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Published on: 27.11.2023 | updated on: 06.04.2024
Laptops have drastically made our lives easier. Whether you use a laptop for work or entertainment, its versatility to carry it anywhere at any time means it's a reliable companion. However, like any other technical device, laptops are prone to problems too, and having your laptop give up on you and not start can be a scary scenario. But don’t worry, you can fix this issue by following simple steps, which we’ll discuss in this article.
In this article, we have compiled the reasons why your computer won’t turn on, such as battery issues, an issue with the screen panel, or a fault in your graphics card. We’ll also talk about possible solutions to fix these issues, such as replacing the battery or updating the drivers.
If you are struggling to answer this question, “Why won’t my computer turn on?”, then see below some possible causes:
You can turn on your laptop in various ways depending on the root cause of the issue. Replacing the battery, resetting drivers, or updating BIOS are some possible solutions to fix the laptop that won’t turn on.
Here is what to do if your laptop won’t turn on:
If your laptop screen is failing to turn on, here are some reasons why it might be happening and what to do about it;
● There might be a problem with the battery or the start button.
● The computer screen may not be turning on due to an issue with the screen panel.
● There may be an issue with the graphics card or the memory card.
● Inspect the battery and get it replaced if it is faulty.
● Boot in safe mode if possible and update the graphic cards of your laptop.
● In case of internal damage, you might have to get your laptop checked by a professional.
● Periodically clean the laptop vents and fans to prevent overheating.
● Avoid dropping your laptop and handle it with care.
● Keep your laptop’s OS and drivers updated.
Here is why your laptop might not be turning on even when it is plugged in and what to do about it;
● There may be a problem with the battery or the power adapter
● An internal hardware component like the memory or the motherboard has failed.
● A software issue is causing the laptop to not start.
● Remove the battery and try using the power adaptor only.
● Do a hard reboot by pressing and holding the power button for about 10 to 15 seconds.
● In the case of internal hardware or software, get the device checked by a professional.
● Keep your laptop software updated.
● Use authentic charging accessories only.
● Do not overcharge the battery, and do not let it entirely deplete either.
If your laptop is not turning on but the power button is on, here are some reasons why and what to do about it;
● The computer screen is faulty and preventing it from turning on.
● There might be an issue with the motherboard or RAM.
● The graphics drivers have been corrupted.
● Perform a hard reset by pressing and holding the power button for 30 seconds. Reconnect again, and try to power on.
● To rule out the screen damage issues, connect the laptop to an external monitor.
● Boot in safe mode. You can do it by restarting the laptop and then entering Safe Mode to troubleshoot any driver or software issue.
● If nothing else works, contact a repair professional in your area.
● Keep your operating system and drivers up to date.
● Keep the laptop ventilated properly to avoid overheating to prevent hardware damage.
● Avoid putting pressure on the laptop screen.
Here are some reasons why your laptop screen is black and won’t turn on and how to fix it;
● There is an issue with the graphics/video card.
● A loose or faulty connection between the motherboard and display can turn the screen black.
● A broken backlight or faulty inverter board in the laptop.
● Reset graphics card or update graphics drivers. You can reset easily by using the keys Win + Ctrl + Shift + B.
● Get the broken backlight/inverter board replaced if that is causing the issue.
● If nothing helps, contact any nearby Computer repair store for a proper diagnosis of the issue.
● Keep drivers and operating system updated.
● Don't apply pressure on the screen or kick port areas.
● Don't expose your computer to physical impacts or liquid spills.
Although quite unusual, here is why your computer might suddenly turn off and turn back on and how to fix it;
● A low battery might not have enough power to turn on after a sudden loss of power.
● The laptop might turn off due to failed hardware.
● There is a software glitch that is forcing the laptop to turn off suddenly.
● Try starting in safe mode to troubleshoot software issues.
● Update BIOS, and drivers as it may help with the issue.
● Test with a different charger in case of a faulty power supply.
● Visit a professional technician if the problem persists.
● Have regular malware/virus scans and keep software updated.
● Don't force start repeatedly after unexpected shutdowns.
Here is why your laptop won’t turn on but the power light is on and how you can fix it;
● The faulty power button does not signal to turn on properly.
● Graphics/video card issue preventing display output.
● RAM or motherboard failure freezing the boot process.
● Update graphics drivers, as that usually fixes the issue.
● Boot into Safe Mode (pressing F8 or Shift+F8 on startup) to diagnose driver or software-related issues.
