My desktop PC runs Windows 11, and after allowing a Windows update to install and restart, it stopped displaying anything on my monitor. I had a bootable Nobara Linux USB plugged in because I was preparing for a dual-boot setup, but I had not changed any BIOS settings yet. Since the restart, the monitor shows no signal at all—not even the manufacturer logo or BIOS screen. I tried a different HDMI cable, fully disconnected the computer and its peripherals for about 10 minutes, reconnected everything, and tested the PC on a TV, but none of that produced a display. I also tried repeatedly pressing Delete to enter the BIOS without success. Could the Linux USB have caused this, or is it more likely that the computer is failing before it reaches POST?
1 Answer
If there is no image from the moment the computer powers on, including no logo or BIOS screen, Windows is probably not the main issue. Try booting from the Linux USB anyway, but since you never configured USB boot priority, it may not start automatically. If the USB also gives you no display, focus on hardware: check the graphics card, its power connectors, different video outputs, memory seating, and any motherboard diagnostic lights or beep codes. A failing GPU, cable, port, or power connection could all cause this.
I hadn't reached the BIOS yet to set the USB as the first boot device. I was going to do that after finishing something in Windows, so the USB probably isn't being used during startup.