How to fix a frozen screen on a Windows computer

frozen screen fix, Windows not responding
  • By Admin
  • Jun 11, 2025

How to Fix a Frozen Screen on a Windows Computer

A frozen screen can slow everything down and make your work stop. If you're seeing Windows not responding or looking for a reliable frozen screen fix, follow the simple steps below. These methods can help you bring your computer back to normal.

1. Wait for PC to Respond (It Works!)

  • Sometimes Windows just needs a little time.
  • If your screen is frozen, don’t press too many buttons.
  • Wait 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  • Many Windows not responding errors fix themselves if the system is just busy.

2. Use Ctrl + Alt + Delete

  • Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete on your keyboard at the same time.
  • This shortcut may bring up a blue screen with a menu.
  • Select Task Manager from the list.
  • This is a basic frozen screen fix that often works right away.

3. End Not Responding Programs

  • Inside Task Manager, look at the list of running programs.
  • Find any that say Not Responding.
  • Click on them, then press End Task.
  • This closes only the problem app without restarting your computer.
  • It's a fast way to stop Windows not responding issues.

4. Restart Your Computer

  • If Task Manager doesn’t open or the screen stays stuck, try a full restart.
  • Hold the power button on your computer for 5–10 seconds until it turns off.
  • Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.
  • This helps when a normal frozen screen fix doesn’t work.

5. Disconnect Extra Devices

  • Remove all external devices like USB drives, printers, or hard drives.
  • These can sometimes cause a Windows not responding problem.
  • After unplugging, restart your computer.
  • This simple trick often gives a clean frozen screen fix.

6. Boot into Safe Mode

  • Restart computer and press F8 or Shift + F8 before Windows loads.
  • Select Safe Mode from the menu.
  • Safe Mode loads only the basic parts of Windows.
  • It helps find problems without other programs causing Windows not responding.

7. Check for Windows Updates

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for Updates and install any available ones.
  • Updates fix bugs that may be freezing your computer.
  • This step is important for a lasting frozen screen fix.

8. Run a Virus Scan

  • Open Windows Security or your antivirus program.
  • Run a full system scan to check for harmful files.
  • Viruses can cause freezes and Windows not responding messages.
  • Removing them is an important frozen screen fix.

9. Free Up Memory and Disk Space

  • Close apps you're not using.
  • Delete old files, clear browser tabs, and empty the recycle bin.
  • A full hard drive can make Windows slow or unresponsive.
  • This clean-up is a smart step for any frozen screen fix plan.

10. Update or Reinstall Device Drivers

  • Go to Device Manager by right-clicking the Start menu.
  • Find drivers like Display, Audio, or Network.
  • Right-click and choose Update Driver.
  • Old or broken drivers can lead to Windows not responding issues.

11. Use System Restore

  • Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
  • Pick a date before your screen starts freezing.
  • This will undo recent changes that may have caused the problem.
  • System Restore is a powerful frozen screen fix when nothing else helps.

Conclusion

Follow these 11 steps carefully. Each one is made to handle common reasons behind a frozen screen and Windows not responding errors. By doing these in order, you’ll have a much better chance of fixing the problem without needing expert help. 

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