How to stop your computer from freezing: Windows 11, 10, 7

In order to repair your frozen computer, you must first understand what things can cause it to be in such a state. Here, we've compiled a list of the most common reasons for a frozen computer.

Why does a computer freeze?

Defective memory (RAM)

Frozen computers are most often caused by defective RAM modules. Particularly, RAM modules from the no-name brands are often responsible for preventing an otherwise healthy computer from performing optimally. To check how your RAM is working, use Memtest. To discover how to do so, please refer to our article on testing RAM reliability with Memtest.

Hardware conflict

Your computer may be freezing because of an issue with your hardware. To fix this, you need to restart your PC with as few peripheral devices connected. Disconnect any CD drives, Internet modems, printers, external hard drives, etc.

Continue trying to reboot the PC until it does not reboot anymore. Once it stops rebooting, plug in the peripheral devices one by one until the problem arises again. This will allow you to isolate the problematic device.

You should also consider giving your entire hardware system — including the motherboard, processor, video card, and sound card — a full check. A professional repairman can also perform this task by changing each element one by one.

Overheated processor or graphic card

Your computer may also be malfunctioning due to an overheated processor or graphic card. Double-check the processor or graphic card temperature and, if it is too hot, install a more powerful fan.

To find the processor or graphic card temperature, you simply need to use the dedicated tool that comes with certain motherboards.

It is also possible to reduce the temperature by reducing the processor voltage using the BIOS. However, this trick should only be performed by an expert, as it can provoke system instability.

Defective power supply

Your computer could be freezing due to an insufficient power supply. The solution is to change the power supply for one that is more powerful. You could also have your power supply tested by a professional.

Your computer can also be freezing due to mini-outages by your energy company. Double check that your home's energy source is okay; if not, you should contact your energy company.

If this is a recurring issue, or simply one that you would like to avoid, consider purchasing an inverter for your computer.

Software Conflict

Your computer might be freezing due to a software program that you have installed on your computer. Try to remember when your device's performance problems began and which programs you downloaded around that time. Then, delete or update any applications that may be responsible.

BIOS settings

Your BIOS settings may be the reason your computer is freezing. To fix this, you need to make sure that the memory frequency is the appropriate one and that the latency corresponds to the factory settings.

The voltages are also of vital importance. Also, a RAM with a voltage that is too weak will often be unstable and provoke freezing. You should double-check the RAM specifications on the manufacture's website and align your voltage with the recommended one. (If you are unsure, set it between 1.9v and 2.2v if it is a DDR2 and at least 2.2v if it is a DDR1.) A processor voltage that is too low can also cause instability; you should set this figure to the manufacturer's recommendations as well, generally between 1.2v and 1.4v.

A BIOS update may also be available on the website of your motherboard's manufacturer. Before doing so, you may want to consider saving your current BIOS on an external disk.

Viruses

A virus may be the reason behind your computer's freezing problem as it is one of the most frequent causes of this issue. Many viruses lead to this, notably the Sasser and Blaster viruses.

How to stop your PC from automatically restarting?

If your PC's automatic restart feature is causing your computer to malfunction, you can deactivate this setting.

Go to the Start menu, followed by the Control Panel. Next, head to Performance and Maintenance, then System.

Click the Advanced tab, then click Settings under Startup and Recovery. Finally, uncheck Automatically Restart.