Screen Flickering- tried to solve and encountered another issue

Hi

Thanks for your reply.

Given the steps you've already taken and the persistence of the issue, it seems you're dealing with a rather stubborn problem. Since you've already tried uninstalling and reinstalling display drivers, checked connections, and even considered hardware issues without success, the flickering problem remains unresolved. Before proceeding with a PC reset or reinstallation, which are more drastic measures, let's consider a few more steps that might help:

Check for Interference from Applications

Sometimes, specific applications can cause screen flickering. This is especially true for applications that access your display settings or are not fully compatible with your Windows version.

• Boot into Safe Mode (without networking this time) and observe if the flickering stops. If it does, it's likely a software conflict. Gradually start applications one by one in a normal boot to isolate the problematic application.

Inspect for Physical Display Issues

Given that you've already checked the connections and assumed they're secure, it might be worth considering if the display itself is failing.

• If possible, connect your computer to another monitor or TV and check if the flickering persists. This could help isolate the issue to either the display or the computer.

Check Power Supply

Inconsistent power supply or issues with the power adapter (if using a laptop) can sometimes cause flickering. If you have an alternate compatible power supply or adapter, try using it to see if the issue persists.

Consider System Restore

Before opting for a reset, consider using System Restore to return your computer to a previous state where the issue wasn't present. This can sometimes resolve issues without the need for a full reset.

• Search for "Create a restore point" in the Start menu, go to the System Properties window, and click on "System Restore." Choose a restore point from before the flickering started.

Windows Reset or Reinstallation

If none of the above steps work and you're considering a reset or reinstallation:

• Reset: Windows 11 offers a reset feature that reinstalls Windows while giving you the option to keep your files. Go to Settings > System > Recovery and choose "Reset this PC." This can sometimes resolve issues without the downsides of a clean install.
• Clean Install: If a reset doesn't work or you prefer starting fresh, a clean installation can be more effective. Ensure you back up all important data first. A slow-running OS post-install, like in your previous experience, often relates to drivers or software compatibility issues, which could be addressed by ensuring all drivers are up to date after the installation.

I’ve tried to use safe mode with networking to try find something. I’ve tried deleting display and audio drivers from control panel>uninstall and then restarted. Still flickering. Went back into safe mode and installed latest drivers from nvidia website and restarted. Still flickering. I haven’t shut down and plugged in display cables again as I doubt that’s the issue, although I have felt the connections and they do feel secure. Would it just be better to reset the pc? I don’t want to do that as I’ve got bad experiences with resetting as it caused the OS to run very slow after resetting (on another old pc) and same with fresh install using a installation media

Hi

Welcome to Microsoft community.

It sounds like you're dealing with a complex issue that involves both screen flickering and problems accessing vital Windows components like the Device Manager. Let's tackle this step-by-step to try to resolve or at least diagnose the issues further.

Screen flickering can be caused by various factors including driver issues, hardware problems, or even software conflicts.

1. Safe Mode with Networking: Since you've already tried Safe Mode, consider booting into Safe Mode with Networking this time. This mode will allow you to access the internet, which can be useful for downloading drivers or searching for solutions online. To do this, restart your computer and repeatedly press the F8 key (or Shift + F8 on some systems) before the Windows logo appears. Choose "Safe Mode with Networking" from the list of options.
2. Check for Hardware Issues: Sometimes, screen flickering can be due to a loose connection. If you’re comfortable with it, and if it's a desktop, check the connection between your monitor and computer. If it’s a laptop, try connecting an external monitor to see if the flickering persists there. This can help you determine if it’s a screen issue or a deeper hardware problem.
3. Update/Reinstall Display Drivers in Safe Mode: Since you encountered issues with Device Manager, let's try another approach. You can download display drivers directly from the manufacturer's website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) on another device if necessary, transfer them via a USB drive, and install them in Safe Mode with Networking.

The MMC (Microsoft Management Console) error and Device Manager not loading issue could be indicative of system file corruption or other Windows issues.

1. System File Checker (SFC): Run the System File Checker to repair corrupted Windows files. To do this, open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for it in the Start menu, right-clicking, and selecting "Run as administrator." Then, enter the following command and press Enter: . This process can take some time.sfc /scannow
2. DISM Tool: If SFC doesn’t fix the issue, you can use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. Open an elevated Command Prompt as described above and enter the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
   • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
   • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
   • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
3. Check for Windows Updates: In Safe Mode with Networking, check for any pending Windows updates that might resolve the issue. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

If none of the above steps work, you may need to consider more drastic measures:

• Restore from a System Restore Point: If you have a system restore point created before the issues began, you can try restoring to that point. Search for "Create a restore point" in the Start menu, go to the System Properties window, and click on "System Restore."
• Windows Reset or Reinstallation: As a last resort, and if the issue severely impacts your usage, consider resetting Windows or performing a clean installation. This can resolve deep-seated software issues but will remove your installed applications and may lead to data loss if you haven't backed up your files.

If the screen flickering seems to be a hardware issue (e.g., it persists on an external monitor), it may be best to consult a professional technician.

Please feel free to let me know how it goes. 

Best regards

Derrick Qian | Microsoft Community Support Specialist