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Before you start
- A moment to wait for current work
- Knowledge of what was running when it froze
A clear way through this guide.
We’ll show you one step at a time. When you’re ready, press Done — next step. You can go back or take a break whenever you like.
5 steps · Your own pace
Respond when a Windows computer stops responding
Step 1 of 5: Check whether anything responds
Try moving the pointer and switching to another app with Alt + Tab. If another app works, the problem may be limited to one programme. Avoid repeated clicks, which can queue actions and complicate recovery.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 2 of 5: Try saving and closing normally
If the app becomes responsive, save your work and close it using its normal Close control. If it says it is installing an update, follow that update’s instructions rather than interrupting it.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 3 of 5: Close only the stuck app
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc for Task Manager. Select the app you recognise as unresponsive and choose End task. This may discard its unsaved changes. Leave unfamiliar background and system processes alone.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 4 of 5: Restart through Windows
Save anything still accessible. Choose Start > Power > Restart. If Start will not open, try Ctrl + Alt + Delete and the power menu on that screen. Wait for the restart to finish before reopening everything.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 5 of 5: Use forced power only as a last resort
If no controls respond and it is not progressing through an update, follow the manufacturer’s forced-shutdown procedure. Afterwards, check recovered documents, install available updates and seek help if freezing repeats.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Take your time. Next marks this step done.
You’ve finished this guide.
Every step is complete. You can come back and practise again whenever you like.
Your small practice task.
Locate Task Manager and close it without ending any process.
Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.
A common question.
Will restarting fix the cause permanently?
Not necessarily. Repeated freezing can involve software, storage, overheating or hardware; record the pattern and seek trusted support.
Official help, if you need it.
These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.