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How to Fix Windows 10 Computer Freezes: Effective Solutions to Solve the Error

Windows 10 freezing can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of important work or entertainment. This issue can happen due to various reasons, such as software glitches, hardware problems, or system overload. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to fix these freezes and get your computer running smoothly again.

In this guide, we will walk you through easy-to-understand solutions to resolve Windows 10 freezing problems. Each step is explained in detail to help you follow along, even if you are not very tech-savvy. By the end, you should have a clearer understanding of how to tackle this common issue.

Remember, freezing can sometimes be temporary or caused by minor issues that you can fix yourself. However, if the problem persists, more advanced troubleshooting might be necessary.

Let’s start by checking some quick points before diving into the solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Save your work regularly: Freezing can cause data loss, so it’s best to save files often.
  • Check for Windows updates: Sometimes, freezing happens because your system lacks important updates or patches.
  • Disconnect external devices: Remove USB drives, printers, or other peripherals temporarily to see if they cause the freeze.
  • Close unnecessary programs: Running too many applications at once can overload your PC and cause freezing.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Before trying anything complicated, restart your PC. This simple step clears temporary files and resets your system, which often solves freezing issues.

How to restart:

  1. Click the Start button (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Choose Restart.

If your computer is completely unresponsive, press and hold the power button for about 5 seconds to force a shutdown, then press it again to turn it back on.

Step 2: Check for Windows Updates

Windows updates often include fixes for bugs that cause freezing. Installing the latest updates can improve system stability.

How to check for updates:

  1. Click Start and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Click Windows Update on the left panel.
  4. Press Check for updates.
  5. Install any available updates and restart your PC if asked.

Step 3: Scan for Malware

Malware or viruses can cause your computer to freeze unexpectedly. Running a full system scan helps detect and remove malicious software.

How to scan using Windows Security:

  1. Open Start and search for Windows Security.
  2. Click Virus & threat protection.
  3. Select Scan options.
  4. Choose Full scan and click Scan now.
  5. Wait until the scan finishes and follow any instructions if threats are found.

Step 4: Free Up Disk Space

Low disk space can slow down your system and cause freezes. Deleting unnecessary files can help improve performance.

How to free space:

  1. Open Start and go to Settings.
  2. Select System, then Storage.
  3. Click on your main drive (usually C:).
  4. Use the Temporary files option to delete junk files.
  5. Consider uninstalling unused programs through Control Panel > Programs & Features.

Step 5: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or faulty drivers, especially for graphics or chipset, can cause freezing. Updating drivers ensures better hardware compatibility.

How to update drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand categories such as Display adapters or Network adapters.
  3. Right-click on the device and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow prompts to install updates and restart if needed.

Step 6: Disable Startup Programs

Many programs launch automatically when Windows starts, which can slow down your PC and cause freezes. Disabling unnecessary startup programs can help.

How to disable startup programs:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Click the Startup tab.
  3. Look for programs with high Startup impact.
  4. Right-click unwanted programs and select Disable.
  5. Restart your computer to apply changes.

Step 7: Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can cause freezes. Windows includes a tool called System File Checker that repairs damaged files.

How to run SFC scan:

  1. Click Start, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

The scan will take some time. When done, it will report if any files were repaired. Restart your PC afterward.

Step 8: Check Hardware Health

Sometimes freezes are caused by hardware issues such as failing RAM or hard drive problems. Running diagnostic tools can help identify these.

Memory Diagnostic:

  1. Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
  2. Choose Restart now and check for problems.
  3. Your computer will restart and test the memory. Note any errors reported.

Check Hard Drive Health: Use built-in tools like chkdsk:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type the command below and press Enter:
chkdsk C: /f /r

This will scan and fix errors on your main drive. You may need to restart your PC to start the scan.

Step 9: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, helping you find if third-party software causes freezing.

How to clean boot:

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  3. Switch to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  4. Disable all startup items.
  5. Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
  6. Restart your computer and see if freezing continues.

If freezing stops, enable services and startup items one by one to find the culprit.

FAQs

Why does my Windows 10 keep freezing randomly?

Freezing can be caused by outdated drivers, insufficient RAM, malware infections, corrupted system files, or hardware problems.

Is it safe to force shutdown when my PC freezes?

Force shutdown is sometimes necessary, but it can cause data loss or file corruption. Use it only if your PC is completely unresponsive.

Can updating Windows fix freezing issues?

Yes, updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can resolve freezing problems.

How often should I update my device drivers?

Check for driver updates every few months or whenever you experience hardware-related issues.

What if my PC freezes during startup?

Try booting into Safe Mode or performing a clean boot to troubleshoot problematic software or drivers.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and your Windows 10 computer still freezes, it might be time for more advanced troubleshooting or professional help.

  • Consider performing a System Restore to revert your PC to an earlier state when it was working fine.
  • Reset Windows 10 using the Reset this PC option in Settings, which reinstalls Windows without affecting your files (backup recommended).
  • Contact Microsoft Support or visit the official Windows support page for more assistance.
  • Consult a certified technician if hardware issues are suspected.

Conclusion

Freezing issues in Windows 10 can stem from a variety of causes, but most can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with a restart and checking for updates often fixes minor problems. Scanning for malware, freeing up disk space, updating drivers, and running system checks help improve system stability. If software conflicts are suspected, a clean boot can isolate the problem.

Always keep your system and drivers updated and maintain good security practices to minimize freezing occurrences. If problems persist, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to avoid further damage.

By following these detailed steps, you can bring your Windows 10 computer back to smooth operation and reduce frustrating freezes.

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