Why your computer screen flickers and how to fix it

Check this guide, no more flickering screen!
Why your computer screen flickers and how to fix it

If you’re reading this, chances are your computer screen is flickering and you want to fix it. Logical, because a flickering screen is very annoying. You know, that moment when your computer decides to put on a spontaneous light show while you’re in the middle of an important task.

You’re not alone: ​​a flickering computer screen is a common problem that most computer users face sooner or later.

But what exactly does it mean when your computer screen flickers? What causes this irritating phenomenon and more importantly, how can you solve it? Put on your detective cap, because I’ll explain everything to you! 👇

Key points summarized:

  • A flickering computer screen may be caused by technical problems such as a faulty display adapter or a problematic Windows update.
  • Problems with the display driver in some cases result in a flickering screen, but are often easily resolved by updating or reinstalling the driver.
  • Preventive measures such as regular updates, proper maintenance of the PC and checking of the display adapter will help prevent future screen flickering.

What does it mean when your computer screen flickers?

If your computer screen seems to take on a life of its own, with light shows worthy of a nightclub, then we’re talking about a flickering computer screen. This ranges from subtle vibrations to your screen turning on and off completely.

I know from experience that a flickering screen can have a major impact on your user experience. Imagine you are preparing an important presentation or in the middle of an exciting game, and suddenly your screen starts blinking like crazy. Annoying, right?

The most common causes of a flickering computer screen

There are plenty of technical issues that lead to a flickering screen. One of the biggest culprits is often the display adapter. This little guy is responsible for sending image information from your computer to your monitor. If something is wrong with your adapter, your screen may flicker.

Another possible culprit is the infamous Windows update. While these updates are intended to improve and secure your system, they occasionally cause problems such as a flickering screen.

How a flickering screen affects your PC experience

A flickering screen seriously ruins your PC experience. It’s not exactly conducive to your productivity if you’re constantly looking at a flickering screen.

Moreover, working for a long time on a flickering screen can have adverse effects on your health. It can cause headaches, eye strain and even nausea. Not fun if you ask me. 😅

a man looks tensely at a monitor

Start with the root of the problem

If your screen starts to flicker, the first thing you should do is find out the root of the problem.

A good place to start is by looking at your display driver. This is the piece of software that tells your computer how to communicate with your monitor. If something is wrong with this driver, it can quickly lead to all kinds of strange screen problems, such as flickering.

Technical issues that cause a flickering computer screen

You might not think so, but there are countless technical problems that cause a flickering computer screen. From overheating to problems with your graphics card, everything is possible.

But don’t panic, we’re going to investigate together. 

Display adapters and flickering screens

Display adapters play a major role in causing flicker. They are the middleman between your computer and your screen. They ensure that the images from your computer appear neatly on your screen. But if they don’t function properly, your screen may start to flicker.

The good news? Problems with display adapters are often easy to solve. For example, you need to update or reinstall them. And if you’re an avid gamer, check out our guide to the best gaming monitor.

Windows Update and its impact on your computer screen

A Windows update is like that friend who always gives unsolicited advice. Sometimes it’s useful, sometimes it causes problems. An update is the culprit behind a flickering screen in some cases.

Check if a recent update is the culprit. You do this by going to your computer’s update history. If an update is causing the problem, an option is to roll back this update.

And if you’re having trouble with sunlight hitting your screen, check out how to protect your computer screen from sunlight.

The role of the display driver in a flickering computer screen

Another potential problem is your display driver. This is the piece of software that tells your computer how to use your display adapter. If there is something wrong with your driver, your screen may flicker.

Fortunately, problems with your display driver are often easy to solve. For example, update or reinstall the driver. You update your display driver via your computer’s device manager.

Troubleshooting a flickering computer screen

Solving a flickering computer screen can feel like unraveling a mystery. But with the right steps you will get there.

Man looks at his laptop

There are several methods to solve the problem. For example, update your display driver, boot your computer in safe mode, or adjust your display settings.

And how do you know if the problem has been solved? That’s simple. When your screen stops flickering, you’ve solved the riddle.️‍️ 😋

The Ctrl Alt Delete method explained

When your computer screen flickers, Ctrl – Alt – Delete is your new best friend. 🙂

This is a quick fix that will allow you to address the issue right away. It’s as simple as it sounds: just press the Ctrl, Alt and Delete keys simultaneously on your keyboard. This opens the Task Manager, where you have the option to kill any running processes that might be causing problems.

But what if this doesn’t solve the problem? Don’t panic, there are other methods to deal with the problem. Let’s take a look at the search bar.

Use the search bar to solve the problem

The search bar is a powerful troubleshooting tool.️‍️ Type “device manager” into the search bar and select it from the results. Here you will find a list of all devices connected to your PC, including your display adapter.

Right click on your display adapter and select “update driver“. Your PC will now look for driver updates. If updates are available, your PC will install them automatically. If this does not solve the problem, it may be necessary to call in an expert.

How to prevent flickering screen on your device

Prevention is better than cure. The same goes for a flickering computer screen. There are several ways to avoid this annoying problem in the future . One of the best practices is to properly maintain your computer screen and check for updates regularly .

Here are some best practices to prevent future flickering:

  • Update your PC regularly . This means not only the operating system, but also all the software and apps you use.
  • Maintain your PC well . This includes keeping your PC clean and regularly checking for viruses and malware. 
  • Check your display adapter . If your display adapter is outdated or not working properly, it can lead to a flickering screen. So it’s a good idea to check it regularly and update it if necessary.️
Laptop is on a desk

Updates are important because they often fix bugs and problems that existed in previous versions of the operating system or software. Keeping your PC up to date will prevent many problems, including a flickering screen.

By following these simple steps, you will greatly reduce the chance of screen flickering and enjoy a smooth and hassle-free PC experience.

Conclusion

Well, that was quite a ride, wasn’t it? We’ve entered the mysterious world of flickering computer screens, exposed the possible culprits, and even provided some solutions.

Remember that a flickering screen, annoying as it is, is often the result of an underlying technical issue. By addressing the source of the problem, you will hopefully return your computer to its normal, bland, flicker-free self.

Remember, prevention is the best cure. Take good care of your PC, keep your software up-to-date and you might save yourself the headache of a flickering screen in the future. 

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