I performed the last suggestion - searched Task Manager for explorer.exe (also looked for Windows Explorer), It was not there. Entered explorer.exe at services tab as instructed (simrick). Still...

Sign in screen is always visible on boot up (standard boot or safe mode). Safe mode scrolls (visible). All previous problems and attempted fixes happen (black screen with cursor) after signing in...

I did blind keyboard entry as above. It changed the monitor setup as evidenced by the visible cursor (one screen or both screens) but nothing else changed.
Is there a file showing for Fast Startup...

Have a Gateway SX2800-01 which has (had) Windows 7 Pro installed. Finally gave in to Window 10 upgrade prompting and said yes. Ten installed well to my surprise, it ran for several months. Then on...

Tried all options from previous "black screen" posts. Still black with cursor and notifications pop up and ctr alt del opens manager window and it is functional. Anything I can do from there? One...

Living in Fear: Updated to Ten (Gateway SX-2800), it worked for a month.
After an update came black screen with cursor. TenForum solution (3
shutdowns before full start) and restart fixed....