Troubleshooting Black Screen Issues on Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of dealing with frustrating black screens on your Windows 10 computer? The blank slate can be both disorienting and infuriating, especially when accompanied by a stubborn cursor that refuses to disappear. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to resolve this issue without resorting to drastic measures like factory resetting.

Before diving into the more advanced solutions, let's start with some basic yet often overlooked troubleshooting steps:

1. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, simply restarting your computer can magically fix any temporary software or driver-related issues causing the black screen. Press and hold down the power button for about 10 seconds to force a shutdown, then press it again until you hear the familiar startup sound.

2. Check for Updates

Ensure that both Windows itself and all installed drivers are up-to-date, as outdated components can sometimes lead to compatibility problems resulting in black screens. To do this:

- Click on Start > Settings > System & Security > Windows Update.

- If updates are available, click 'Check now' and follow the prompts to download and install them.

3. Run an SFC (System File Checker) Scan

Corrupted system files can cause a variety of issues including black screens with cursors. To run an SFC scan:

- Press Win + X on your keyboard.

- Select Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell from the context menu.

- Type 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter.

4. Run a DISM (Deployment Image Servicing & Management) Scan

Similar to the SFC scan, running a DISM scan can help identify and repair any corrupted system files causing black screens:

- Press Win + X on your keyboard.

- Select Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell from the context menu.

- Type 'dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth' and press Enter.

5. Check for Malware

Malicious software like viruses, spyware, or adware can sometimes cause black screen issues. To scan your computer with anti-virus software:

- Open your security program (e.g., Norton Antivirus) from the Start menu.

- Run a full system scan using all available options.

If none of these basic troubleshooting steps resolve the issue, it's likely time to dig deeper into more advanced solutions:

6. Update Graphics Card Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics card drivers can sometimes cause black screen problems. To update your graphic drivers:

- Right-click on Start and select Device Manager.

- Under 'Display Adapters,' right-click on your dedicated/Integrated Graphics device (depending on whether you have a discrete or integrated GPU).

- Select Update driver > Search automatically for updates.

7. Reset Windows

If all else fails, it may be necessary to reset your computer back to its original factory settings. Note that this will erase all installed applications, personal files, and settings:

- Press Win + X on the keyboard.

- Click on 'Settings' from the context menu.

- Under 'System & Security,' select 'Reset this PC.'

- Confirm by clicking 'Get started.'

After completing these steps, if you still encounter a black screen with cursor issue in Windows 10, it may be worth considering visiting an authorized Microsoft support center for further assistance or potentially even replacing your computer's hardware components.

Windows 10 black screen with cursor