How to Fix a Frozen Computer

Learn how to fix your computer when it freezes by following a basic troubleshooting procedure.

Having a program lock up on you while in the middle of something can be frustrating, but you need to know how to fix the computer to get back to work. Sometimes you can resolve the situation from within Windows, but occasionally Windows itself will completely lock up. Follow these steps to work from simple solutions to more severe solutions. With practice, you can learn to follow these steps any time your computer freezes.

Instructions

1. Open the task manager by pressing "Control," "Alt" and "Delete" at the same time and clicking on "Task Manager." Select the program that is frozen and click on "End Task." If the task manager does not open, Windows is frozen and you will need to move on to the next step.

2. Press and hold the power button on the computer. This will turn off the computer so you can then restart it. Unfortunately, some computers will not respond to this.

3. Turn off the power strip in which the computer is plugged or pull the power cord from the back of the computer. This should be avoided if possible, but in some cases it is the only solution to get the computer to respond.

References

• Carmel Central School District Technology Team: Basic Computer Troubleshooting Guide