Is a Windows 10 program frozen, refusing to respond? Frustrating, right? This step-by-step guide provides practical solutions to fix unresponsive applications. From simple troubleshooting like waiting and closing programs, to more advanced techniques such as using Task Manager and system file checks, we'll help you regain control and boost your productivity. Let's get your Windows 10 running smoothly again.
Methods: Troubleshooting Unresponsive Programs
Step-by-Step Instructions
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End the Unresponsive Program
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc).
- Locate the unresponsive application.
- Select the application and click 'End task'.
End the Unresponsive Program -
Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
- Go to Windows Settings (bottom left of screen).
- Navigate to 'Update & Security' -> 'Troubleshoot'.
- Click on 'Additional troubleshooters'.
- Find and run the 'Program Compatibility Troubleshooter'.
Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter - Select the problematic program.
- Click 'Next', then choose 'Try recommended settings'.
- Test the program. If it works, save the settings.
Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
Tips
- If the troubleshooter doesn't resolve the issue, proceed to the next solution.
Methods: Adjusting Application Boot Settings
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Access Application Properties
- Right-click on the application.
- Go to 'Properties' -> 'Compatibility'.
Access Application Properties -
Adjust Compatibility Settings
- Check 'Run this program as an administrator' and 'Disable fullscreen optimizations'.
- Select 'Run this program in compatibility mode for:' and choose Windows 7.
- Click 'Apply' and 'OK'.
Adjust Compatibility Settings
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Ignoring the 'Not Responding' message
Reason: Many users simply wait indefinitely for a frozen program to recover, or resort to abruptly shutting down their computer.
Solution: Try using Task Manager to end the unresponsive program's process before resorting to more drastic measures.
2. Forcefully restarting the computer too soon
Reason: While sometimes necessary, immediately restarting without trying less disruptive methods might cause data loss or system instability.
Solution: First, try using Task Manager to end the process, or wait a few minutes to see if the program recovers on its own before resorting to a restart.
3. Not updating drivers and software
Reason: Outdated drivers and software can lead to conflicts and program freezes. Users often overlook this crucial maintenance step.
Solution: Regularly update your graphics drivers, operating system, and other relevant software to reduce the risk of program unresponsiveness.
FAQs
My program is frozen, but Task Manager doesn't show it. What can I do?
If Task Manager doesn't show the unresponsive program, it likely crashed without properly registering with the system. Try restarting your computer. If the problem persists, the program itself might be corrupted. Try reinstalling it or looking for updates. A system file corruption is also possible; consider running a System File Checker (SFC) scan using the command prompt (type 'sfc /scannow' as an administrator).