PC keeps freezing

[jester05]

I am running winxp home and my pc keeps freezing randomly and the only way to unlock it is to switch it off and on but sometimes when i switch it back on it will freeze at the splash screen. Has anyone any idea what i can do to fix this?

[vehelpfulguy]

It could be over heating.

Make sure there is plenty of space round the case for cool air to get in and hot air to get out and disperse.

Sometimes dust and dirt get inside the case and block the fans and heat sinks so it runs hot. Some devices stop working when they get too hot.

If you are happy to do this, open the case and use a hair drier to blow out and dust and dirt (best do this outside).

If there is any stubborn dirt gently move it with a piece of wood (lollystick?) and then blow it out.

Brush off any dust and dirt on the fans with a CLEAN paint brush or other small brush.

Give it one last blow with the hair drier, put the cover back on, and connect it all up and try again.

[jester05]

thanks for your answer but i run it with the side cover off and there is plenty of ventilation that was my first thought.

[naz_nomad]

If you're running it with the side-cover off it will actually get hotter ,,,there isn't a proper airflow through the case ...

[Mac70]

Running it with the cover off isnt advisable. Cases are designed with airflow in mind, removing the cover will disrupt that.
I had a similar prob but it was down to a USB modem. Once I removed it no more freezing.

[biggazu]

your cpu processor is getting way way way to hot. You need a new cooler. This will help. But never run a pc with the covers off. Design of the case is to flow flesh air round and out the rear of the case. Also maybe move it away from any heating appliance, If never.