Yes, it’s true that the “B” in BSoD can stand for both “blue” and “black” screens of death. These error messages are incredibly serious and should not be taken lightly. It’s essential to understand the differences between the two in order to effectively address any issues that may arise.

The blue screen of death, or BSoD, has been around since 1985 and is a well-known indicator of a critical computer error. While it can be frustrating, it typically indicates a fixable issue and may provide an error code that can be researched for a solution. On the other hand, the black screen of death is a much more ominous sign, often indicating a more severe and potentially irreparable problem.

Understanding the nature of these error messages is crucial for troubleshooting and finding solutions. So, the next time you encounter a BSoD or a black screen of death, don’t panic—there may still be hope for your device.

Any device can succumb to a black screen of death. Why does it happen? 

Dealing with a black screen on your laptop, PC, Mac, or smartphone can be incredibly frustrating, but it’s important not to panic. There are a number of potential causes for this issue, including hardware problems, software issues, and even malware. It’s crucial to approach troubleshooting in a step-by-step manner and to have patience as you work through the problem.

Hardware problems, such as communication issues or a hard drive that needs formatting, can often be the reason behind a black screen. It’s essential to understand the underlying causes and symptoms of your computer’s issues. For example, if your device sounds excessively loud, it may be overheating. This article can provide you with tips on how to address this issue and quiet a noisy computer fan.

System crashes can also result from corrupted files, incompatible driver updates, or improperly completed operating system updates or software installations. Even the power supply could be causing the problem! If the graphics card in your computer isn’t receiving enough power from the PSU, the screen may remain blank. Loose cables or an incorrectly positioned graphics card could also be to blame. And let’s not forget about malware, which can cause significant damage to your system.

With so many potential causes, it’s no surprise that troubleshooting a black screen often involves some trial and error. Even IT administrators can struggle with finding the root of the problem. But with patience and a methodical approach, you can work through the issues and get your device up and running again.

BSOD? Check your peripherals first 

Cables are a good place to start:

If you’re experiencing a sudden blank monitor, there’s no need to panic. It’s possible that the issue is just a loose or damaged video cable. Start by disconnecting and reconnecting all your video cables, such as HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort, and VGA. Make sure to blow gently into the ports to clear any debris that may be causing interference. If that doesn’t fix the problem, try swapping out the cable with a known working one, such as the video cable from your TV. If the new cable works, you’ll know that your original cable is damaged and needs to be replaced. It’s common for cables to wear out over time, especially if you’re frequently plugging and unplugging them from your laptop or monitor. Don’t let a blank screen ruin your day – a simple cable swap could be the solution you need.

Not a cable fault?Check your monitor:  It is absolutely crucial that you double-check your monitor to make sure it is connected to the correct source. If you have access to a different display, I highly recommend trying to connect to that in order to pinpoint where the issue lies. It could also be beneficial to connect your display to a TV or vice versa to troubleshoot the problem. Furthermore, it’s important to consider the resolution of your monitor and display, as a mismatch could be causing issues, especially if your PC is optimized for gaming and requires a high resolution display. Don’t overlook these steps, as they could be the key to resolving your monitor issues.

Unplug unnecessary accessories:  When it comes to computer startup issues, it’s important to consider all accessories as potential culprits. This means everything from external hard drives to USB connections, Wi-Fi antennas, and VR headsets. The best approach is to unplug everything that’s not essential for your PC to work, leaving only the monitor, mouse, and keyboard connected. Then, restart your computer and hope for the best. It’s a simple yet effective troubleshooting method that can help identify the culprit causing the startup problem. Give it a try and see the difference it can make!

Don’t forget computer maintenance:   It is absolutely essential to maintain the smooth operation of your computer by regularly tuning it up and ensuring that updates come from official sources. No matter if your computer is new, old, or overclocked, it is highly advisable to perform a safe CPU stress test to gauge its performance capabilities. Optimization tools are crucial for getting rid of digital clutter and ensuring faster start-ups and stable performance. On top of that, software updaters make it easier to keep up with safe updates. Avira Free Security provides all of these features, along with powerful anti-malware protection, making it a convenient choice for addressing multiple challenges at once. It serves as a one-stop solution for optimizing and securing your computer.

