Computer keeps freezing or crashing
A frozen computer is stressful, but there are safe ways to unstick it and stop it happening so often.
Be careful: If the computer is also very hot or shuts off by itself, it may be overheating. Turn it off and let it cool before using it again.
What to do
Pick your kind of computer:
Not sure? How to tell which computer you have
Step 1: Wait one or two minutes. Sometimes it's just busy and will catch up.
Step 2: Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete together, then choose Task Manager.
Step 3: Click the program that's stuck and click End task. Unsaved work in that program may be lost.
Step 4: If nothing responds at all, hold the power button for 10 seconds until it turns off, then turn it on again.
Step 5: Once it's working, open Settings, choose Windows Update, and install all updates.
Step 6: Check you have free space in Settings, then System, then Storage.
Step 7: Run a virus scan in Windows Security, under Virus & threat protection, then Quick scan.
Step 1: Wait one or two minutes in case it's just busy.
Step 2: Press Option + Command + Esc together to open Force Quit.
Step 3: Select the app that's stuck and click Force Quit. Unsaved work in that app may be lost.
Step 4: If nothing responds at all, hold the power button for 10 seconds until it turns off, then turn it on again.
Step 5: Install updates: open System Settings, then General, then Software Update.
Step 6: Check you have free space in General, then Storage.
Step 1: Press Search + Esc to open Task Manager.
Step 2: Select the tab or app that's stuck and click End process.
Step 3: If nothing responds, hold the power button until it turns off, then turn it on again.
Step 4: Check for updates in Settings, then About ChromeOS.
Still stuck? If it keeps freezing, take it to a trusted repair shop or the maker's support, as a part like the memory or drive may be failing.