How to Fix Random Restarts with No Obvious Error

🔧Step-by-Step Fixes

Fix 1: Disable Automatic Restart on System Failure

Windows automatically restarts when certain errors occur, hiding the actual error message. Let's turn that off so we can see what's happening:

1. Press Windows + X and select System
2. Scroll down and click Advanced system settings on the right
3. Under the Advanced tab, click Settings in the Startup and Recovery section
4. Under System failure, uncheck the box that says Automatically restart
5. Click OK to save

Now if there's an error causing the restart, you'll see a blue screen with error codes instead of an automatic reboot. Write down the error code and search for it online.

Fix 2: Check Windows Event Viewer for Clues

Windows logs all system events, including what happens before unexpected restarts:

1. Press Windows + X and select Event Viewer
2. Expand Windows Logs and click System
3. Look for red error icons around the time of your last restart
4. Common culprits include "Kernel-Power" (power issues), "Critical" errors, or driver failures
5. Double-click errors to read details
6. Search online for any error codes you find

Fix 3: Update All Drivers (Especially Graphics)

Faulty drivers, particularly graphics drivers, can cause system crashes:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager
2. Expand Display adapters
3. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers
5. Also update Network adapters and Chipset drivers
6. Restart after updates complete

For Nvidia or AMD graphics cards, visit their websites directly for the latest drivers rather than relying on Windows Update.

Fix 4: Test for Overheating

Overheating protection causes automatic shutdowns that look like random restarts:

1. Download free software like HWMonitor or Core Temp
2. Run the program and monitor temperatures during normal use
3. Watch especially during the activities that usually cause restarts
4. If CPU temps exceed 85°C (185°F) or GPU temps exceed 90°C (194°F), you have an overheating problem
5. Clean all vents and fans with compressed air
6. Make sure the computer has good ventilation and isn't in an enclosed space

Fix 5: Check Power Supply

An insufficient or failing power supply can cause random restarts, especially during demanding tasks:

1. If you have a desktop, make sure the power cable is firmly connected at both ends
2. Try a different wall outlet or power strip
3. For laptops, try using only AC power (remove the battery if possible) to see if restarts stop
4. Listen for unusual noises from the power supply when restarts occur

Desktop power supplies can fail over time, especially if they're undersized for your system.

Fix 6: Scan for Malware

Some malware causes system instability and random reboots:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings
2. Go to Privacy & Security > Windows Security
3. Click Virus & threat protection
4. Select Scan options and choose Full scan
5. Click Scan now and wait for completion
6. Remove any detected threats and restart

Fix 7: Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup can cause conflicts with power management:

1. Press Windows + R, type powercfg.cpl, press Enter
2. Click Choose what the power buttons do
3. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable
4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended)
5. Click Save changes