PC or laptop problems? If the black screen occurs before Windows sign-in 

Imagine this: you’re staring at a black screen before logging in, feeling frustrated and hopeless. But wait, there’s hope! It may be easier to fix than you think. All you need is a little patience to identify the cause. Trust me, there’s a ray of light in this otherwise bleak scenario. Are you ready to tackle the problem? Let’s do this!

Optimize your start-up applications

Disabling unnecessary resources at startup can make a huge difference in how quickly your computer boots up. Avira System Speedup offers a user-friendly way to manage your startup applications, so you can easily put a stop to the ones that are slowing you down. Take charge of your system’s performance and give your boot time a major boost with Avira System Speedup.

Refresh the screen via the Windows key sequence

It is crucial that you verify if the indicator light turns on when you press the CapsLock or NumLock keys. This small troubleshooting step can be extremely helpful in determining if the computer is functioning properly but unable to activate the screen. Don’t overlook this simple step, as it can provide valuable insight into the issue at hand.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where your computer is not responding, there’s no need to panic. Just follow these steps to troubleshoot the issue and get your PC back up and running.

Firstly, if any of the key lights turn on, press Ctrl + Alt + Delete to bring up the administrator menu. Select your account and sign in. If you’re unable to sign in, click the Power icon and choose Restart to reboot the PC. If the computer freezes at a black screen again, forcibly shut it down by pressing and holding the power button for around 15 seconds.

On the other hand, if none of the keys light up, manually shut down the computer by pressing the power button for around 15 seconds. After that, remove the power adapter from the computer for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in and restart the computer.

Following these steps should hopefully resolve the issue and have your PC back up and running smoothly. If not, then it’s time to move on to step 3.

Boot into Safe Mode. Safe Mode is absolutely crucial for troubleshooting and resolving technical issues on your Windows computer. It provides a basic and limited state for your operating system, allowing you to identify if any problems are caused by default settings or basic drivers. Whether you’re dealing with a black screen or other issues, Safe Mode can help narrow down the potential causes. And with Safe Mode with Networking, you can even access the internet and other computers on your network. It’s an invaluable tool for anyone dealing with computer problems.

• If you’re struggling to access your Windows Recovery Environment, I strongly suggest trying this simple method. By repeatedly turning off and on your device and holding the power button down for 15 seconds, you can enter the Windows Recovery Environment and access troubleshooting options. This can be a quick and effective way to regain control of your device and resolve any issues you may be facing. Give it a try and see the difference it can make!
• I urge you to let your device restart into Automatic Repair and choose the Advanced options to enter winRE. This will effectively tackle any issues your device may be facing and offer you advanced troubleshooting options to resolve the problem. It’s crucial to make use of these options to guarantee that your device is working correctly and to avoid any future problems. Therefore, please proceed to follow the steps to enter winRE for an improved and seamless experience with your device.
• Don’t worry if you see a blue “Choose an option” screen. Just follow these steps to troubleshoot the issue: Select “Troubleshoot,” then “Advanced options,” and finally “Startup Settings.” After that, click the Restart button at the bottom. These simple steps can help you fix the issue and get your system running smoothly again.
• After your computer restarts, you will be presented with a list of options. To access Safe Mode with Networking, choose option 5 from the list or simply press F5. This mode allows you to troubleshoot any issues with your computer while still having access to the internet. It’s a great way to diagnose and fix any problems that may be affecting your system. So, don’t hesitate to use Safe Mode with Networking to ensure that your computer is running smoothly.

PC or laptop woes: Fix a black screen that occurs after signing in to Windows 

I know you’ve likely heard the old saying “switch it on and off again” countless times, but let me tell you, it truly does work! When your system has been running for a while and starts to slow down, a simple reboot can make a world of difference. Just hold down the power button for about 15 seconds to perform a hard reset. If that doesn’t do the trick, then it’s time to move on to the next steps. Trust me, a reboot can work wonders for your system!

