Search Support

Avoid support scams. We will never ask you to call or text a phone number or share personal information. Please report suspicious activity using the “Report Abuse” option.

Learn More

Display does not show when connected screen is off

  • 3 replies
  • 1 has this problem
  • 14 views
  • Last reply by FredMcD

more options

I realize this is a rather odd question, but is there a way to get Firefox to display, even when the monitor is not turned on?

I regularly remote into my computer when I am away. My issue only arises when the screen has been shut off. When I load Firefox, the browser loads, and I assume the webpages load as well. All I can see is a completely white screen. I can click and load things on the webpage (I assume) and I can close the browser by clicking in the top right corner, even though the entire Firefox window is blank.

The only way I have found to force Firefox to load is by starting the browser in safe mode, which presents its own problems.

This problem can also be reproduced if I am using my VR headset and load my desktop, without the TV screen I use as the monitor being turned on.

I would add a screenshot, but all it would show is a blank white screen.

I realize this is a rather odd question, but is there a way to get Firefox to display, even when the monitor is not turned on? I regularly remote into my computer when I am away. My issue only arises when the screen has been shut off. When I load Firefox, the browser loads, and I assume the webpages load as well. All I can see is a completely white screen. I can click and load things on the webpage (I assume) and I can close the browser by clicking in the top right corner, even though the entire Firefox window is blank. The only way I have found to force Firefox to load is by starting the browser in safe mode, which presents its own problems. This problem can also be reproduced if I am using my VR headset and load my desktop, without the TV screen I use as the monitor being turned on. I would add a screenshot, but all it would show is a blank white screen.

Chosen solution

What's your computer system and Firefox version?

You said there is no problem in Safe Mode. It could be the work of one of your add-ons, or it could be Hardware Acceleration. How to disable Hardware Acceleration {web link}

Type about:addons<enter> in the address bar to open your Add-ons Manager. Hot key; <Control> (Mac=<Command>) <Shift> A)

In the Add-ons Manager, on the left, select Extensions. Disable a few add-ons, then Restart Firefox.

Some added toolbar and anti-virus add-ons are known to cause Firefox issues. Disable All Of them.

If the problem continues, disable some more (restarting FF). Continue until the problem is gone. After, you know what group is causing the issue. Re-enable the last group ONE AT A TIME (restarting FF) until the problem returns.

Once you think you found the problem, disable that and re-enable all the others, then restart again. Let us know who the suspect is, detective.

Read this answer in context 👍 2

All Replies (3)

more options

Chosen Solution

What's your computer system and Firefox version?

You said there is no problem in Safe Mode. It could be the work of one of your add-ons, or it could be Hardware Acceleration. How to disable Hardware Acceleration {web link}

Type about:addons<enter> in the address bar to open your Add-ons Manager. Hot key; <Control> (Mac=<Command>) <Shift> A)

In the Add-ons Manager, on the left, select Extensions. Disable a few add-ons, then Restart Firefox.

Some added toolbar and anti-virus add-ons are known to cause Firefox issues. Disable All Of them.

If the problem continues, disable some more (restarting FF). Continue until the problem is gone. After, you know what group is causing the issue. Re-enable the last group ONE AT A TIME (restarting FF) until the problem returns.

Once you think you found the problem, disable that and re-enable all the others, then restart again. Let us know who the suspect is, detective.

more options

Thanks!

I I turned off all add-ons and no difference. The solution was disabling the hardware acceleration. My productivity thanks you... :)

more options

Glad to help. Safe Surfing.