Second monitor freezing

Eric 0 Reputation points
2026-08-21T19:55:22.3533333+00:00

Hello

I am having trouble recently with my laptop's second monitor. I connect it via HMDI cable and it displays as normal, but then just freezes. The laptop doesn't then recognise there being a second screen. My graphics drivers are up to date.

Windows 11.

Thanks in advance!

Eric

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Display and graphics
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2 answers

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  1. Ivan B 121.1K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-08-21T20:31:25.8633333+00:00

    Hi ,

    Search for msinfo32.exe in the search bar, take a screenshot, and post it here so we can see the correct laptop model or desktop configuration.

    Thanks

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  2. AI answer

    2026-08-21T19:55:38.0666667+00:00

    Try these steps in order:

    1. Press Windows logo key + Ctrl + Shift + B to reset the graphics driver. This can fix a display that freezes or stops responding.
    2. Restart the laptop: Start > Power > Restart. If needed, shut it down fully and turn it back on.
    3. Make sure Windows is still set to use the second display:
      • Press Windows logo key + P
      • Select Extend
    4. Check the physical connection:
      • Reseat the HDMI cable on both ends
      • Try a different HDMI cable
      • Test the monitor with another system if possible
    5. Disconnect accessories that can interfere, such as docks, dongles, or adapters, then test the monitor again.
    6. If the issue started after an update, roll back the display driver:
      • Search for Device Manager from the taskbar
      • Expand Display adapters
      • Right-click the display adapter > Properties > Driver tab > Roll Back Driver
      • If Roll Back Driver is unavailable, reinstall the display driver instead
    7. Reinstall the display driver if needed. Note: this may temporarily blank the display during the process.
      • Open Device Manager
      • Expand Display adapters
      • Right-click the display adapter > Uninstall device
      • Select Attempt to remove the driver for this device > Uninstall
      • Restart if prompted
      • Open Device Manager again
      • Right-click the display adapter > Update driver
      • Select Search automatically for updated driver software

    If video is specifically frozen on the second screen, disconnect and reconnect the display connection, then reconnect the second display.

    If none of these steps help, file the issue through Feedback Hub with the steps that reproduce the freeze.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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