It will only display on screen if the computer is capable of booting this far. If the POST detects an error before this point, a beep code or POST code will be generated instead. POST error messages are usually fairly descriptive and should give you enough information to begin troubleshooting whatever problem the POST found.

Resources on POST Errors

If you’re seeing POST error messages, then the problem is very likely related to some sort of hardware malfunction. A stop at this step in the boot-up process means the computer hasn’t even loaded the operating system, so POST errors aren’t related to Windows, macOS, or Linux. See How to Fix Stopping, Freezing, and Reboot Issues During the POST for a troubleshooting guide on what to do when your computer hangs during the post. A POST test card displays errors during the POST, and is useful if the hardware issue occurs before the monitor can show the error.