• Restart File Explorer

Hey there! If you’re dealing with the frustrating issue of a black screen and a visible mouse cursor, I’ve got great news for you. There’s a simple solution that can get your display up and running again. It’s likely just a problem with File Explorer, but you can easily fix it by following these steps for Windows 10 and 11:

First, press Ctrl + Alt + Delete to launch Task Manager. Or, you can simply type “task manager” in the Start menu search bar and select the best match. Once Task Manager is open, go to the Processes tab and highlight “Windows Explorer.” Then, right-click on Windows Explorer and choose “Restart.” It’s as easy as that! Give it a try, and your display should be back to normal in no time.

• Refresh the screen via a Windows key sequence

Hey there! If you’re dealing with a frustrating black screen on your computer, I’ve got a quick and easy fix for you. Just press the Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + b to force a refresh of the video display/adapter. You’ll hear a short beep, and then your screen will dim and restart. Trust me, this simple solution will make that annoying black screen disappear. Give it a try and get back to using your computer hassle-free!

• Reset your PC

If you’ve tried everything and still haven’t seen any results, it’s time to take the big step and reset your PC. But don’t worry, we’ll guide you through it. First, enable safe mode again. Then, simply enter “Reset” in the search bar and select the “Reset this PC” option. Click on “Get Started” and choose “Keep my files.” Just follow the instructions that appear, and you’ll be on your way to a fresh start for your PC. Trust me, it’s the best decision you can make for your computer.

PC problems: How to fix the black screen of death after a Windows 10 Update 

When it comes to installing new software or updating your operating system, it’s not uncommon to encounter problems. If you suspect that this may be the cause of your issues, consider trying out these options.

• Update your graphics card driver:

Make sure your operating system is always up to date, especially when it comes to your graphics drivers. It’s important to avoid issues like black screens or other compatibility problems that can arise from outdated or incompatible graphics drivers. Don’t risk having a computer that doesn’t run smoothly – keep those graphics drivers updated!

1. Restart your computer in Safe Mode.  
2. Enter Windows Diagnostics mode by pressing the power button repeatedly and choosing Advanced Options. Then click on Startup Settings. 
3. Select Advanced option. 
4. Choose Restart and click the number 5 key on the keyboard to enable Safe Mode with Networking. 
5. Select the This PC icon and then Properties. 
6. On the left side of the display, click on Device Manager. 
7. Find your Windows graphic card driver under the option Display Adapters and right-click on it. 
8. Choose Update Driver from the options and then click on Search automatically for updated driver software.

You should definitely take advantage of this new feature on your computer! Having the latest graphics driver installed will greatly improve the performance and visual quality of your computer. Don’t hesitate to click on Close and restart your PC in normal mode – you’ll thank yourself for it later. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

• Uninstall third-party Windows software:

You know, it’s not just drivers that can cause problems after a Windows update. Third-party apps can also struggle to adapt to the new settings, leading to malfunctions and issues. That’s why it’s so important to take action and address this. Restarting your PC and entering Safe Mode to perform troubleshooting steps will ensure that all your apps are working properly and that your system is running smoothly. Don’t take any chances – take control and make sure everything is running as it should.

1. Within Safe Mode, open Task Manager from the Start menu. 
2. Under the menu bar, click on Run new task.
3. Enter services.msc in the dialogue box that opens and proceed. 
4. Double-click on App Readiness and a new pop-up box appears. 
5. Select Startup type from the options and then click on Disabled.  
6. Click OK to save the new settings and restart your PC. 

Do detective work with the Windows Reliability Monitor  

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am thrilled to introduce you to the Reliability Monitor, an incredible tool for Windows users. This free app is an invaluable resource for understanding your system’s stability and addressing any critical events or warnings. It’s a powerful tool for fixing those frustrating BSOD errors and reporting bugs directly to Microsoft.

