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Why Does My PC Keep Restarting Randomly? [Solved]

Updated: Dec 7

Man sitting on floor with disassembled computer parts, holding head in frustration. Tools and open case nearby, bright room background.

Let’s Dive In | Fixing PC Auto Restart Issue


Few things are more frustrating than sitting down to work or game, only to have your PC randomly restart without warning. If this is happening to you, don't worry - you’re not alone, and yes, there are solutions.



In this guide, we'll break down the most common causes and how to fix each one step-by-step.


Common Reasons Why PC Keeps Restarting Randomly 🔍

Let’s first understand the root causes. PC keeps restarting randomly due to many reasons such as:


  1. Power Supply Issues

    Your PC needs consistent power. A failing SMPS (power supply unit) or unstable electricity can cause your system to reboot randomly.


    How To Fix:


  • Make sure your PC is connected to a surge protector or UPS.


  • If you're on a desktop, consider testing with another PSU.


  • Check if your power cable is loosely connected.


  1. Overheating (CPU/GPU) 🌡️

    Computers are smart they shut down or restart when components like the CPU or GPU get too hot to prevent damage.


    How To Fix:


  • Install tools like HWMonitor, Core Temp, or MSI Afterburner to monitor temperatures.


  • Clean the fans and heatsinks using compressed air.


  • Reapply thermal paste if it's been over 1–2 years.


  1. Faulty RAM

    Bad or loosely seated RAM sticks are a very common but overlooked issue.


    How To Fix:


Windows Memory Diagnostic pop-up with options: "Restart now and check for problems" or "Check for problems the next time I start my computer."
  • Use Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86 to test RAM.


  • Press (Win + R) and Type “mdsched” in the Run dialog


  • Reseat the RAM modules take them out and insert them back carefully.


  • If you have multiple sticks, try running one at a time to isolate the faulty one.


  1. Driver or Hardware Conflicts 🔌

    Outdated or buggy drivers can make your PC unstable, especially GPU, chipset, and network drivers.


How To Fix:


  • Open Device Manager and check for any yellow exclamation signs.


  • Update drivers using Windows Update or tools like Driver Booster.


  • Roll back recent driver updates if the problem started recently.


Windows Update screen showing system is up to date. Options include pause updates, update history. Left menu lists system settings.

  1. Malware or Viruses 🦠

    Some malware forces your system to restart, especially if it’s attacking system files or services.


How To Fix:


  • Run a full system scan with Windows Defender or trusted antivirus software like Malwarebytes, Avast or Avira


  • Remove suspicious apps or extensions you didn’t install.



  1. System Settings / Automatic Restart Enabled ⚙️

    Windows has a default setting that automatically restarts your PC in case of a crash or BSOD.


How To Fix:


  1. Right-click on This PC > Properties.


  2. Go to Advanced System Settings > Startup and Recovery.


  3. Under “System failure,” uncheck “Automatically restart”.


Windows settings window showing System Properties in the About section. "Start-up and Recovery" option is highlighted in red.

Now, if there's an error, your PC will show the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) instead of restarting instantly, giving you more clues.


  1. Corrupted System Files or Software Conflicts 💾

    Sometimes, corrupted Windows system files can cause your PC to act weird, including random restarts.


How To Fix:


  • Open Command Prompt as Admin and run:

    sfc /scannow


  • If issues are found, let Windows fix them.


  • You can also try DISM:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Command Prompt window with text "Microsoft Windows Version 10.0.26100.3775" and "sfc /scannow" command entered, black background.

  1. Windows Update Glitches 🔄

    An incomplete or buggy update can mess with your system's stability.


    How To Fix:


  • Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update History.


  • Uninstall recent updates if issues began afterward.


  • Run Windows Update Troubleshooter.

Windows Update settings screen showing "You're up to date" status. Options include pausing updates and joining the Insider Program.

  1. Faulty Peripherals 🔌

    Believe it or not, a bad USB device, keyboard, or mouse can cause system instability.


    How To Fix:


  • Disconnect all external devices.


  • Reboot and observe.


  • Add them back one by one to find the culprit.


  1. BIOS or Motherboard Issues 🧱

    In rare cases, your motherboard BIOS might be outdated or corrupted.


    How To Fix:


  • Check your motherboard model and visit the manufacturer’s site.


  • Update the BIOS carefully (only if you're confident or guided).


  • Reset BIOS to default settings as a safer first step.


Bonus Tip: Check the Event Viewer 🧠

Want to know what happened right before the restart?


  1. Press Win + X and select Event Viewer.


  2. Navigate to Windows Logs > System.


  3. Look for Critical or Error entries around the restart time.


This can give valuable clues!


Quick Troubleshooting Checklist 🛠️

Step

Action

Check for overheating

Run antivirus scan

Update drivers

Disable auto-restart

Test RAM & PSU

Run SFC & DISM tools

Unplug unnecessary Devices

Check for BIOS updates



Illustration of a computer case with labeled components: power supply, RAM, motherboard. Warning symbols and a sad face indicate issues.

Key Takeaways 💡


Random restarts aren’t just annoying - they can signal serious hardware or software issues. The good news is, most of these can be fixed at home without spending money, especially if you're a bit tech-savvy. If you've tried all of the above and your PC still restarts randomly, it may be time to consult a professional technician or at least get your PSU and motherboard tested.


Was this guide helpful? If yes, do share it with someone facing the same problem. Have questions or want a personal diagnosis? Drop a comment or reach out on our social media!


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