection with the display. Please see How to fix the external display not working on Windows 11. Follow the steps below to fix the issue with display detection:
Connect to a Monitor: If you have access to a monitor, connect the computer to a monitor to check if the system displays correctly.
Monitor Power: Check if the monitor is powered on and ensure the display cable is securely connected to both the computer and monitor.
Display Mode: If the system’s display is visible on the monitor, press “Windows key + P” to access the “Project” menu. If the display mode is set to “Second screen only,” change it to “Extend” or “Duplicate.”
Alternatively, you can use the “Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + B” keyboard shortcut to restart the video driver and reestablish connection with the monitor.
Test with Different Monitor: If the issue persists, try a different monitor or cable to isolate the problem. Please see Enhanced Multi-Monitor Experience with Windows 11.
Resolving Black Screen Issues in Safe Mode
To access the Advanced Startup settings, begin by powering on the computer. Once the Windows logo appears, press the power button for 10 seconds to shut down the computer.
Repeat the power-off action two additional times. After the third interruption, Windows will initiate the Automatic Repair environment, leading to the Advanced Startup option.
Also, see How to disable Lock Screen on Windows 10, How to disable automatic screen lock in Ubuntu Linux, and how to Convert Google Forms Into Microsoft Forms.
Advanced Startup via Bootable Media
Alternatively, a bootable USB flash drive with Windows 11/10 can offer access to advanced settings through these steps. Create a Windows 10 or 11 bootable USB with UEFI support.
Boot the computer via a USB flash drive and on the following page click “Next.”
Click the “Repair your computer” option at the bottom-left corner.
Step to Boot into safe mode
From the Advanced Startup settings, select “Troubleshoot.”
On the next page, select “Advanced options.”
Within the Advanced options page, select “Startup Settings.”
Click the Restart button.
On the “Startup Settings” page, choose the “Enable Safe Mode with Networking” option by pressing the 5 key or F5.
Once the computer has booted into safe mode, you can utilize one of various troubleshooting steps discussed below to address the black screen issue.
Uninstall Recent Windows Updates
In some cases, the issue may be caused by recent Windows updates. Uninstalling these updates can potentially resolve the problem:
Type “Control Panel” in the search box and open it.
Click on “Programs” in the control panel”
Under “Programs,” click “View Installed Updates.
Locate the latest Windows updates and click “Uninstall” and restart the system.
Create a New Windows Account Using Command Prompt
To create a fresh account in safe mode on Windows 11/10, adhere to these steps:
Press the Windows key to open the Start menu, search for command prompt and run as administrator.
Type the following command to setup a new account and press Enter:
net user ACCOUNT-NAME /add Replace “ACCOUNT-NAME” in the command with the preferred name for the account you wish to create. For instance, if you want to name the account “testuser,” the command should be:
net user testuser /addType the following command to modify the account type to “Administrator,” and press Enter:
net localgroup administrators testuser /addRestart the computer and log in using the recently generated user account.
If the black screen no longer appears after rebooting, the issue might be associated with your previous user account.
Fix Black Screen Issues Using System Restore
System Restore reverses system changes causing the black screen, preserving files but possibly affecting settings, apps, and updates based on your current setup. (Note: System Restore requires prior setup and configuration.) Please see Restore Point Creation in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
From the Advanced Startup settings, select “Troubleshoot.”
On the next page, select “Advanced options.”
Within the Advanced options page, select “System Restore.”
Follow subsequent prompts to select a suitable restore point.
Investigate the apps impacted by the restoration.
Click the “Finish” button to begin the system restore.
These steps should return your system to an earlier, functional state without the black screen issue.
Rolling Back to a Previous Update
If a black screen occurs post-upgrade, reverting to a previous Windows 11/10 version might offer temporary relief until a permanent resolution surfaces through system or driver updates. Please see How to fix Windows Update Error Code 0xC1900101 – 0x30018 on Windows 10/11.
Under “Choose an option,” select “Troubleshoot.”
On the next page, select “Advanced options.”
Click “Uninstall Update.”
Select the “Uninstall latest feature update” option.
Sign in and confirm the rollback.
Steering clear of updates until Microsoft provides a stable solution is recommended if reverting to a prior version resolves the problem.
Resolving Installation-Related Black Screen Issues
During Windows 11/10 installation, a black screen can signify background processes still at work. If progress appears stalled after an extended period (more than six hours), manual power-off may be necessary. Hold the power button for five to ten seconds to force shutdown. On laptops, removing the battery is also advised. Reconnect only essential peripherals upon restarting.
If the installation resumes after restart, completion is imminent. If the system rolls back to the previous setup, attempt installation again, this time using a bootable USB flash drive for a fresh approach. Please see Create a Windows 10 or 11 bootable USB with UEFI support.
Conclusion
Resolving black screen issues on Windows 11/10 requires a systematic approach. Whether diagnosing connection problems, addressing desktop-accessible black screens, or navigating safe mode for troubleshooting, these strategies offer effective pathways to resolving the issue and restoring normal functionality.
By using the advanced startup settings, System Restore, or version rollback, you can regain control of your computer display.
I hope you found this blog post helpful on how to Fix Black Screen Issues on Windows 11/10. Please let me know in the comment section if you have any questions.