My PC started acting strangely over the past few days. First, the shutdown and restart buttons became unreliable; sometimes the computer takes 30–50 minutes to respond. Since then, applications have become extremely slow, downloads get stuck, the Recycle Bin will not open, my browser frequently becomes unresponsive, and games often will not close without using Task Manager. I have not knowingly installed anything or clicked suspicious links recently, so malware seems unlikely. The computer is about three years old, and I am not very experienced with troubleshooting. Task Manager does not show any obvious process using excessive CPU or memory. It is connected through extension cords because there are only two wall outlets in my room. Do I need to factory-reset Windows, or are there other checks I should try first?
4 Answers
Because the problems appeared suddenly over two days, try Windows System Restore or uninstalling a recent update before doing a clean reset. Restore to a point from before the symptoms began. Also run Windows' built-in system-file and disk checks. If the issue remains in Safe Mode, that makes a startup program or driver less likely and points more toward hardware or Windows itself.
Do not overlook power delivery. Test the computer from a good-quality surge-protected power strip, and if possible temporarily connect it directly to a wall outlet while troubleshooting. Avoid chaining extension leads or using a damaged strip. Find the power supply's make and model from its label, since an aging or unstable PSU can cause freezes, failed shutdowns, and seemingly unrelated errors. If the PC is still under warranty, avoid opening the power supply itself.
Before resetting Windows, check whether a background process, a disabled service, or a failing storage drive is causing the system to hang. Look at Task Manager's CPU, memory, and disk columns, check how much free space is left on the system drive, and review the drive's health with a SMART-status tool. A dying SSD or hard drive can cause apps, downloads, and shutdowns to stall even when CPU and RAM usage look normal. Back up important files immediately if the drive shows warnings or the system is making unusual noises.
A factory reset is a fallback, not the first step. Back up documents and other important data first, then test the storage drive and power supply. If the hardware checks out, a clean Windows installation can fix corrupted system files, but it will not solve a failing drive, PSU, or other hardware fault.
It began with the shutdown button failing on Monday night, and the other problems started Tuesday. I am not sure how to find the exact PC specifications, but I can check recovery options and recent updates.