PC Won’t Shut Down? Here’s How to Fix It

Written By Chad .

PC Won’t Shut Down? Here’s How to Fix It

Is your PC refusing to shut down no matter how many times you click the power button? A computer that won’t shut down properly can be frustrating and may lead to data corruption, slow performance, and overheating. If your Windows PC won’t turn off, don’t worry—we’ve got solutions to fix the problem.

Common Reasons Why Your PC Won’t Shut Down

A computer that won’t power off is often caused by:

  • Background programs preventing shutdown.

  • Pending Windows updates.

  • Fast Startup settings interfering with shutdown.

  • Corrupt system files.

  • Outdated drivers or BIOS issues.

Let’s go through the troubleshooting steps to fix this issue.

1. Force Shut Down Your PC

If your computer is stuck on the shutting down screen, try forcing it to power off.

How to Force Shutdown:

  1. Press and hold the power button for at least 10 seconds until the PC turns off.

  2. Wait a few moments, then restart your computer.

  3. Try shutting down normally again (Start > Power > Shut Down).

If the issue persists, move on to the next solution.

2. Close Background Programs Manually

Sometimes, apps running in the background prevent Windows from shutting down.

How to Close Background Apps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  2. Look for any unresponsive programs under the Processes tab.

  3. Right-click the program and select End Task.

  4. Try shutting down your PC again.

3. Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup is a Windows feature that speeds up boot times but can also cause shutdown issues.

How to Disable Fast Startup:

  1. Press Windows + R, type powercfg.cpl, and hit Enter.

  2. Click Choose what the power buttons do on the left.

  3. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.

  4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).

  5. Click Save changes and restart your PC.

Now, try shutting down again.

4. Install Pending Windows Updates

If Windows has unfinished updates, your PC may refuse to shut down properly.

How to Check for Updates:

  1. Open Settings (Windows + I).

  2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.

  3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

  4. Restart your PC and try shutting down again.

5. Run Windows Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter to detect and fix shutdown issues.

How to Use the Power Troubleshooter:

  1. Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

  2. Click Additional troubleshooters.

  3. Select Power and click Run the troubleshooter.

  4. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC.

6. Scan for Corrupt System Files

If system files are damaged, they can interfere with the shutdown process.

How to Run System File Checker (SFC):

  1. Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).

  2. Type the following command and press Enter:

    sh

    CopyEdit

    sfc /scannow

  3. Wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC.

7. Check for Outdated Drivers or BIOS Issues

Outdated drivers or a faulty BIOS can cause shutdown problems.

How to Update Drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.

  2. Expand System Devices and Update Drivers for key components.

How to Update BIOS:

Check your motherboard manufacturer’s website for the latest BIOS update instructions.

Still Can’t Shut Down Your PC? Call ABQ Computer Pros!

If your computer still won’t shut down, ABQ Computer Pros can help! We specialize in software troubleshooting, hardware repairs, and system optimization to keep your PC running smoothly.

Call us today for expert PC repair services!

Chad .
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