How to Fix a Black Screen with Cursor in Windows 10: Troubleshooting Steps

Encountering a black screen with a cursor in Windows 10 can be quite frustrating. However, with the right steps, you can resolve this issue and get back to using your computer smoothly. This article will guide you through various troubleshooting methods, from simple restarts to more advanced system restoration techniques. Let's explore each step in detail.

1. Restart Your Computer

Often, the simplest solution to a black screen with a cursor is to restart your computer. Sometimes, just a basic reboot can fix the problem. If the issue persists, move on to the next step.

2. Check External Devices

Disconnect all external devices such as USB drives, external monitors, or printers from your computer. External hardware conflicts can sometimes cause a black screen. Reconnect the devices one by one to identify any problematic devices that may be causing the issue.

3. Boot into Safe Mode

Boot into Safe Mode to see if the problem is caused by third-party drivers or software.

Press and hold the Shift key while clicking the Restart option from the Start menu. This will take you to the Advanced Startup Options. Select Startup settings and then Restart. After your computer restarts, use the arrow keys to navigate to and select Safe Mode with Networking. Click Restart.

4. Check Graphics Drivers

If booting into Safe Mode doesn't resolve the issue, check your graphics drivers.

Boot into Safe Mode as described above. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. Expand Display adapters. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver. Choose to Search automatically for updated driver software. If updating the driver doesn't work, try rolling back the driver or uninstalling it and then restarting your computer.

5. Perform System Restore

System Restore can help you revert your computer to a previous state, removing the possibility of recently installed software or drivers causing the issue.

Boot into Safe Mode. Go to the System menu and click on System Protection. Select the backup you want to restore from and follow the prompts to complete the restoration process.

6. Repair Windows

Using the built-in system repair tool, you can attempt to fix Windows issues.

Use a Windows 10 installation USB or DVD. Boot from the installation media. Select your language and region preferences and click NEXT. Click on Repair your computer. Select Command prompt and run the following command:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Run the following command to enable tamper protection:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /Enable-TamperProtectionOn

7. Check for Malware

Run a full system scan using your preferred antivirus software to check for malware that might be causing the issue.

8. Update Windows

Ensure that Windows 10 is up to date with the latest updates. This can often resolve known issues and improve system stability.

If the issue persists after trying these steps, it may be a more complex problem that requires professional assistance or contacting Microsoft support for further guidance.