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How to Fix Windows 11 Anniversary Update Freeze Issues with Self-Healing Repairs

Many Windows 11 users have experienced freezing issues after installing the Anniversary Update. These freezes can interrupt work and cause frustration. Fortunately, self-healing repair tools in Windows can often fix these problems without needing advanced technical skills.

This article will guide you through simple and effective steps to resolve freezing issues on Windows 11 Anniversary Update. Each step is explained clearly, so you can follow along easily.

By following these instructions, you can restore your system’s stability and improve performance. Let’s get started with some quick notes before diving into troubleshooting.

Understanding why freezes happen can help prevent future issues and keep your PC running smoothly.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Backup important files: Always save your important documents and data before starting any repair process.
  • Check system updates: Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated as some fixes may already be included.
  • Close running applications: To avoid conflicts, close all other programs before beginning repairs.
  • Power source: Keep your device plugged in to prevent shutdowns during repair.

Step 1: Run the Windows Troubleshooter

The built-in Windows Troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix common problems. This is the easiest and fastest way to check for freeze issues.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot.
  3. Click on Other troubleshooters.
  4. Find Windows Update or System Maintenance and click Run.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter fixes corrupted files, incorrect settings, or other common issues that cause freezes.

Step 2: Use the System File Checker Tool (SFC)

System File Checker scans and repairs corrupted Windows system files. Frozen systems often result from damaged files.

  1. Press Windows + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait patiently as the tool scans and repairs files. This can take some time.
  5. Once completed, restart your computer to apply changes.

Why this helps: It restores damaged or missing system files that may cause Windows to freeze.

Step 3: Run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management Tool (DISM)

If SFC doesn’t fix the problem, DISM can repair the underlying Windows image. This is a deeper repair method.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (see previous step).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands check for corruption and restore system health automatically. After completion, restart your PC.

Why this helps: DISM fixes Windows image corruption that SFC cannot repair on its own.

Step 4: Check for Driver Updates

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause freezing. Updating drivers ensures hardware communicates properly with Windows 11.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand categories like Display adapters, Network adapters, and others.
  3. Right-click each device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow prompts if updates are found.

Alternative method: Visit the manufacturer’s website for your PC or hardware and download the latest drivers manually.

Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with only essential drivers and services. This helps identify if third-party software is causing freezes.

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services to avoid disabling critical system services.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
  8. Restart your PC and check if freezing continues.

Why this helps: It isolates software conflicts that might be freezing your system.

Step 6: Reset Windows 11 as a Last Resort

If none of the above steps work, resetting Windows can fix deep system issues. This process reinstalls Windows but lets you keep your personal files if you choose.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to System > Recovery.
  3. Click Reset PC under Recovery options.
  4. Select Keep my files to preserve data or Remove everything for a clean slate.
  5. Follow the prompts to complete the reset.

Important: Back up important files before resetting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Windows 11 freeze after the Anniversary Update?

Freezes can occur due to corrupted system files, outdated drivers, software conflicts, or incomplete updates.

Can I fix freeze issues without losing my files?

Yes. Running troubleshooters, SFC, DISM, and clean boot methods do not delete your personal data. Only resetting Windows with the “Remove everything” option will erase files.

How long does the SFC scan take?

It usually takes 10-30 minutes depending on your system performance and disk speed.

Is it safe to disable startup programs during a clean boot?

Yes, you are only disabling non-essential programs temporarily to diagnose issues. You can re-enable them later.

Where can I find official help if these steps don’t work?

You can visit the Microsoft Support website for further assistance.

When Nothing Works

If your Windows 11 still freezes after all the above steps, consider the following options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Use official channels for personalized help.
  • Visit a professional technician: Hardware issues like failing RAM or hard drives can cause freezes.
  • Check event logs: Use Event Viewer to find error messages that may hint at the cause.
  • Consider a clean installation: Back up your data and perform a fresh Windows install if system corruption is severe.

Conclusion

Freezing issues after the Windows 11 Anniversary Update can be frustrating but are often fixable with self-healing repair tools. Starting with simple troubleshooters and progressing to more advanced options like SFC and DISM can restore system stability.

Always update your drivers and perform clean boots to isolate problems. Resetting Windows should be your last resort after backing up data.

By following these clear and detailed steps, you can get your Windows 11 PC running smoothly again and avoid future freezes.

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