Computer won't turn on? Here's what to do | Asurion (2024)

You sit down at your computer to start your workday, butwhenyou try to turn it on, all you see is a blank screen.We'veall been there—andwe've allexperienced that sinking feeling you get when your tech doesn't work like it should.

At Asurion,our experts help millions of customers resolve issues like this every day—on all their favorite devices—fromtroubleshooting a frozen computertoremoving a virus.When tech breaks, we fix it. Here's our guide on how to fix aWindows™desktopcomputer that won't turn on or restart.

How to fix a PC that won't turn on

There are many reasons why yourcomputer won't turn on—somebasic,some complex. Here are some methods to tryto resolve the problem.

Try a different power source

If yourcomputer won't bootup, the first thing to do ismake sure your PC is plugged in and the power switch is turned on. If it is anditstill won't start, try pluggingyour computer into a different outlet.Ifyou're using a power strip or surge protector, plug it directly into the wall instead. And if your outlet is connected to a light switch, make sure that switch is on.

Check your monitor connection

If you hear your computer starting but don't see anythingon your monitor, it could be an issue with your display. Make sureyour monitor is plugged in, receiving power,and turnedon. Then check that the cord connecting your PC and monitor is firmly attached, not damaged, and plugged into the correct input.If that doesn't work, try connecting your computer to another display, like a different monitor or a TV—your original monitor may be broken.

Disconnect your devices

If you'restillasking yourself, “Why won't my PC turn on?”itcould beinterference from anotherproduct. Unplug devices like printers, webcams, and external hard drives from your PC, thenstartit with only the monitor, keyboard, and mouse connected.

Listen for beeps

Some computersmake noisewhen theystartup—one beep typically means the machineisworking as it should. But if you hear a long tone or a series of beeps,similar toMorse code, it likely means something is wrong. Check your PC's manual or go to the manufacturer's website to see what the soundsmean.

Device won't power on? We can help

See Also

Selected Boot Device Failed Windows 10? Fix It Now

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Startyour PC in safe mode

If your computer turns on but won't load Windows™, you can trystartingitin safe mode. This only loads a limited number of programs, making it easier to identify your problem.

To use safe mode in Windows 10, you need to enter the Windows Recovery Environment,acompanion operating system thatallows you to troubleshoot common startup issues. This can be a bit tricky, so follow these steps closely:

1. Hold down the power button for 10 seconds to turn off your computer.
2. Press the power button again to turn it on.
3. When you see Windows trying to start, hold down the power button until your device turns off.
4. Press the power button again to turn it on.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4.Allow your device to fully restart and you will be in the Windows Recovery Environment.
6. On the Choose an option screen, selectTroubleshoot>Advanced options>Startup Settings>Restart.
7. Once your computer restarts, you'll see a list of options. SelectSafe Mode with Networking.
8. When you are in Windows, try uninstalling any apps or programs you recently added or updated to see if they are causing the issue.

Restore your computer toprevioussettings

If you haverestorepoints set up on your PC, you may be able to roll back your computer's settingsto atimebefore your issuesstarted. Here's how:

1. Repeat steps 1–6 from above to enter the Windows Recovery Environment.
2. On the Choose an option screen, selectTroubleshoot>Advanced options>System Restore.
3. Select a restore point from a time when your PC was working properly and clickRestore.

What to do if yourcomputer won't restart

Sometimes your PC may be working fine, but when you go to restart it, it gets hung up—this has been an issue for some Windows 10 users. But just like acomputer that won't turn on, there are steps you can take when yourPC won't restart.

Check for unresponsive apps

ThereasonwhyWindows 10 won't restartcould have to do with apps that aren't functioning properly. To check, pressCtrl+Shift+Escon your keyboard to open Task Manager. If you see an app that's unresponsive, right-click it and selectEnd task, then try to restart your computer. If the same apps frequently cause problems, consider uninstallingand then reinstallingthem.

Unplug USB devices

As mentioned earlier, devices plugged into your computer's USB ports can interfere with the startup process. Disconnect everything from your PC that isn't essential,thentry torestart it.

Force a restart

If the usual computer repair restart methods aren't working, you can force your computer to restart by holding down the power button until it shuts down, then pushing it again tostartyour machine. This should work. But if it returns you to the same shutdown screen, tryunpluggingthe power cord forat least 10seconds, plugging it back in, and repeating the restart process.

Restore your PC toprevious settings

If your computer failing to restart is a persistent issue, youcantry restartingit insafemodeand rolling back your computer's settingsto before you had issues.You can follow the same steps described above.