Last Updated on April 19, 2024

Have you ever had the experience of a “frozen” computer as this netizen did?

"My computer keeps freezing out of nowhere!! Help! I've had this PC for about two years now and haven't changed any hardware... It just completely freezes without any warning, and I have to force it to shut down... I really need assistance because I'm getting really frustrated with how often this is happening!!!"

You are not alone. Most of us have been annoyed by a crashing computer at some point. It always seems to happen just as you're about to finish something important. Well, it's time to put an end to that. Here, we will teach you how to fix a computer that frequently freezes and becomes unresponsive.

Why does my computer always freeze?

The reason for this, typically, is a problem with third-party software. Part of it has to do with hardware and viruses, and so on.

1. Running too many programs

There are times when you need to have multiple applications running at the same time to meet your needs. However, this can cause your computer to run slowly and crash.

2. Insufficient hard disk space

Drive C stores system files and other files. If you have no space on C drive, your computer may not work properly.

3. Overheated laptops

Move your computer to a cooler area and ensure that it is well ventilated. An overheating CPU can cause your computer to freeze.

4. Viral Infection

These temporary files or external devices may contain unknown viruses.

5. Outdated/Corrupted Drivers

Whatever the cause, here are seven things you can do right now.

1. First, check your computer

When a computer freezes, our first instinct is to restart it. When it's functioning properly, you should back up important data to prevent loss in case of another crash. If your computer continues to freeze or become unresponsive after a restart, it's best to investigate both software and hardware issues with these solutions.

2. Close any third-party software

Your device might be feeling overwhelmed by running too many apps at once. Please open the Task Manager and tap on End Task.

Step 1: Right-click the Windows icon and select Device Manager from the list.

Step 2: Tap on Processes > find the frozen app > tap on End Task

End Task

Resize C drive with Partition Master tool

If there is insufficient space on the C drive, your computer may freeze randomly. You can use professional software, such as the Partition Master Tool, to extend the C drive.

In-depth Tutorial

Option 1: Expand the System C Drive using unallocated space

    1. Right-click on the System C drive and select "Resize/Move." 2. Drag the end of the system partition towards the unallocated space to add it to the C drive. Then click "OK." 3. Click "Apply" and "Execute Task" to perform the operation and extend the C drive.

Option 2: Extend System C Drive without Unallocated Space

    1. Right-click on a large partition with enough free space on the system disk and select "Allocate Space." 2. In the "Allocate space from (*) to" section, choose the system drive, then drag the end of the System C drive to the unallocated space. Click "OK" to confirm. 3. Click "Perform Tasks," which will list the pending operations. Then click "Apply" to save the changes and extend the C drive.

0:00-0:26 - Extending the system drive with unallocated space; 0:27-0:58 - Extending the system drive without unallocated space.

4. Delete temporary files

Your system might be under attack by viruses because of unnecessary temporary files. It is wise to clean them up.

Notice: Is it safe to delete temporary files? Do not delete temporary files that are in use (this can cause program errors). Make sure the programs that were using the temporary files are closed, and that the files still exist. You can then safely delete this data.

Step-by-step Tutorial

Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Run window.

Step 2. Type in %temp% and click on OK to open the “Temp” folder.

Step 3: Review the temporary files and select all of them by pressing Ctrl + A.

Step 4. Click Delete > Yes.

Delete temporary files

Update the drivers

Drivers act as a bridge between Windows and your apps, and updating them can fix freezing issues.

Step 1: Press Windows + R, and then click on Device Manager.

Step 2: Click on "Disk Drive."

Step 3: Right-click the drive and select Update Driver.

Update Drivers for USB Drive

6. Update or reinstall your program

Corrupted programs can also cause your computer to freeze or crash. You can update your programs to their latest versions, or download them again from the website.

7. Change External Devices

This might be due to malware on your computer. If the freezing issue occurs frequently when external devices are connected, it's recommended to replace the device promptly.

Additional Tip: How to Export Data When Your Computer is Running Slow

If none of these 7 quick fixes do the trick for you, it's time to call in professional computer services. Before taking it to the shop, make sure to migrate your files, apps, and settings to another computer for future use. You can try using a tool like Todo PCTrans and take advantage of its "Data Rescue" feature.

Step 1: Remove the hard drive from the old computer.

  • Turn off the computer and unplug it. If it's a laptop, remove the battery as well.
  • Open up the case of the old computer so you can access the hard drive.
  • You may need to use a screwdriver to open the case and access the hard drive.
  • Disconnect the hard drive and any cables attached to it, then remove the hard drive.

Step 2: Connect the hard drive to the new computer.

Multiple connectivity options:

    1. USB hard drive enclosure: This special case connects your old hard drive and lets you plug it into the new computer via USB.
    2. USB hard drive adapter: This is like a "cable" that connects one end to your hard drive and the other end to a USB port on your new computer.
    3. Desktop computer: If your new computer is a desktop, you can connect the old hard drive directly as a second drive.

Step 3: Restore/approach applications, files, and accounts from the old hard drive.

1. Download and run the Todo PCTrans tool. Select “Data Transfer” mode, then click “Start.”

Data Rescue 1

2. Review the steps, then click “Scan.”

Data Recovery 2

3. Make sure the hard drive is connected to your computer. Select the old hard drive you want to recover, then click “Continue.”

Data Rescue 3

4. Choose the apps, files, and accounts you want to restore.

Data Rescue project

5. Wait a few seconds for the data transfer to complete.

Data Rescue Complete