I want to stress that the Reliability Monitor isn’t a miracle worker, but it can certainly provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your system. By analyzing error reports, software and driver updates, and more, you can identify and resolve any issues that may be affecting your computer’s performance. You can easily access this helpful tool by typing “reliab” into the Start menu search box.

In times of technical trouble, rely on the Reliability Monitor to guide you towards a smoother, more efficient computing experience. It’s a game-changer!

Fix a black screen of death on a Mac  

It’s absolutely crucial to remember the IT mantra “turn it on and off again” when dealing with a black screen on your Mac. But if the usual shutdown doesn’t work, it’s time to perform a forced shutdown by pressing and holding the power button until your Mac shuts off. Then, wait a few moments and press the power button again to restart your computer.

If that doesn’t resolve the issue, consider power cycling your Mac by completely draining it of power and then turning it back on. For different Mac models, the process may vary, so make sure to follow the specific instructions for your device.

If you’re still experiencing problems, don’t panic. You can explore your Mac’s Disk Utility feature to find and repair disk errors. Just remember to always have a current backup of your Mac, as Disk Utility may find errors it can’t repair.

Another troubleshooting step is to boot your Mac into Safe Mode, allowing only essential apps and programs to start up. This can help identify and oust any malfunctioning apps or programs that may be causing the black screen issue.

Remember, with a little patience and the right troubleshooting steps, you can get your Mac up and running again in no time. And always remember to have a backup of your data!

Continue in Safe Mode. 

If you’re at your wit’s end trying to fix a major issue on your Mac, reinstalling the Mac OS might just be the solution you need. And the good news is, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. With macOS Recovery, the process is straightforward and hassle-free. For Apple Silicon Macs, just long-press the power button and select the Gear icon to access macOS Recovery. Then, choose Reinstall macOS and follow the step-by-step instructions. For Intel Macs, simply press and hold the Command (⌘) + R keys during startup and select Reinstall macOS from the Utilities window in macOS Recovery. Trust me, it’s a simple and effective way to fix critical errors and get your Mac running smoothly again.

Don’t forget to check the power supply unit (PSU) of your PC or Mac 

If you’ve checked everything else and are certain that your computer fan isn’t working overtime to cool down an overheated component, then it’s possible that the power supply is the problem. However, don’t immediately blame the PSU as upgrades to power-hungry components like video cards or processors can also impact the power supply, causing other components to not receive the power they need to function properly.

To determine if the power supply is the issue, you can test it with a multimeter or replace it with a new one. If you’re using a Mac Pro (2023), here’s how you can swap out the power supply. It’s important to address a faulty PSU as it can potentially damage your computer, but replacing it should be a last resort. Power supplies rarely need to be replaced and with careful hands, you don’t need a degree in computer science to do so.

Smart phone woes? Help combat the BSOD on an iPhone or Android 

If you ever come across a black screen on your Android or iPhone, don’t worry. There are a few common reasons for this problem, like faulty apps, OS malfunctions, battery issues, or physical screen damage. A drop or accident can easily damage the screen, causing it to become unresponsive. But don’t worry, there are solutions to these problems and professional help is available to get your phone back up and running. Don’t let a black screen ruin your day, take action and get your device fixed!

Help prevent crashes and enjoy smoother performance

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to protecting your devices from online threats. You absolutely need routine maintenance and trusted protection from viruses and malware. Online threats can be lurking anywhere, from files and third-party apps to websites and online ads. That’s why it’s crucial to install new programs from official sources and back up your computer regularly to safeguard your important folders from being corrupted.

For the ultimate peace of mind, consider a solution that combines security, privacy, and performance optimizers. Avira Free Security offers all of this and more, including Avira System Speedup, Free Antivirus, Password Manager, VPN, and other essential features to keep your devices safe and running smoothly.

And remember, if you’re ever unsure about how to deal with any issues or problems that arise, it’s always best to consult a professional technician. This way, you can avoid risking any damage to your computer and ensure that your devices remain in top condition.

It’s important to note that Apple, Mac, and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., while Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks belong to their respective owners.

