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How to Fix Ubuntu 20.04 Logout Black Screen Problem

By: Author Alex Lim

Posted on

Categories Linux

Resolve the frustrating issue of Ubuntu 20.04 logging out to a black screen, specifically on systems with Nvidia GPUs. Follow our guide for a step-by-step solution.

Experiencing a blank screen after logging out of Ubuntu 20.04 can be disruptive and perplexing, especially when it only affects certain machines with identical setups. This issue commonly arises on systems utilizing Nvidia GPUs. Fortunately, a solution exists to restore the expected login screen behavior.

Understanding the Problem

The root cause lies within the interaction between the display manager and the Nvidia graphics drivers. Upon logout, the display manager fails to correctly switch back to the login screen, resulting in the observed black screen.

Implementing the Solution

Step 1: Identifying the Display Manager

Open a terminal window. Execute the following command: cat /etc/X11/default-display-manager

This command outputs the path of the active display manager, which is typically /usr/sbin/gdm3 for the GNOME Display Manager (GDM3).

Step 2: Modifying Display Manager Configuration

  1. Open the display manager configuration file using a text editor with root privileges. For GDM3, the command is: sudo nano /etc/gdm3/custom.conf
  2. Locate the [daemon] section within the file.
  3. Uncomment the line #WaylandEnable=false by removing the # symbol. The resulting line should appear as: WaylandEnable=false
  4. Save the changes and exit the text editor.

How to Fix Ubuntu 20.04 Logout Black Screen Problem

Step 3: Restarting the Display Manager

Execute the appropriate command to restart the display manager based on the identified type. For GDM3: sudo systemctl restart gdm3

Additional Considerations

  • If the issue persists after following these steps, consider exploring alternative display managers such as LightDM or SDDM.
  • Ensure your Nvidia graphics drivers are up-to-date.
  • Consult the official Ubuntu documentation and community forums for further troubleshooting assistance.

Conclusion

By following this guide, you should successfully resolve the Ubuntu 20.04 logout black screen issue on machines with Nvidia GPUs. This solution ensures a smooth and uninterrupted user experience.