How to Fix Screen Freezes but PC Keeps Running

Have you ever experienced the infuriating scenario where your computer's screen freezes? One such issue is a frozen screen, although the PC continues to operate. So, what causes it? And how would you go about changing this? In this essay, we will look at a few probable causes and treatments. So let us get started.

Often, individuals find that their screen has frozen, but the PC continues to function. An easy way to picture this problem is being unable to move your cursor/mouse pointer. However, you realize that your computer is still working.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the potential causes behind this problem and provide step-by-step solutions to help you regain control of your system.

Why screen freeze but PC keeps running?

Before diving into the solutions, let's uncover the possible reasons behind the screen freezes issue while your PC remains operational. Understanding the root causes can empower you to make informed decisions when troubleshooting. Here are some common culprits:

Overloaded System Resources:

Your computer might be struggling with excessive background processes or applications, consuming valuable system resources and causing the screen to freeze.

Corrupted System Files:

Corruption in essential system files can lead to erratic behavior, including screen freezes. This may occur due to software conflicts, abrupt shutdowns, or malware infections.

Insufficient Hard Disk Space:

Running out of storage space on your hard disk can impact your computer's performance, potentially resulting in screen freezes while the PC continues to run smoothly.

Faulty Graphics Drivers:

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers may lead to display issues, causing the screen to freeze intermittently.

Overheating Hardware:

Excessive heat can adversely affect your computer's components. If your system is not adequately cooled, it may experience screen freezes as a protective measure to prevent hardware damage.

Solutions for Screen Freezes but PC Keeps Running

Solution 1: Perform A System Restore

If your system has recently started exhibiting screen freezes, performing a System Restore can be an effective way to roll back your computer to a previous state. This can undo recent changes and configurations that might be contributing to the issue.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Press the Windows key + S to open the search bar.
2. Type "Create a restore point" and select the corresponding result.
3. In the System Properties window, click on the "System Restore" button.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point and initiate the process.

Solution 2: Perform A Clean Boot

A Clean Boot minimizes startup programs and services, helping to identify if a third-party application is causing the screen freezes.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "msconfig" and press Enter to open the System Configuration window.
3. In the General tab, select "Selective startup" and uncheck "Load startup items."
4. Navigate to the Services tab, check "Hide all Microsoft services," and click "Disable all."
5. Click "Apply" and then "OK." Restart your computer.

Solution 3: Free Up Hard Disk Space

Running out of hard disk space can contribute to system slowdowns and screen freezes. Clearing up space can alleviate these issues.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open File Explorer and right-click on the drive with low space.
2. Select "Properties" and click on the "General" tab.
3. Click on "Disk Cleanup" to analyze and clean up unnecessary files.
4. Follow the prompts to select file categories and complete the cleanup process.

Solution 4: Run the System File Checker

Corrupted system files can lead to instability. The System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs these files, potentially resolving the screen freeze problem.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type "sfc /scannow" and press Enter.
3. Allow the scan to complete. If any issues are found, SFC will attempt to repair them.

Solution 5: Check Hardware Temperatures

Overheating hardware can trigger screen freezes as a protective measure. Monitoring and addressing high temperatures can alleviate this issue.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Download and install a temperature monitoring tool (e.g., HWMonitor).
2. Run the tool and observe CPU and GPU temperatures.
3. Ensure adequate airflow and consider cleaning dust from cooling components.
4. If temperatures are consistently high, additional cooling solutions may be required.

Conclusion

These are some of the most prevalent causes of screen freezing and their solutions. As a result, make sure to review everything discussed in this post, including hardware and software concerns. However, before making any solutions, make sure to make a backup of your data. In this manner, you will prevent any unneeded data loss.