Yes, it’s true that the “B” in BSoD can stand for both “blue” and “black” screens of death. These error messages are incredibly serious and should not be taken lightly. It’s essential to understand the differences between the two in order to effectively address any issues that may arise.

The blue screen of death, or BSoD, has been around since 1985 and is a well-known indicator of a critical computer error. While it can be frustrating, it typically indicates a fixable issue and may provide an error code that can be researched for a solution. On the other hand, the black screen of death is a much more ominous sign, often indicating a more severe and potentially irreparable problem.

Understanding the nature of these error messages is crucial for troubleshooting and finding solutions. So, the next time you encounter a BSoD or a black screen of death, don’t panic—there may still be hope for your device.

Any device can succumb to a black screen of death. Why does it happen? 

Dealing with a black screen on your laptop, PC, Mac, or smartphone can be incredibly frustrating, but it’s important not to panic. There are a number of potential causes for this issue, including hardware problems, software issues, and even malware. It’s crucial to approach troubleshooting in a step-by-step manner and to have patience as you work through the problem.

Hardware problems, such as communication issues or a hard drive that needs formatting, can often be the reason behind a black screen. It’s essential to understand the underlying causes and symptoms of your computer’s issues. For example, if your device sounds excessively loud, it may be overheating. This article can provide you with tips on how to address this issue and quiet a noisy computer fan.

System crashes can also result from corrupted files, incompatible driver updates, or improperly completed operating system updates or software installations. Even the power supply could be causing the problem! If the graphics card in your computer isn’t receiving enough power from the PSU, the screen may remain blank. Loose cables or an incorrectly positioned graphics card could also be to blame. And let’s not forget about malware, which can cause significant damage to your system.

With so many potential causes, it’s no surprise that troubleshooting a black screen often involves some trial and error. Even IT administrators can struggle with finding the root of the problem. But with patience and a methodical approach, you can work through the issues and get your device up and running again.

BSOD? Check your peripherals first 

Cables are a good place to start:If you’re experiencing a sudden blank monitor, there’s no need to panic. It’s possible that the issue is just a loose or damaged video cable. Start by disconnecting and reconnecting all your video cables, such as HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort, and VGA. Make sure to blow gently into the ports to clear any debris that may be causing interference. If that doesn’t fix the problem, try swapping out the cable with a known working one, such as the video cable from your TV. If the new cable works, you’ll know that your original cable is damaged and needs to be replaced. It’s common for cables to wear out over time, especially if you’re frequently plugging and unplugging them from your laptop or monitor. Don’t let a blank screen ruin your day – a simple cable swap could be the solution you need.

Not a cable fault?Check your monitor:  It is absolutely crucial that you double-check your monitor to make sure it is connected to the correct source. If you have access to a different display, I highly recommend trying to connect to that in order to pinpoint where the issue lies. It could also be beneficial to connect your display to a TV or vice versa to troubleshoot the problem. Furthermore, it’s important to consider the resolution of your monitor and display, as a mismatch could be causing issues, especially if your PC is optimized for gaming and requires a high resolution display. Don’t overlook these steps, as they could be the key to resolving your monitor issues.

Unplug unnecessary accessories:  When it comes to computer startup issues, it’s important to consider all accessories as potential culprits. This means everything from external hard drives to USB connections, Wi-Fi antennas, and VR headsets. The best approach is to unplug everything that’s not essential for your PC to work, leaving only the monitor, mouse, and keyboard connected. Then, restart your computer and hope for the best. It’s a simple yet effective troubleshooting method that can help identify the culprit causing the startup problem. Give it a try and see the difference it can make!

Don’t forget computer maintenance:   It is absolutely essential to maintain the smooth operation of your computer by regularly tuning it up and ensuring that updates come from official sources. No matter if your computer is new, old, or overclocked, it is highly advisable to perform a safe CPU stress test to gauge its performance capabilities. Optimization tools are crucial for getting rid of digital clutter and ensuring faster start-ups and stable performance. On top of that, software updaters make it easier to keep up with safe updates. Avira Free Security provides all of these features, along with powerful anti-malware protection, making it a convenient choice for addressing multiple challenges at once. It serves as a one-stop solution for optimizing and securing your computer.

