Windows 11 black screen after login, or a PowerShell window keeps popping up: what to do

A black screen after sign-in usually means Windows Explorer, the program that draws your desktop and taskbar, did not start. A PowerShell window popping up on its own is often a leftover startup task from an app or an update, but it can also be unwanted software, so it is worth checking.

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Steps

  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and choose Task Manager. If Task Manager opens, your computer is running and only the desktop is missing.
  2. In Task Manager, click Run new task, type explorer.exe, and press Enter. Your desktop and taskbar should come back.
  3. Still in Task Manager, open the Startup apps tab. Look for anything you do not recognize, especially entries that mention PowerShell, a script, or a strange name. Right-click it and choose Disable. Do not delete anything yet.
  4. Restart the computer from the Start menu. If the black screen comes back, hold Shift while you click Restart, then choose Troubleshoot, Advanced options, Startup Settings, Restart, and press 4 for Safe Mode.
  5. Once you are on the desktop, open Windows Security from the Start menu, go to Virus and threat protection, Scan options, and run a Full scan. Let it remove anything it finds.
  6. Open Settings, Windows Update, and install any updates waiting there, then restart. Many black screen problems are fixed by a pending display or system update.
  7. If you have a Dell, open the Dell SupportAssist or Dell Update app and install any driver updates, especially for graphics. Then restart once more.
  8. If someone on the phone asked you to install a program or let them connect to your computer before this started, disconnect from the internet and get help before you sign in to your bank or email.

Common questions

Is a PowerShell window popping up a virus?

Not always. Some apps and Windows updates run short PowerShell tasks at startup. But if it keeps appearing, has a strange name in Startup apps, or started after a pop-up or phone call, run a full Windows Security scan and get help checking it.

Will I lose my files if I fix the black screen?

No. Restarting Explorer, disabling startup items, Safe Mode and a virus scan do not delete your documents or photos.

What if Ctrl + Alt + Delete does nothing?

Hold the power button for 10 seconds to turn the computer off, wait a moment, and turn it back on. If it goes black again, use the Safe Mode step above.

Free human help is at capacity right now. If you want help while you fix this, Ellis, our AI assistant, can help you by phone now. The first 5 minutes are free when you call (928) 272-0355. If you want more time, phone help is $19 one time for up to 30 minutes, used over 14 days. No subscription. Ellis is an AI and can make mistakes.

Call Ellis (928) 272-0355 $19 phone help, up to 30 minutes

Refundable anytime: just ask with a reason at joe@adorellc.pro or text 928-272-0355.

Ellis is an AI tech support assistant from 5 Star Consultants, a division of Adore LLC. Privacy Terms