How to fix computer monitor display issues

You're doing some online shopping when you notice a slight flicker on your monitor. Thinking it's likely a glitch, you navigate to another website. The screen flickers again, then goes completely black with a no signal message. What's causing your computer monitor display issues?

Asurion Experts know how important a working monitor is. Whether you're encountering HDMI signal problems or need help selecting the best monitor settings, count on us for a quick solution. 

Ways to troubleshoot computer display issues

Display issues like flickering and faded corners are usually the result of a bad connection, incorrect settings, or an outdated driver. Here's how to fix them.

1. Check cable connections and power

Double-check the connection between your monitor and its power source. Make sure the cord fits securely in the outlet and the monitor. Try using a different power outlet, and if you use any other cables — HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA — unplug them from your devices and plug them back in on both ends.

If possible, use a different port on your monitor. A faulty port can cause connection issues with the monitor. If you note any signs of damage on the cables, replace them with new ones.

2. Restart your computer and monitor

Electrical surges and constant use can cause a buildup of power within your computer and monitor. Release the extra energy by doing a power cycle on both devices. This step can fix minor technical glitches in your devices.

1. Unplug the power cords from the computer and monitor for about 10 seconds.
2. Press the Power button on each device for at least 15 seconds.
3. Connect the power cable to the computer and monitor.
4. Turn both devices back on. 

3. Test with another device

If you have another monitor, connect it to your computer. Turn it on and see if it works. Alternatively, you can try using the problematic monitor with a different computer. This test can help you identify whether the issue lies with the monitor or your computer.

4. Adjust display settings

Computers have multiple display configuration settings you can adjust to fit your setup. Pay particular attention to brightness, resolution, and scale.

Windows

1. Select Start > Settings > System.
2. Select Display. 
3. Verify Scale and Display resolution use the recommended settings. 
4. Adjust Brightness to your preference.

Advanced display settings let you adjust your screen's refresh rate. Consider adjusting your refresh rate to a higher setting if you experience screen flickering or use your device for internet browsing and gaming.

Mac

1. Click Apple® menu > System Settings.
2. Click Displays from the sidebar menu.
3. Review options for Brightness, Resolution, and Refresh rate. Adjust to a higher Refresh rate if your monitor frequently flickers. 

5. Update graphics drivers

A corrupted or outdated graphics driver can cause monitor display problems. Use these steps to verify that you have the latest device drivers for your operating system.

Windows

1. Right-click the Start Menu > Device Manager.
2. Click the arrow next to Display adapters.
3. Right-click the name of the adapter. Click Update driver.
4. Follow the prompts to download and install the available update. Alternatively, try restarting your graphics driver with the shortcut Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + B.

Mac

1. Click Apple menu > System Settings.
2. Click General > Software Update.
3. Click Update Now. 

You can also download graphics drivers directly from the manufacturer's website. Some manufacturers have auto-detectors that can identify your hardware and provide you with the correct driver for your system.

6. Boot into Safe Mode (if screen is blank or flickering)

Safe Mode can help you narrow down software or driver issues that cause screen flickering.

Windows

1. Click Start > Settings > Update & Security.
2. Click Recovery > Advanced Startup > Restart Now.
3. Wait for the computer to reboot.
4. In the Choose an Option screen, click Troubleshoot > Advanced Options.
5. Click Startup Settings > Restart. 
6. Press the 4 or F4 key to reboot in Safe Mode. 

Mac

1. Turn on your Mac®. Press and hold the Power button during startup.
2. Release the Power button when the startup options screen appears.
3. Click Start up in Safe Mode. 

7. Look for physical screen damage or flickering

Damage to the screen's internal components and lighting panel may cause the display to bleed or appear dimmer in some spots. These problems, known as backlight bleed and burn-in, can occur because of manufacturing defects or age. Adjusting the brightness of your display can help, but it may not completely eliminate the problem.