15 Ways to Stop Random Freezes on Windows (Step-By-Step)
15 Ways to Stop Random Freezes on Windows
If your computer keeps freezing for no clear reason, it can be frustrating and confusing. Random freezes often happen because of driver conflicts, background apps, overheating, or disk errors. The good news is that most freezes can be fixed with simple steps that don’t require reinstalling Windows. Follow these fifteen solutions in order—from easiest to most advanced—and your PC should run smoothly again.
1. Check for Windows Updates
Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
Install all available updates, including optional ones. Many system freezes are caused by outdated patches or driver issues that Microsoft has already fixed.
2. Restart Your Computer
It sounds simple, but a fresh restart clears out temporary glitches and resets system memory. Save any open work, reboot, and see if the freezing continues.
3. Disconnect External Devices
Remove USB drives, printers, and other peripherals. Restart your PC with only the keyboard and mouse connected. If the freezing stops, one of those devices—or its driver—is likely the cause.
4. Run a Virus and Malware Scan
Malware often consumes resources or interferes with normal processes. Run a full scan using Windows Security or a trusted tool like Malwarebytes to remove any infections.
5. Check Storage Space
Make sure your main drive has at least 15–20% free space. Low disk space can slow down system operations and cause temporary freezes. Delete unnecessary files or use Storage Sense to free space.
6. Disable Startup Programs
Too many apps launching at startup can overwhelm system resources.
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → open Task Manager → go to Startup tab → disable apps you don’t need running automatically.
7. Update Your Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common reason for freezing.
Open Device Manager, right-click key components like Display Adapters, Network Adapters, or Storage Controllers, and choose Update driver.
If possible, download the latest versions directly from the manufacturer’s website.
8. Run System File Checker and DISM
Corrupted system files can trigger random lock-ups. Run the following commands in Command Prompt (Admin):
sfc /scannow
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
Reboot when the scans finish.
9. Check for Disk Errors
Run the CHKDSK tool to identify bad sectors or disk issues.
Open Command Prompt (Admin) and type:
chkdsk C: /f /r
Press Y to schedule it at the next restart, then reboot your PC.
10. Monitor System Temperature
Overheating can cause freezes and performance drops. Install a temperature monitor like HWMonitor or Core Temp. If CPU or GPU temperatures exceed 85°C regularly, clean dust from fans and ensure proper ventilation.
11. Adjust Power Settings
Go to Control Panel → Power Options → Change plan settings → Change advanced power settings.
Select High Performance mode to keep components from throttling too aggressively under load.
12. Disable Fast Startup
Fast Startup can sometimes cause hardware or driver conflicts.
Go to Control Panel → Power Options → Choose what the power buttons do → Change settings that are currently unavailable.
Uncheck Turn on fast startup and save changes.
13. Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps isolate software conflicts.
- Press Win + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Under Services, check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
- Under Startup, open Task Manager and disable all startup items.
Restart your computer and check if the freezing persists.
14. Check RAM and Hardware
Use Windows Memory Diagnostic to test your RAM.
Type “memory diagnostic” in the Start menu and select Restart now and check for problems.
If memory errors appear, you may need to reseat or replace your RAM sticks.
15. Reset or Repair Windows
If none of the above fixes help, perform a system repair or reset.
Go to Settings → System → Recovery → Reset this PC and choose Keep my files.
This reinstalls Windows without removing personal data and often resolves deep system corruption.
Recommended Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Malwarebytes | Removes malware that may cause freezes | Malwarebytes.com |
| HWMonitor | Monitors CPU and GPU temperatures | CPUID.com |
| Driver Booster | Updates outdated or missing drivers | IObit.com |
| CCleaner | Cleans junk files and optimizes performance | CCleaner.com |
FAQs About Random Freezes on Windows
Why does my PC freeze randomly even after restarting?
It’s usually due to outdated drivers, overheating, or background apps consuming resources.
Can overheating cause my PC to freeze?
Yes. High temperatures force the CPU or GPU to throttle or shut down to prevent damage.
Will reinstalling Windows fix freezing problems?
If all other fixes fail, a clean reinstall can remove deep system errors or corrupted settings causing instability.
Stay Updated and Regular Maintenance
Random freezes can be frustrating, but they’re almost always fixable. By following these steps in order—from updates to hardware checks—you can identify the cause and restore your computer’s stability. Regular maintenance, driver updates, and malware protection will help keep Windows running smoothly long-term.
