If you’ve been dealing with a flickering screen on your Windows 11 PC, don’t worry—it’s a common issue. This guide will take you through several steps to diagnose and fix the problem. Usually, the flickering comes from incompatible apps or display drivers. By following these steps, you will identify the culprit and resolve the issue, getting your computer back to a smooth display.
How to Fix Flickering Screen on Windows 11
Here are the steps you need to tackle the flickering screen problem. They will help you find the root cause of your screen’s flicker and fix it.
Step 1: Check Task Manager
Open Task Manager. If it doesn’t flicker, the issue is with an app. If it does, the problem is with your drivers.
To open Task Manager, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Once open, observe if the Task Manager itself is flickering. If only the background flickers, you may have a driver problem. However, if both flicker, it’s likely an app causing the trouble.
Step 2: Update Display Drivers
Update your drivers through Device Manager to ensure they are not the problem.
Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager. Double-click on Display adapters, right-click your graphics driver, and choose Update driver. Follow the prompts to search for updates automatically. An outdated driver can easily be the source of your flickering woes.
Step 3: Uninstall Incompatible Apps
Identify and uninstall any apps installed around when the flickering started.
Head to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Look for recently installed apps and click Uninstall. Apps like Norton Antivirus or outdated versions of iCloud could cause issues. Removing them might stop the flickering.
Step 4: Adjust Display Refresh Rate
Change your monitor’s refresh rate to a compatible setting in the Display settings.
Go to Settings > System > Display > Advanced display. Here, choose a different refresh rate from the dropdown menu. The refresh rate should match your monitor’s capability to prevent flickering.
Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot
Conduct a clean boot to determine if background processes are causing the flicker.
Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter. In the System Configuration window, click on the Services tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services,” and click Disable all. Then, go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager. Disable all startup items and restart your computer. This method helps you identify if background services are at fault.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Windows 11 screen should stop flickering. You can now enjoy a stable viewing experience without the annoying screen interruptions.
Tips for Fixing Flickering Screen on Windows 11
- Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date, as updates can resolve bugs.
- Use the manufacturer’s website to get the latest drivers if automatic updates don’t work.
- Avoid running too many programs at startup to reduce strain on your system.
- Monitor your system temperature; overheating can sometimes cause screen flicker.
- Perform regular scans for malware, which can sometimes cause display issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my screen flicker on Windows 11?
Screen flicker can be due to incompatible apps, outdated display drivers, or incorrect refresh rates.
How can I tell if an app is causing the flicker?
Open Task Manager. If it flickers, it’s likely a driver issue. If not, an app might be the cause.
What if updating my drivers doesn’t fix the problem?
Try uninstalling recently installed apps or adjusting your display refresh rate.
Can flickering damage my display?
While flickering is mostly a software issue, prolonged exposure might strain your eyes.
Is it safe to perform a clean boot?
Yes, a clean boot is safe and helps diagnose the cause of the flickering.
Summary
- Check Task Manager to identify the issue source.
- Update display drivers.
- Uninstall incompatible apps.
- Adjust the display refresh rate.
- Perform a clean boot for further diagnosis.
Conclusion
Dealing with a flickering screen on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but understanding the root of the problem makes it easier to fix. Whether it’s a troublesome app, outdated driver, or mismatched refresh rate, identifying the cause is half the battle. By following these steps, you’re on a path to a stable, flicker-free experience.
Remember, technology can sometimes act like a finicky car engine—it needs a little tinkering to run smoothly. Keeping your system updated and regularly checking for software conflicts can prevent future issues. If the problem persists, consider seeking professional help to ensure no underlying hardware issues.
Gaining control over your flickering screen isn’t just about restoring normalcy, it’s about empowering yourself to tackle tech issues head-on. With these tools and tips, you’re equipped to handle flickering and keep your Windows 11 system running smoothly. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who might be wrestling with the same problem.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.