Why Does My Computer Keep Crashing?

You’ve typed the final word of your business proposal, finished the last call-to-action of your slide deck, or are just about to save that final edit of an important email when it happens—your screen goes black, your computer freezes, or you get the dreaded blue screen of death.

Whether you’ve experienced that pit in your stomach at a computer crash or you just want to avoid it in the future, understanding why your computer keeps crashing can help you troubleshoot and prevent it from happening again. Here are some common causes of computer crashes and what you can do to fix them.

Overheating

Heat is the arch-nemesis of electronics, and your computer is no different. The CPU, graphics card, and even the hard drive generate heat, which under normal circumstances, should be dissipated effectively by your computer’s cooling system. However, dust accumulation, a malfunctioning fan, or a laptop placed on a non-breathable surface can quickly turn the tables, leading to overheating which, in turn, leads to shutdowns and a computer crash.

Troubleshooting Overheating

Start by checking if your computer feels unusually hot to the touch or if the internal fans are louder than usual. You might also spot a warning in the form of temperature readings if you have monitoring software installed.

To remedy this, ensure your computer has ample ventilation and consider cleaning the dust from its insides if it’s a desktop. For a laptop, invest in a cooling pad and make sure its surroundings are obstruction-free.

Hardware Failures

Hardware failures can have various origins, whether it’s a faulty RAM stick, a dying hard drive, or a motherboard issue. These parts have their lifespans, and they eventually wear out with time. When they do, the result is often a mysterious and opaque system failure.

Pinpointing the Problem

Diagnosing a hardware failure can be tricky, but there are tell-tale signs. Frequent crashes with changing error messages, a blue screen, and unexplained freezes are red flags.

To be more proactive, regularly run hardware diagnostic tests that are often built into your operating system or seek the help of various third-party tools. If you’re unsure, remember that unusual noises, such as clicking or grinding, are never good and might signal an imminent computer crash.

Software Incompatibility and Crashes

Incompatible software, whether it’s a new program you’ve installed or a recent update, can struggle to function within the constraints of your system, leading to crashes.

What to Watch Out For

If you’ve noticed that your computer began misbehaving shortly after a software change, that’s a strong clue. Have an eagle eye for error messages that might give away the problem application.

A good practice is to verify the compatibility of any new application with your system’s specifications before installation. Also, don’t ignore those software update notifications—they often bring with them crucial compatibility fixes.

Malware Threats

Malware, the scariest digital threat, often wreaks havoc under the veil of a normal operation. When a computer becomes infected, the malware can work behind the scenes to overload the system or disrupt normal operations, leading to a computer crash.

Guarding the Gates

Ensure your system and any installed security software are up to date. Regular scans for viruses and malware are a must, and caution should be exercised with email attachments, downloads from unverified sources, and sketchy websites. Consider using a reputable ad blocker and a secure browser to further minimize the risk of digital infestation.

Stability and Supply Issues

Do you experience crashes when you tap into a power-heavy application or even at seemingly random times? This could point to a power supply issue. Inconsistent or inadequate electrical power can cause systems to become unstable and crash.

Checking the Current

Begin by ensuring your computer is connected to a reliable power source. Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) are a great investment, particularly in areas with spotty power grids. For desktops, using a surge protector can also prevent damage from power spikes. If the computer crashes persist, testing your power supply or consulting a professional is a good choice.

Enough Resources for All Your Applications

Modern applications, particularly resource-intensive ones like video editing or design, can put a strain on your system. If you’re running multiple programs simultaneously and notice computer crashes, resource constraints could be at play.

Finding Balance

Keep track of how many applications you have running and consider upgrading your RAM or hard drive to better handle modern software requirements.

Check that your computer isn’t overloaded with too many background processes or applications. Close any unnecessary tabs, disable any programs that automatically launch on startup, and consider limiting the number of programs you have open simultaneously.

Also, periodic reboots can clear the slate and give your system a fresh start. Optimization tools can also help manage resources and prevent computer crashes due to a lack of system resources.

Operating System Conflicts

Even the most robust software isn’t immune to human errors, and your operating system is no exception. Misconfigurations, driver conflicts, or corrupt system files can all cause instability leading to computer crashes and slowdowns.

What Can You Do?

For operating system issues, you might need to go a little farther back. This can include rolling back to a previous save point, reinstalling problematic drivers, or in extreme cases, performing a system reset. Regular backups of your files can save you a world of hurt if a full reset becomes necessary.

Knowing When to Call Support

If you’ve worked through all these troubleshooting tips but you’re still dealing with crashes, it might be time to call in the professionals. Technical support can help you identify and fix any underlying issues that might be causing your computer crashes.

In addition, regular maintenance and check-ups from a professional can help catch potential problems before they become bigger issues, ensuring better performance and fewer crashes in the long run. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance if needed.

Common Angle for Computer Woes

You can’t get your work done if your computer keeps crashing. The stress and frustration of dealing with crashes can be overwhelming, but understanding the common causes and taking proactive steps to prevent them can save you time, energy, and potentially important files.

With help from Common Angle, you can protect your computer from crashes and keep it running smoothly. Our team of experts can provide technical support, maintenance, and optimization services to ensure a stable and efficient computing experience. From software compatibility issues to hardware failures, we’ve got you covered. 

Contact us today to get the IT support you need!