How to Fix "Black Screen with Flashing Cursor" at Startup in Windows 11

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Encountering a black screen with a flashing cursor at startup in Windows 11 can be a frustrating experience, often indicating issues with system files, drivers, or hardware. This problem prevents you from accessing your desktop and can be caused by various factors including corrupt system files, display driver issues, or conflicts with recent updates. Fortunately, there are several methods to troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively. This guide will walk you through practical solutions to help you restore normal startup and regain access to your Windows 11 system.

1. Perform a Hard Reboot

Sometimes a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches.

  • Perform Hard Reboot:
    • Press and hold the power button on your computer until it shuts down completely. Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.

2. Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode allows you to start Windows with minimal drivers and services, which can help you troubleshoot the issue.

  • Access Advanced Startup Options:

    • If you can't access Windows normally, you can force the Advanced Startup Options menu by turning your computer on and off three times in a row using the power button.

  • Enter Safe Mode:

    • From the Advanced Startup Options menu, select “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Startup Settings” > “Restart.”
    • Once your PC restarts, select “4” or “F4” to start in Safe Mode.

3. Check for Display Connection Issues

A loose or damaged display connection can cause screen issues.

  • Inspect Cable Connections:

    • Ensure that the cable connecting your monitor to your computer is securely plugged in. Check both ends of the cable.

  • Test with Another Monitor:

    • If possible, connect your computer to a different monitor to determine if the issue is with your original display.

4. Update or Roll Back Display Drivers

Faulty or outdated display drivers can cause startup problems.

  • Boot into Safe Mode:

    • As described in step 2.

  • Open Device Manager:

    • Press Windows + X and select “Device Manager.”

  • Update Display Drivers:

    • Expand the “Display adapters” section, right-click your display driver, and select “Update driver.”
    • Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software” and follow the prompts.

  • Roll Back Display Drivers:

    • If updating doesn't help, right-click the display driver in Device Manager, select “Properties,” go to the “Driver” tab, and click “Roll Back Driver” if the option is available.

5. Perform a System File Check

Corrupted system files can cause startup issues.

  • Boot into Safe Mode:

    • As described in step 2.

  • Run System File Checker:

    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator by pressing Windows + X and selecting “Windows Terminal (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin).”
    • Type the following command and press Enter:
      sfc /scannow
    • Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.

6. Check for Malware

Malware infections can cause system instability and startup problems.

  • Boot into Safe Mode:

    • As described in step 2.

  • Run a Full Scan:

    • Use your antivirus software to perform a full system scan. If you don’t have antivirus software installed, use Windows Defender:
      • Go to “Settings” > “Privacy & Security” > “Windows Security” > “Virus & Threat Protection” and perform a full scan.

7. Perform a System Restore

Restoring your system to a previous state can resolve issues caused by recent changes.

  • Access System Restore:

    • Boot into Safe Mode as described in step 2.

  • Open System Restore:

    • Press Windows + R, type rstrui.exe, and press Enter.

  • Follow the Prompts:

    • Select a restore point from before the issue began and follow the prompts to restore your system.

8. Check for Recent Updates

Recent updates may have caused the issue.

  • Boot into Safe Mode:

    • As described in step 2.

  • Uninstall Recent Updates:

    • Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update” > “View update history” > “Uninstall updates.”
    • Remove any recent updates that may be causing the problem.

9. Repair Windows Using Installation Media

If the issue persists, repairing Windows using installation media can help.

  • Create Windows 11 Installation Media:

    • Use the Media Creation Tool from the Microsoft website to create installation media on a USB drive.

  • Boot from Installation Media:

    • Insert the USB drive into your computer and restart it. Access the boot menu (usually by pressing F12, Esc, or another key during startup) and boot from the USB drive.

  • Repair Your Computer:

    • Select “Repair your computer” instead of “Install now.” Follow the prompts to access advanced repair options.

10. Reinstall Windows 11

As a last resort, reinstalling Windows 11 can resolve persistent issues.

  • Backup Your Data:

    • Ensure all important data is backed up before proceeding with a reinstallation.

  • Reinstall Windows:

    • Boot from the installation media as described in step 9. Select “Install now” and follow the prompts to perform a clean installation of Windows 11.

Conclusion

The "Black Screen with Flashing Cursor" issue can be caused by various factors including hardware issues, corrupted files, and driver problems. By following these troubleshooting steps, such as booting into Safe Mode, updating drivers, performing system checks, and considering a system restore or reinstall, you can effectively address and resolve the issue. These solutions should help you restore normal operation to your Windows 11 system and resolve the black screen problem.

 

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