The question of how to fix a frozen PC is a common one among computer users. There are several reasons why a computer might freeze, such as not enough RAM, corrupted files, software conflicts and bugs, malware, glitches in the operating system, and similar. If your PC freezes, one of the following fixes will most likely solve the issue.
Fix 1. Find and Close Any Frozen Programs
Pressing Control, Alt, and Delete together on a Windows PC allows you to open the task manager. Look for an irresponsive program and attempt to close it. You can also press Alt and F4 together as an alternative way to close the application or window you currently have open.
On Mac, Command, Option, and Escape pressed together bring up the Force Quit window. You can then press the Force Quit button to close the app causing the problem. Alternatively, use the Finder > Applications > Utilities path to open the Activity Monitor and see what apps are running.
Fix 2. How to Fix a Frozen Screen on PC by Restarting It
With a frozen Windows PC, you can reset it by holding down the power button until the device shuts down. Turn it on again after a few seconds and see if it’s now working properly. If not, press F8 repeatedly to open in safe mode.
Mac users need to hold Command + Control + Power together. Release the button once the device shuts down. Then press Power to restart it.
Fix 3. Restart File Explorer on a Frozen Windows PC
Open Task Manager and choose More Details then look for Processes. Select File Explorer and then End Task.
Fix 4. Look for Signs of Viruses
Malware and viruses commonly cause computers to freeze. Use up-to-date antivirus software to scan your PC for potential threats that could be causing issues.
Fix 5. Check if You Missed Installing Any Updates
Outdated software can cause your PC to freeze or run extremely slowly. Head to your device’s settings to check if there are any updates waiting to be installed. Installing the latest updates will also make your device more secure.
Fix 6. Uninstall Programs You Don’t Use
Freeing up some space can be the simplest way how to fix a frozen PC that regularly stops working. In the Control Panel on a Windows PC, you can select Programs and Features. Mac users should look for Applications. Choose the programs you no longer need. You might want to uninstall any program that regularly freezes and that you feel might be a problem.
Fix 7. Solve Hardware Issues to Unfreeze PC
To unfreeze PC screens, it’s sometimes necessary to resolve a hardware issue. A faulty fan or battery may cause your computer to freeze. Insufficient RAM is sometimes responsible for a frozen screen, too.
Fix 8. Clear Cache and Temporary Files
A large number of cache and temporary files could be the reason for your frozen screen. If you haven’t cleaned these files in a while, you should do so by entering your browser and following the appropriate steps.
Google Chrome: Select the three dots in the top right corner. Choose Delete Browsing Data.
Firefox: Choose the three bars in the top right corner. Pick Settings, Privacy, and then Security followed by Cookies and Site Data. Select Clear Data and then Clear.
Safari: Look for Settings in the top left corner. Under the Advanced tab click on Show features for web developers.
Restart Safari. Under the Develop tab, click on Empty Caches.
Thanks for your feedback!
