Buzz
One of the most annoying issues when using Windows 11 is the Not Responding error, which causes the system to freeze temporarily, interrupting operations and making access difficult. To help you restore normal functionality, Mytour has compiled the most effective methods to fix the Not Responding error on Windows 11, along with detailed instructions.
I. Why Does Windows 11 Frequently Encounter the Not Responding Error?
There are several reasons why a Windows 11 computer may become unresponsive when performing tasks. This could stem from system-related issues or conflicts with third-party applications. Below are some common causes of the Not Responding issue on Windows 11.
- Outdated Operating System: Some users have reported that the unresponsiveness of their computers is due to bugs present in older versions of the operating system. These issues have since been resolved in newer updates. Therefore, the first solution you should try is updating your operating system to the latest version available.
- Corrupted or Damaged System Files: Occasionally, Windows 11 may become unresponsive after the computer wakes from sleep mode, which could be caused by corrupted or damaged system files. You can use built-in Windows tools or specialized software to repair and restore these files.
- Memory Issues: Errors related to computer memory can cause your system to freeze. Fortunately, Windows 11 includes a Memory Diagnostic tool to help detect and resolve memory-related problems.
- Outdated Drivers: Drivers play a crucial role in ensuring smooth computer operation. When important drivers are outdated, Windows 11 may stop responding randomly. Therefore, regularly updating your drivers can help maintain stable and optimized computer performance.
II. How to Fix the Not Responding Error on Windows 11
Before trying other solutions, you should restart or shut down your computer to rule out the possibility of a minor glitch. If this doesn’t resolve the Not Responding issue, you can proceed to try the following methods.
1. Update Windows 11
Older versions of Windows 11 may experience the Not Responding error due to operating system bugs. These issues might have already been resolved in newer updates. Therefore, updating the operating system should be the first step to take.
Step 1: Press the Windows + I keys to open Settings.
Step 2: Select Windows Update from the left navigation bar.
Step 3: Click the Check for updates button to allow the system to scan for the latest available updates.
Step 4: If a new update is available, simply click Download & install to proceed with updating your computer.
2. Perform a Clean Boot
A Clean Boot is a method that disables all non-Microsoft applications and services during system startup. This allows the computer to run only essential components, making it easier to determine if a third-party application or service is causing the 'Not Responding' error. By performing a Clean Boot, you can narrow down the cause of the issue and address it more accurately.
Step 1: Press Windows + R >> Then type msconfig and press Enter.
Step 2: In the Services tab, check the box for Hide all Microsoft services >> Then click Disable all.
Step 3: Switch to the Startup tab at the top and click Open Task Manager.
Step 4: In Task Manager, disable each application by right-clicking on it >> Then select Disable.
Step 5: Return to the System Configuration window, click Apply >> Then select OK.
Step 6: Now, proceed to restart your computer.
If the system runs smoothly after the clean boot, you can re-enable each application and service one by one to identify the one causing the issue.
3. Reinstall the Problematic Software
Incompatible software versions can lead to the Not Responding error on Windows 11. Try uninstalling the problematic software and reinstalling it or updating it to the latest version.
Step 1: Press the Windows + I keys to open Settings >> Select Apps from the left menu.
Step 2: Choose Install apps on the right-hand side.
Step 3: Now, locate the application that might be causing the issue, click the three dots next to it, and select Uninstall to remove it.
Step 4: After uninstalling the software, proceed to download and reinstall it.
4. Update Drivers
Outdated drivers, especially graphics card drivers, can cause Windows 11 to become unresponsive. Drivers play a crucial role in ensuring smooth interaction between hardware components and the operating system. When drivers are outdated or incompatible, the system may experience errors, leading to stuttering, lagging, or even freezing. Updating drivers, particularly graphics card drivers, can help stabilize the system and reduce the occurrence of the Not Responding error on Windows 11.
Step 1: Press the Windows + X keys and open Device Manager.
Step 2: Next, expand the Display adapters section >> Right-click on the graphics driver and select Update driver.
Step 3: Select Search automatically for drivers and let the system automatically find and install the latest driver.
Note: If the issue persists, you can use third-party driver update applications to ensure all drivers are updated to the latest versions.
5. Scan for Viruses and Malware
Viruses and malware can also cause your computer to freeze. Follow the steps below to clean your system and resolve the issue.
Step 1: Press the Windows + S keys >> Type Windows Security and open the corresponding application.
Step 2: Select the Virus & threat protection option.
Step 3: Now, click on Scan options to view the available virus scanning choices.
Step 4: Choose Full scan >> Then click Scan now to initiate a full system scan.
Additionally, you can use trusted third-party antivirus software if you want to perform a more thorough scan.
6. Check Memory with Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
Finally, memory (RAM) issues can also cause Windows 11 to become unresponsive. When RAM malfunctions or lacks sufficient capacity to meet system demands, it can lead to freezing or slowdowns. To identify and resolve memory-related problems, you can use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to scan and test your RAM. This tool helps detect errors and provides appropriate repair solutions, ensuring smoother system performance.
Step 1: Press Windows + S simultaneously >> Search for Windows Memory Diagnostic and open the application.
Step 2: Select Restart now and check for problems (recommended) to restart your computer and automatically check for memory errors.
Step 3: The diagnostic process will begin after the system reboots. Once completed, the system will display the test results and provide further instructions if necessary.
Simply follow the steps above to resolve the Not Responding issue on Windows 11. If the problem persists, you may need to consider upgrading your computer, particularly the RAM. Mytour thanks you for reading this article.
