Whether it’s a personal device or work laptop, frozen computer screens always seem to pop up at the worst possible moment. Fortunately, there are a number of different remedies available to help you minimize downtime and get back to work as quickly as possible when your computer is frozen.
6 Ways to Fix a Frozen Computer Screen
Try the following 6 steps to fix a frozen computer – from a simple restart to more in-depth troubleshooting.
1. Restart the Frozen Computer
The first and easiest option is to try restarting your frozen computer. On a Windows device, press the Control, Alt, and Delete buttons simultaneously to open the Task Manager, then select “restart”. On a Mac, this can be done by pressing Command, Option, and Escape.
If your Windows computer is completely frozen and Ctrl + Alt + Del is not working, perform a hard reset by holding down the power button until the computer shuts down. Wait a few seconds before turning the computer back on. If the computer continues to freeze after a restart, try rebooting in safe mode by pressing the F8 key repeatedly. This will allow you to try the following steps.
2. Check for Updates
If your computer is running slowly or the screen is freezing frequently, it could be the result of outdated software or uninstalled updates. Go to the settings on your computer and install any available updates, then restart the computer. If your company uses a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution, this can be done remotely from a separate device. Contact a member of your IT department who oversees device management for help. Aside from issues with frozen computers, it’s also considered a cybersecurity best practice to install updates as they become available.
3. Scan for Malware and Viruses
Another potential cause of frozen computers is the presence of malware or viruses. Run a scan on your computer to check for any infections that may be causing the issue. Both Mac and Windows computers have scan options within their security settings, or you can use a free tool like Malwarebytes. If you’re unsure, check in with your IT team on how to proceed. All businesses should keep up-to-date antivirus software installed on employee devices, and conduct regular scans to identify problems that impact device performance.
4. Uninstall Unused Programs
If your computer is freezing frequently, it could be due to a lack of available storage space. One way to relieve pressure on your device is to uninstall any programs that you don’t use. Go to the Control Panel on your computer and look for “Programs and Features” (Windows) or “Applications” (Mac). Select the programs you want to uninstall and follow the prompts to complete the process. If your computer freezes regularly when using a particular program, it may be time to uninstall it and find an alternative.
5. Clear Cache and Temporary Files
Cache and temporary files can accumulate over time and take up valuable space on your computer. Like unused programs, clearing these files can improve your device speed and reduce the likelihood of a frozen computer screen. This step is particularly important if your device crashes when web pages become frozen or unresponsive.
6. Check Hardware
Double check that all hardware is properly connected in case an issue with cables or peripherals is causing your frozen computer. If you use an MDM solution, you should also be able to remotely view insights into the device’s general health. If all else fails, it’s time to call in the professionals to take a look at the device in-person.
Wasting Time on Frozen Computers?
A frozen computer screen may seem like a minor inconvenience, but repeat crashes can have a serious impact on employee productivity and your business’s bottom line. This becomes even more of an issue in companies with limited IT resources or stretched in-house teams. Ready to try a more efficient approach to IT management? Get in touch with Electric today.