PC or laptop problems? If the black screen occurs before Windows sign-in 

Imagine this: you’re staring at a black screen before logging in, feeling frustrated and hopeless. But wait, there’s hope! It may be easier to fix than you think. All you need is a little patience to identify the cause. Trust me, there’s a ray of light in this otherwise bleak scenario. Are you ready to tackle the problem? Let’s do this!

Optimize your start-up applications

Disabling unnecessary resources at startup can make a huge difference in how quickly your computer boots up. Avira System Speedup offers a user-friendly way to manage your startup applications, so you can easily put a stop to the ones that are slowing you down. Take charge of your system’s performance and give your boot time a major boost with Avira System Speedup.

Refresh the screen via the Windows key sequence

It is crucial that you verify if the indicator light turns on when you press the CapsLock or NumLock keys. This small troubleshooting step can be extremely helpful in determining if the computer is functioning properly but unable to activate the screen. Don’t overlook this simple step, as it can provide valuable insight into the issue at hand.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where your computer is not responding, there’s no need to panic. Just follow these steps to troubleshoot the issue and get your PC back up and running.

Firstly, if any of the key lights turn on, press Ctrl + Alt + Delete to bring up the administrator menu. Select your account and sign in. If you’re unable to sign in, click the Power icon and choose Restart to reboot the PC. If the computer freezes at a black screen again, forcibly shut it down by pressing and holding the power button for around 15 seconds.

On the other hand, if none of the keys light up, manually shut down the computer by pressing the power button for around 15 seconds. After that, remove the power adapter from the computer for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in and restart the computer.

Following these steps should hopefully resolve the issue and have your PC back up and running smoothly. If not, then it’s time to move on to step 3.

Boot into Safe Mode. Safe Mode is absolutely crucial for troubleshooting and resolving technical issues on your Windows computer. It provides a basic and limited state for your operating system, allowing you to identify if any problems are caused by default settings or basic drivers. Whether you’re dealing with a black screen or other issues, Safe Mode can help narrow down the potential causes. And with Safe Mode with Networking, you can even access the internet and other computers on your network. It’s an invaluable tool for anyone dealing with computer problems.

• If you’re struggling to access your Windows Recovery Environment, I strongly suggest trying this simple method. By repeatedly turning off and on your device and holding the power button down for 15 seconds, you can enter the Windows Recovery Environment and access troubleshooting options. This can be a quick and effective way to regain control of your device and resolve any issues you may be facing. Give it a try and see the difference it can make!
• I urge you to let your device restart into Automatic Repair and choose the Advanced options to enter winRE. This will effectively tackle any issues your device may be facing and offer you advanced troubleshooting options to resolve the problem. It’s crucial to make use of these options to guarantee that your device is working correctly and to avoid any future problems. Therefore, please proceed to follow the steps to enter winRE for an improved and seamless experience with your device.
• Don’t worry if you see a blue “Choose an option” screen. Just follow these steps to troubleshoot the issue: Select “Troubleshoot,” then “Advanced options,” and finally “Startup Settings.” After that, click the Restart button at the bottom. These simple steps can help you fix the issue and get your system running smoothly again.
• After your computer restarts, you will be presented with a list of options. To access Safe Mode with Networking, choose option 5 from the list or simply press F5. This mode allows you to troubleshoot any issues with your computer while still having access to the internet. It’s a great way to diagnose and fix any problems that may be affecting your system. So, don’t hesitate to use Safe Mode with Networking to ensure that your computer is running smoothly.

PC or laptop woes: Fix a black screen that occurs after signing in to Windows 

I know you’ve likely heard the old saying “switch it on and off again” countless times, but let me tell you, it truly does work! When your system has been running for a while and starts to slow down, a simple reboot can make a world of difference. Just hold down the power button for about 15 seconds to perform a hard reset. If that doesn’t do the trick, then it’s time to move on to the next steps. Trust me, a reboot can work wonders for your system!

