Computer Rebooting Problems
Problems with a computer rebooting randomly can be some of the most annoying and difficult computer issues to diagnose, particularly if the computer has a habit of rebooting while you are in the middle of working on something important. Use a systematic method to fix rebooting issues. By starting with the simplest possible causes and moving on to the more complicated ones, you can find the cause of your rebooting problem and resolve it with ease.
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Software
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Many viruses cause system instability when they infect a computer, because they interfere with critical portions of the operating system. Install a trusted antivirus program and scan your computer for viruses and malware. Ensure that your operating system and all hardware drivers are up to date.
Heat
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If your computer is rebooting after periods of sustained use, it may be overheating. Check your computer's intake and exhaust vents, cleaning them if they are caked with dust, and try running your computer with the chassis open. This will allow you to confirm that all of the computer's fans are still working. Additionally, if the computer stops rebooting with the chassis open, you can be reasonably certain that the problem is heat-related. If all of the computer's fans are functioning and are not blocked by dust, consider replacing your CPU heat sink and fan with a more efficient unit.
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Power Supply
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If your computer's rebooting problems are triggered by intensive applications such as computer games, your computer may be demanding more than what the power supply is able to deliver. Disconnect any internal components that are inessential, such as extra hard drives, and see if your computer continues to reboot. If it stops rebooting, replace the power supply.
RAM
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It is rare for RAM to be faulty, but when it is it can generate errors that may cause your computer to become unstable and reboot. Download and run Memtest86, a free utility, to test your RAM. Memtest86 will run for as long as you allow it to, and you should allow it to run for at least a couple of hours. Consider replacing your RAM if you see a large number of errors; you probably have a faulty module.
Motherboard
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Motherboard problems are rare, but if you have exhausted all of your other troubleshooting options, it is possible that a motherboard issue could be causing your computer to reboot. Consider replacing your motherboard if you are unable to determine the cause of your computer's rebooting issue.
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