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Likely fix

Fix: Monitor says no signal after sleep

A monitor that loses signal after sleep usually points to a wake issue, graphics driver problem, dock problem, or power saving setting.

Quick answer

Wake the computer fully, reconnect the cable, restart the PC, then update graphics drivers and check sleep/display power settings.

Important warning

Do not hold the power button unless the computer is completely stuck, because that forces a hard shutdown.

Try this

  1. 1 Press the keyboard and mouse to wake the computer.
  2. 2 Press the computer power button once briefly if it is still asleep.
  3. 3 Turn the monitor off and on.
  4. 4 Unplug and reconnect the video cable.
  5. 5 Restart the computer.
  6. 6 Install graphics driver updates.
  7. 7 If using a USB-C dock, unplug the dock from power and reconnect it.
  8. 8 Check display sleep and power settings.

Common causes

Computer did not wake fully from sleep.

Graphics driver did not resume video output.

Dock or hub failed to wake.

Monitor input did not switch back correctly.

Power saving settings are too aggressive.

What to check next

  • Check whether the computer is awake by listening for fans or keyboard lights.
  • Check whether another monitor wakes normally.
  • Check whether the issue happens only through a dock.
  • Check for graphics driver updates.
  • Check power and sleep settings.

FAQ

Why does my monitor say no signal after sleep?

The computer, graphics driver, monitor, or dock may fail to resume video output after sleep.

Can a dock cause no signal after sleep?

Yes. USB-C docks and hubs can sometimes fail to wake properly and need to be unplugged and reconnected.

Should I update graphics drivers?

Yes. Sleep and wake display problems are often improved by graphics driver updates.

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