● Have RAM, power button, and other parts tested by a Laptop repair store.
● Keep your Windows 10 updated with all the latest updates and security patches.
● Use the laptop on hard, flat surfaces to ensure proper ventilation to avoid overheating.
Here is why your Windows laptop might not turn on and what you can do to fix this problem;
● There is a faulty power button preventing the laptop from turning on.
● There is an issue with the graphics card.
● The screen panel is damaged, due to which the screen is failing to start.
● The laptop has overheated due to obstruction in airflow.
● Reinstall the graphic driver if there is an issue with it..
● Let the device cool down and put it away from heat,
● In case of visible damage to the screen or power button, get it replaced from a reliable repair store.
● Let the laptop cool down by clearing any obstruction that might be preventing it from turning on.
● Monitor vents for blockages and regularly clean dust.
● Use your computer on hard, heat-resistant surfaces.
● Install Windows and security updates timely.
● Avoid damage to ports/power buttons, and don't force power.
● Take care of the battery usage and charging cycles.
Dell laptops may not turn on due to problems with the battery, internal components, or the screen.
You can restart a Dell laptop by simply holding the power button for 15-30 seconds after removing the battery. This will drain the residual battery. Now connect the battery and the adaptor and restart.
HP may fail to turn on due to issues such as a damaged screen or a fried graphics card. Sometimes, software glitches or memory issues can also cause the device to not turn on.
You can restart your device by pressing and holding the power button for 15 seconds. Then press the Esc key or the F10 key to enter BIOS settings. Now click on restore and press enter. Restart your laptop now.
There are multiple reasons why your Lenovo laptop might not turn on. The most common reasons are internal damage or software glitches.
Remove the battery from the device, and unplug the AC adaptor. Now press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to drain the battery. Now insert the battery, connect to AC power, and hit the power button. If the laptop still does not turn on, you may need to boot into BIOS or Safe Mode.
Mac laptop may not turn on if there is damage to its internal components or the screen panel is damaged. Other reasons could include a faulty battery or charging connector.
Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds, then press and release it normally.
Asus laptop may not turn on if it encounters damage to the battery or the internal components.
Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to shut down the system. Disconnect the AC adaptor. Now press the power button for 30 seconds to drain any leftover power. Now plug the laptop back in, then try pressing the power button to restart it
There might be a problem with the battery or the screen. If both are fine, then it must be due to a faulty screen panel or damaged graphics card.
First, remove the battery. Then, press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to drain residual power. Put the battery back in and plug the charger. Press the power button again to attempt to restart the laptop. If it still doesn't turn on, you may need to try repair options.
Your gateway laptop may fail to turn on due to damage to either the hardware or the battery.
Remove the battery, then press and hold the power button for 30 seconds to drain any leftover power. Replace the battery and plug it in without turning it on. Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to do a hard reset.
Yes, a laptop can become too dead to turn on if the battery is fully drained and unable to absorb enough charge to power the system even when plugged in.
The main signs of a dead laptop include an unlit power button, no response at all when pressing the power button, and failure to turn on even when plugged in to charge for an extended period.
To dispose of the laptop, take it to certified electronics recycling facilities or check manufacturer take-back programs.
Remove and reseat the laptop's battery and AC adapter. Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to drain power. Enter BIOS/UEFI setup and attempt restarting from there.
Unplug the power source. Then, press and hold the power button for about 30 seconds. Reconnect the power and try turning it on again.
Press and hold the power button until it turns off fully. Then press and hold the power and F8 buttons together until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears. Use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode and press Enter.
Here is how you can prevent the issue of a laptop that won’t turn on:
Laptops failing to turn on can be frustrating, but the issue typically stems from a few common causes like battery, screen, power button, or internal component failures. With proper care and maintenance, most laptop startup issues can be prevented or fixed by users at home without needing a full replacement. By following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, simple startup issues can be easily resolved. However, in case of hardware-related problems, taking the device to a professional repair shop is the only best solution.
Tech Writer | Photographer
LinkedIn: Madiha Khadim
Madi is a dynamic tech writer with a passion for simplifying complex concepts. Her expertise lies in creating clear and concise guides, blogs, manuals, and tutorials that empower users to navigate the technological landscape with ease. Throughout her career, Madi has worked with numerous leading tech companies, collaborating with engineers, developers, designers and marketers to create user manuals, FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and tech articles, on the websites such as "Technology Castle" and "Bilzimo". She can transform intricate technical jargon into user-friendly language, empowering users to understand and utilize products effectively.
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