How to Fix a Windows 10 Computer That Won’t Turn On

Troubleshooting A Windows 10 Computer That Won’t Turn On

If your Windows 10 computer fails to turn on, several potential issues could be at play. Here’s a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and resolving common causes:

1. Check the Power Supply:
   • Ensure the power cord is securely connected to both the outlet and the computer. For desktops, check the power switch on the back of the computer. If the power supply is faulty, it may need replacement​​.
2. Try Windows Safe Mode:
   • Booting in Safe Mode starts your computer with minimal software and can bypass driver and software conflicts. Sometimes, simply starting in Safe Mode can resolve boot issues​​​​.
3. Battery Check for Laptops:
   • If using a laptop, a faulty battery or charger can cause boot issues. Test with an alternate charger and remove the battery to see if the hardware is the problem​​.
4. Unplug USB Devices:
   • Conflicts with USB devices can prevent booting. Unplug all USB devices and other peripherals, then try restarting the computer​​.
5. Turn Off Fast Boot in BIOS/UEFI:
   • Fast Boot can sometimes conflict with Windows updates. Access your BIOS/UEFI settings and toggle Fast Boot off​​.
6. No Bootable Device Issue:
   • If you receive a “no bootable device” message, check the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings. Ensure it’s set to boot from the correct hard drive. If the hard drive isn’t listed, it may have failed​​.
7. Windows Freezes or Crashes During Boot:
   • If Windows starts booting but fails partway through, try a Startup Repair operation using a Windows installation disc or recovery disk. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, consider reinstalling Windows or performing a refresh/reset​​.
8. Blue Screens or Freezes:
   • Hardware or software problems, like malware or faulty drivers, can cause crashes. Booting in safe mode and then uninstalling recent hardware drivers, performing a system restore, or scanning for malware might fix the issue. If not, reinstalling Windows or resetting the system may be necessary​​.
9. If the Computer Won’t Power On At All:
   • Check that it’s plugged into a power outlet and that the power connector isn’t loose. For desktops, ensure the power switch on the power supply is on. If there’s no power at all, the power supply might be dead or a power cable inside the case could be disconnected​​.

Conclusion:

In many cases, these steps can help revive a Windows 10 computer that won’t turn on. If the computer still fails to boot after these troubleshooting steps, it may indicate a more serious hardware issue, and professional technical support might be necessary.

FAQs:

1. What are common reasons for a Windows 10 computer not turning on?
   • Common reasons include power supply issues, battery problems (for laptops), USB conflicts, software or driver conflicts, BIOS/UEFI settings, and hardware failures like a dead hard drive.
2. How do I access Safe Mode or BIOS/UEFI settings?
   • Accessing Safe Mode or BIOS/UEFI settings varies by computer model. For most systems, pressing F2, Delete, or Escape during boot will access these settings. Check your computer’s manual for specific instructions.
3. What should I do if my computer shows a blue screen or freezes during boot?
   • Booting in Safe Mode and resolving software conflicts or hardware driver issues can often resolve these problems. If these steps fail, a Windows reinstallation or system reset might be required.

Eric Chan

Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com.  You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.

When I’m not writing about tech I’m playing with my dog or hanging out with my girlfriend.

Shoot me a message at ericchan@gadgetmates.com if you want to see a topic discussed or have a correction on something I’ve written.