Why is my computer crashing?
Nothing can put a damper on productivity (not to mention your mood!) quite like a computer
that crashes on a regular basis. Sometimes, a crash is preceded by the dreaded “blue screen
of death” or another warning; other times, a computer simply shuts off without any warning at
all. In either case, the end result is a whole lot of frustration, aggravation and lost work
(maybe even some finger nail biting, hair pulling and verbal abuse of your computer). If your
computer has been crashing frequently, you’d probably like to put an end to it. The crashing,
not the computer. Unfortunately, getting to the bottom of things is often easier said than done.
The following tips about improving your computer’s performance, though, are good places to
begin.
Possibility #1: Corrupted System Registry Files
Every Windows-based PC has something called a Windows registry. The registry contains several files that are integral to
the performance and operation of your computer. Over time, some of those files can become corrupted, be misplaced or get
lost altogether. When that happens, the system registry becomes compromised – and frequent crashes are all-too-common
symptoms. The best way to rule this possibility in or out is by running a Windows registry cleaning program. Such programs
scan your Windows registry for problems then automatically make repairs. If you run a registry cleaner and the crashes
persist, they are probably being caused by a different issue. But keep in mind that it is easy to make matters worse by
further corrupting the registry if your not sure of what you’re doing.
Possibility #2: Disorganized Files
Windows operating systems handle file organization in a way that isn’t very intuitive. Basically, they break files up and fit
them into gaps in the computer’s memory. As time goes by, these disorganized files can prompt frequent crashes. Luckily, a
good optimization solution is built right into Windows-based PCs: the Disk Defragmenter utility. Although its location on a
computer varies, you can generally locate it within the System and Security section inside the Control Panel or in System
Tools (Start -> (All) Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools). By running a defrag once every couple months, you may be
able to keep those pesky computer crashes at bay.
Possibility #3: Malicious Software
Malicious software can take many different forms. Sometimes, it’s a virus that is accidentally unleashed after opening a
strange email; other times, it’s adware that tags along with other information that is automatically downloaded from a
website. Whatever type it is, there’s no question that malicious software can wreak havoc on a computer’s performance.
Happily, there are many topnotch programs out there that regularly scan your computer for the presence of such problems –
and that help guard against them, too. Buy one (look around, some of the best are free), install it and use it regularly; your
crash issues may come to an end.
Possibility #4: Too Little Available Memory
When you buy a new computer, it feels like there’s no end to the amount of memory that it has. Of course, this isn’t true at
all. As never-ending as the available memory on your PC may initially seem, the fact is that it can be depleted with
incredible speed. You can find out for sure by checking the information within Windows Task Manager. If it appears that your
available memory is low, you can use a PC cleanup program to remove unnecessary files; such programs remove things
like temporary Internet files and other file debris that can suck away much-needed memory. Windows comes with the Disk
Cleanup utility, which cleans up many a Windows’ mess and other programs may have their own built-in utilities to clean up
their messes..
Possibility #5: Hardware Issues
If you’ve run through all of the preceding possibilities and continue experiencing frequent crashes, a hardware issue could
be to blame. An easy one to rule out is overheating. A computer’s CPU, or central processing unit, includes a fan that is
designed to keep it running cool. Sometimes, the fan wears down and doesn’t work as efficiently; other times, it’s just not
able to handle the work that your computer has to do. There are many free utilities out there that can monitor the
temperatures of your CPU, hard drive and many other points (depending on your system) so you can see if there are
overheating issues. One common source making a system run hotter is just plain dust. Check the fan vent openings on your
computer. If there’s a lot of dust accumulated on the vent, it could be restricting the air flow. Tower-PC owners can also
open up their case and look at the innards for dust accumulation. Remove any you find, but be very careful to not damage
or loosen any components. If you are still having overheating problems, and you have a tower PC, you can buy a bigger,
better fan (or multiple fans) that aren’t very expensive. If it puts an end to your PC crashing problem, it will have been more
than worth it.
Don’t put up with frequent crashes!
As discussed, frequent computer crashes can be triggered by a wide variety of issues.
Luckily, many of these issues are relatively easy to remedy. Work your way through the preceding list; chances are, you’ll be able to
pinpoint the problem and put an effective cure to work. Nine times out of ten, a computer simply needs a little bit of routine maintenance
to get it back on track again. In the future, keep these points in mind. Any time you buy a new computer, keep up with its basic
maintenance right from the get-go. By doing that, you could avoid “blue screen of death” and crashing problems altogether – and that’s
something that you (and your peace of mind) are bound to appreciate!
Morgan’s Computer Rescue & AcornMoon
George & Lynn Morgan ~ 541.825.3833 ~ morgan@morganscomputerrescue.com
**CLOSED for business, as of December 31, 2022
Thank you to our customers for the all trust and support.