How to Fix Windows 10 Won't Turn On: A Quick Guide

When your Windows 10 PC refuses to turn on, it can be a frustrating experience, leaving you unable to access your files or complete your work. This issue can arise from various causes, such as hardware malfunctions, power supply problems, or software conflicts.

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to diagnose and fix the problem. This guide will walk you through the process of troubleshooting and resolving the issue when Windows 10 won't turn on.

What Can I Do If Windows 10 Is Not Turning On?​

1. Check the Power Supply​

The first step is to ensure that your PC is receiving power. A faulty power supply is often the root cause of a computer not turning on.

1. Check Power Connections:
   • Ensure that the power cable is securely connected to both the PC and the power outlet.
   • If you're using a power strip or surge protector, make sure it’s turned on and functioning correctly.
2. Test the Outlet:
   • Plug another device into the same outlet to verify that the outlet is working.
   • Try plugging your PC directly into a different outlet to rule out issues with the power source.
3. Inspect the Power Cable:
   • Check the power cable for any visible damage. If the cable appears frayed or damaged, try using a different cable.

If the power supply is not the issue, move on to the next troubleshooting steps.

2. Check for Display Issues​

Sometimes, the computer is on, but the screen remains blank, leading to the impression that the PC won't turn on.

1. Check Monitor Connections:
   • Ensure that the monitor's power cable and video cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, etc.) are securely connected to the monitor and the PC.
2. Switch Monitors:
   • If possible, connect your PC to a different monitor to see if the issue is with the display.
3. Check the Monitor Power:
   • Make sure the monitor is turned on and set to the correct input source.

If your monitor is functioning correctly, but your PC still won't start, proceed to the next steps.

3. Perform a Power Drain​

A power drain can help reset the internal components and resolve startup issues.

1. Disconnect All Power Sources:
   • Unplug the power cable from the PC.
   • If you are using a laptop, remove the battery if possible.
2. Hold the Power Button:
   • Press and hold the power button on your PC for 20-30 seconds. This drains any residual electrical charge from the components.
3. Reconnect the Power:
   • Plug the power cable back into the PC and reinsert the battery if you removed it.
   • Try turning on your PC again.

Performing a power drain can often resolve issues caused by electrical glitches.

4. Check for Hardware Issues​

If your PC won't turn on, it could be due to a hardware failure.

1. Check for Loose Components:
   • If you're comfortable opening your PC case, check for loose or improperly seated components, such as RAM sticks, graphics cards, and power connectors.
   • Ensure that all cables inside the PC are securely connected.
2. Listen for Beep Codes:
   • Some motherboards emit beep codes when there is a hardware issue. Listen for any beeping sounds when you try to turn on your PC.
   • Refer to your motherboard’s manual to interpret these codes.
3. Test with Minimal Hardware:
   • Disconnect non-essential peripherals and internal components (such as additional hard drives) and try booting with just the CPU, one stick of RAM, and the primary storage drive connected.

Testing for hardware issues can help determine if a specific component is causing the startup problem.

5. Boot in Safe Mode​

If your PC powers on but doesn't boot into Windows, you may need to try starting in Safe Mode, which loads a minimal set of drivers and can help identify software conflicts.

1. Access Safe Mode:
   • Turn on your PC and immediately press F8 (or Shift + F8 on some systems) repeatedly to access the Advanced Boot Options menu.
   • Select Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking from the menu.
2. Troubleshoot in Safe Mode:
   • Once in Safe Mode, you can uninstall recently installed software, roll back drivers, or run a system scan to identify the issue.

Booting in Safe Mode can help you determine if a software conflict is preventing Windows from starting normally.

6. Perform a clean boot of the system​

1. Press and hold the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut.
2. Type in the Run window msconfig. Press Enter or click OK to run it.
   
3. Left-click on the Services tab now. Check the box next to Hide all Microsoft Services. Left-click on Disable all button.
   
4. Go to the Startup tab and click on Open Task Manager.
5. A list of all startup applications will now appear. Select the first entry on the list, right-click it and choose Disable from the menu. Repeat this step for all entries on the list.
   
6. After you’re done, close Task Manager, go back to System Configuration window and click on Apply and OK to save changes.
   
7. Reboot the Windows 10 device and see if it boots normally.

If the System Restore did not work for you, try doing a clean boot of the system by following the steps above. If your Windows 10 loads up, then one of the apps you disabled is causing your system to crash.

7. Check for Corrupted System Files​

Corrupted system files can prevent Windows from starting. The System File Checker (SFC) tool can help repair these files.

1. Access Command Prompt:
   • Boot into the Advanced Startup Options menu as described in the previous section.
   • Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
2. Run SFC Command:
   • In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
   • The tool will scan for and attempt to repair any corrupted system files.

Repairing corrupted system files can resolve startup issues caused by damaged Windows components.

8. Reset or Reinstall Windows 10​

If none of the above methods work, resetting or reinstalling Windows 10 might be necessary.

1. Backup Your Data:
   • If possible, boot your system using a Windows installation media and back up your important files.
2. Reset Windows 10:
   • Boot into the Advanced Startup Options menu.
   • Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
   • Choose Keep my files or Remove everything based on your preference, and follow the on-screen instructions.

Resetting or reinstalling Windows 10 can resolve persistent software issues that prevent your system from starting.

When Windows 10 won't turn on, it can be a daunting problem, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can often identify and resolve the issue.

Whether it's a power supply problem, display issue, or corrupted system files, following this guide can help you get your system up and running again. If none of the solutions work, it may indicate a more serious hardware failure, and you should consider seeking professional assistance.