How to Fix Splash Screen Issues on Windows 10
The splash screen is the first screen you see when launching an application or when Windows 10 is starting up. However, users often encounter issues where the splash screen hangs, freezes, or fails to appear altogether. In this guide, we'll explore the common causes of splash screen failures and provide detailed solutions.
1. Check for System Updates
One of the simplest ways to resolve splash screen issues is by ensuring that your system is up to date. Sometimes, missing updates or security patches can cause conflicts that affect how programs start up, including splash screens.
Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
Navigate to Update & Security and click on Windows Update.
Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
After the updates are installed, restart your PC and check if the splash screen issue persists.
2. Disable Fast Startup
Fast Startup is a feature in Windows 10 designed to speed up boot times, but it can sometimes cause issues with the splash screen, especially when launching certain applications or when Windows is booting up. Disabling Fast Startup may help resolve this problem.
Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, and type powercfg.cpl then press Enter.
Click on Choose what the power buttons do from the left sidebar.
Click Change settings that are currently unavailable to enable the grayed-out options.
Scroll down and uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
Click Save changes and restart your computer.
3. Check for Software Conflicts
In some cases, third-party software can interfere with the splash screen, particularly if the software is set to launch during startup. Programs such as antivirus tools, system optimization software, or background applications can prevent the splash screen from displaying correctly.
Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
Go to the Startup tab to view a list of all programs that launch at startup.
Disable unnecessary startup programs by right-clicking and selecting Disable.
Restart your computer and check if the splash screen issue is resolved.
4. Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers
The graphics drivers on your computer are responsible for rendering visual elements during startup. If the graphics drivers are outdated or incompatible with your version of Windows, it can prevent the splash screen from displaying correctly. You can use Driver Sentry to automatically detect, update, and fix problematic drivers, ensuring that your system's graphics drivers are working properly.
Click the button below to download and install Driver Sentry.
Open Driver Sentry, and click Scan on the main interface. The software will automatically scan your system for outdated, missing, or problematic drivers.
Once the scan is complete, if the graphics driver needs updating, click Upgrade to update the graphics driver.
After the update is complete, reboot your computer to ensure the new graphics driver loads correctly.
5. Adjust Compatibility Settings
If you're experiencing splash screen issues with a specific application, it may be a compatibility problem, especially if the program was designed for an earlier version of Windows. Running the application in compatibility mode might help resolve the issue.
Right-click on the program's shortcut or executable file and select Properties.
Go to the Compatibility tab.
Check the box next to Run this program in compatibility mode for and select an earlier version of Windows (e.g., Windows 7 or Windows 8).
Click Apply, then OK to save the changes.
Try launching the program again to see if the splash screen appears correctly.
Running the application in compatibility mode ensures that the program functions as if it's being run on a previous version of Windows, potentially solving issues with the splash screen.
6. Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps eliminate software conflicts that might be causing splash screen problems. This process disables non-essential startup items and services to ensure that only essential system processes are running.
Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type msconfig, and press Enter.
In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
Check the box next to Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
In Task Manager, disable all non-essential startup programs by right-clicking and selecting Disable.
Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
Restart your computer and check if the splash screen issue is resolved.
The splash screen issue in Windows 10 can be caused by various factors. By following the methods above, you will effectively resolve the problem and use your programs smoothly. It is recommended to regularly use Driver Sentry to update your computer's drivers to maintain optimal performance.
See also:
How to Fix Windows kernel32.dll Error
Fix Windows Driver Foundation Using High CPU
