Connect and power on the display, then open Settings > System > Display and choose Detect under Multiple displays. If it remains missing, check the cable, input, and manufacturer guidance before changing drivers.
1
Prepare and identify the exact scope
Save open work, identify every display and cable type, and note whether the monitor shows No signal, remains black, or never appears in Display settings. This separates power, input, connection, and Windows detection faults.
2
Check the physical connection
Confirm the second display is powered on, connected to the PC, and set to the input used by its cable.
3
Open Multiple displays
Open Settings > System > Display and expand Multiple displays.
4
Run Detect and choose the layout
Select Detect, then choose the available extend, duplicate, or second-screen option.
After Detect, select the numbered display, choose Extend or Duplicate deliberately, then use Identify to confirm the on-screen numbers match the physical arrangement. Check resolution and refresh rate only from values Windows offers.
6
Understand limits and consequences
Adapters, docks, USB-C ports, and cables do not all support video or the required resolution. A working power connection through USB-C does not prove that the same port or cable carries DisplayPort video.
7
Use the safest supported follow-up
Test a known-good cable, supported port, and direct connection one at a time. If another computer also cannot use the monitor, follow the display maker's input, firmware, and service guidance rather than repeatedly changing Windows drivers.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
If Windows sees the monitor but it stays blank, use Win+P to select Extend, verify the correct input, and reduce to a supported resolution. If it never appears, record the PC, GPU, dock, cable, and monitor models before contacting their manufacturers.
ⓘ Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.