• Restart File Explorer

Hey there! If you’re dealing with the frustrating issue of a black screen and a visible mouse cursor, I’ve got great news for you. There’s a simple solution that can get your display up and running again. It’s likely just a problem with File Explorer, but you can easily fix it by following these steps for Windows 10 and 11:

First, press Ctrl + Alt + Delete to launch Task Manager. Or, you can simply type “task manager” in the Start menu search bar and select the best match. Once Task Manager is open, go to the Processes tab and highlight “Windows Explorer.” Then, right-click on Windows Explorer and choose “Restart.” It’s as easy as that! Give it a try, and your display should be back to normal in no time.

• Refresh the screen via a Windows key sequence

Hey there! If you’re dealing with a frustrating black screen on your computer, I’ve got a quick and easy fix for you. Just press the Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + b to force a refresh of the video display/adapter. You’ll hear a short beep, and then your screen will dim and restart. Trust me, this simple solution will make that annoying black screen disappear. Give it a try and get back to using your computer hassle-free!

• Reset your PC

If you’ve tried everything and still haven’t seen any results, it’s time to take the big step and reset your PC. But don’t worry, we’ll guide you through it. First, enable safe mode again. Then, simply enter “Reset” in the search bar and select the “Reset this PC” option. Click on “Get Started” and choose “Keep my files.” Just follow the instructions that appear, and you’ll be on your way to a fresh start for your PC. Trust me, it’s the best decision you can make for your computer.

PC problems: How to fix the black screen of death after a Windows 10 Update 

When it comes to installing new software or updating your operating system, it’s not uncommon to encounter problems. If you suspect that this may be the cause of your issues, consider trying out these options.

• Update your graphics card driver:

Make sure your operating system is always up to date, especially when it comes to your graphics drivers. It’s important to avoid issues like black screens or other compatibility problems that can arise from outdated or incompatible graphics drivers. Don’t risk having a computer that doesn’t run smoothly – keep those graphics drivers updated!

9. Restart your computer in Safe Mode.  
10. Enter Windows Diagnostics mode by pressing the power button repeatedly and choosing Advanced Options. Then click on Startup Settings. 
11. Select Advanced option. 
12. Choose Restart and click the number 5 key on the keyboard to enable Safe Mode with Networking. 
13. Select the This PC icon and then Properties. 
14. On the left side of the display, click on Device Manager. 
15. Find your Windows graphic card driver under the option Display Adapters and right-click on it. 
16. Choose Update Driver from the options and then click on Search automatically for updated driver software.

You should definitely take advantage of this new feature on your computer! Having the latest graphics driver installed will greatly improve the performance and visual quality of your computer. Don’t hesitate to click on Close and restart your PC in normal mode – you’ll thank yourself for it later. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

• Uninstall third-party Windows software:

You know, it’s not just drivers that can cause problems after a Windows update. Third-party apps can also struggle to adapt to the new settings, leading to malfunctions and issues. That’s why it’s so important to take action and address this. Restarting your PC and entering Safe Mode to perform troubleshooting steps will ensure that all your apps are working properly and that your system is running smoothly. Don’t take any chances – take control and make sure everything is running as it should.

7. Within Safe Mode, open Task Manager from the Start menu. 
8. Under the menu bar, click on Run new task.
9. Enter services.msc in the dialogue box that opens and proceed. 
10. Double-click on App Readiness and a new pop-up box appears. 
11. Select Startup type from the options and then click on Disabled.  
12. Click OK to save the new settings and restart your PC. 

Do detective work with the Windows Reliability Monitor  

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am thrilled to introduce you to the Reliability Monitor, an incredible tool for Windows users. This free app is an invaluable resource for understanding your system’s stability and addressing any critical events or warnings. It’s a powerful tool for fixing those frustrating BSOD errors and reporting bugs directly to Microsoft.

