Why Does Your Computer Keep Restarting? Here’s How to Fix It

Why Does Your Computer Keep Restarting? Here’s How to Fix It

Few things are as frustrating as a computer that suddenly restarts without warning. Whether you’re in the middle of work, gaming, or browsing, unexpected restarts can disrupt your tasks and even lead to data loss.

In this guide, we’ll go over the common causes of sudden restarts and how to fix them to keep your system running smoothly.

1. Check for Overheating Issues

Computers automatically restart when they overheat to prevent hardware damage.

How to Check for Overheating:

1. Touch your PC – If it feels unusually hot, overheating might be the problem.

2. Use temperature monitoring software like HWMonitor or Core Temp to check CPU and GPU temperatures.

3. Check the cooling fans – Make sure they are spinning properly and free of dust buildup.

How to Fix It:

• Clean the dust from fans, vents, and heat sinks.

• Reapply thermal paste on the CPU if necessary.

• Improve airflow by ensuring your PC has proper ventilation.

2. Scan for Malware and Viruses

Malware or viruses can cause random restarts by interfering with system processes.

How to Scan for Malware:

1. Run Windows Defender:

   • Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.

   • Click Virus & Threat Protection and run a full scan.

2. Use a third-party tool like Malwarebytes for a deeper scan.

If malware is detected, remove it and restart your PC to check if the problem persists.

3. Update Drivers and Windows

Outdated drivers or system files can lead to instability and unexpected restarts.

How to Update Windows:

1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

2. Click Check for Updates and install any available updates.

How to Update Drivers:

1. Open Device Manager (Windows + X > Device Manager).

2. Expand Display Adapters, Network Adapters, and System Devices.

3. Right-click each and select Update Driver.

4. Disable Automatic Restart on System Failure

By default, Windows automatically restarts when it encounters a critical error.

How to Disable Automatic Restart:

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

2. Go to the Advanced tab.

3. Under Startup and Recovery, click Settings.

4. Uncheck Automatically restart and click OK.

Now, if your system encounters an error, it will show a blue screen with details instead of restarting immediately.

5. Check for Power Supply Issues

A failing power supply unit (PSU) or unstable power delivery can cause sudden restarts.

How to Test Your PSU:

• Try a different power outlet or surge protector.

• Use a power supply tester or replace the PSU with a known working one.

• Check if the power cable is loose or damaged.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

A software conflict could be triggering random restarts.

How to Perform a Clean Boot:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.

2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.

3. Go to the Startup tab and disable all startup programs.

4. Restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

Still Having Restart Issues? Contact ABQ Computer Pros!

If your computer keeps restarting and you can’t find the cause, ABQ Computer Pros can help! We specialize in hardware diagnostics, malware removal, and system repairs to keep your PC running smoothly.

Call us today for expert computer troubleshooting!