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.