I want to stress that the Reliability Monitor isn’t a miracle worker, but it can certainly provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your system. By analyzing error reports, software and driver updates, and more, you can identify and resolve any issues that may be affecting your computer’s performance. You can easily access this helpful tool by typing “reliab” into the Start menu search box.

In times of technical trouble, rely on the Reliability Monitor to guide you towards a smoother, more efficient computing experience. It’s a game-changer!

Fix a black screen of death on a Mac  

It’s absolutely crucial to remember the IT mantra “turn it on and off again” when dealing with a black screen on your Mac. But if the usual shutdown doesn’t work, it’s time to perform a forced shutdown by pressing and holding the power button until your Mac shuts off. Then, wait a few moments and press the power button again to restart your computer.

If that doesn’t resolve the issue, consider power cycling your Mac by completely draining it of power and then turning it back on. For different Mac models, the process may vary, so make sure to follow the specific instructions for your device.

If you’re still experiencing problems, don’t panic. You can explore your Mac’s Disk Utility feature to find and repair disk errors. Just remember to always have a current backup of your Mac, as Disk Utility may find errors it can’t repair.

Another troubleshooting step is to boot your Mac into Safe Mode, allowing only essential apps and programs to start up. This can help identify and oust any malfunctioning apps or programs that may be causing the black screen issue.

Remember, with a little patience and the right troubleshooting steps, you can get your Mac up and running again in no time. And always remember to have a backup of your data!

Continue in Safe Mode. 

If you’re at your wit’s end trying to fix a major issue on your Mac, reinstalling the Mac OS might just be the solution you need. And the good news is, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. With macOS Recovery, the process is straightforward and hassle-free. For Apple Silicon Macs, just long-press the power button and select the Gear icon to access macOS Recovery. Then, choose Reinstall macOS and follow the step-by-step instructions. For Intel Macs, simply press and hold the Command (⌘) + R keys during startup and select Reinstall macOS from the Utilities window in macOS Recovery. Trust me, it’s a simple and effective way to fix critical errors and get your Mac running smoothly again.

Don’t forget to check the power supply unit (PSU) of your PC or Mac 

If you’ve checked everything else and are certain that your computer fan isn’t working overtime to cool down an overheated component, then it’s possible that the power supply is the problem. However, don’t immediately blame the PSU as upgrades to power-hungry components like video cards or processors can also impact the power supply, causing other components to not receive the power they need to function properly.

To determine if the power supply is the issue, you can test it with a multimeter or replace it with a new one. If you’re using a Mac Pro (2023), here’s how you can swap out the power supply. It’s important to address a faulty PSU as it can potentially damage your computer, but replacing it should be a last resort. Power supplies rarely need to be replaced and with careful hands, you don’t need a degree in computer science to do so.

Smart phone woes? Help combat the BSOD on an iPhone or Android 

If you ever come across a black screen on your Android or iPhone, don’t worry. There are a few common reasons for this problem, like faulty apps, OS malfunctions, battery issues, or physical screen damage. A drop or accident can easily damage the screen, causing it to become unresponsive. But don’t worry, there are solutions to these problems and professional help is available to get your phone back up and running. Don’t let a black screen ruin your day, take action and get your device fixed!

Help prevent crashes and enjoy smoother performance

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to protecting your devices from online threats. You absolutely need routine maintenance and trusted protection from viruses and malware. Online threats can be lurking anywhere, from files and third-party apps to websites and online ads. That’s why it’s crucial to install new programs from official sources and back up your computer regularly to safeguard your important folders from being corrupted.For the ultimate peace of mind, consider a solution that combines security, privacy, and performance optimizers. Avira Free Security offers all of this and more, including Avira System Speedup, Free Antivirus, Password Manager, VPN, and other essential features to keep your devices safe and running smoothly.

And remember, if you’re ever unsure about how to deal with any issues or problems that arise, it’s always best to consult a professional technician. This way, you can avoid risking any damage to your computer and ensure that your devices remain in top condition.It’s important to note that Apple, Mac, and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., while Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks belong to their respective owners.