Resolving PC Freezing and Performance Issues

Experiencing minor freezes and performance issues on your PC can be frustrating. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you resolve these issues independently, using common troubleshooting methods.

Step 1: Update Chipset Driver and BIOS

Updating your chipset driver and BIOS can resolve many performance-related issues.

Update Chipset Driver

1. Visit the Manufacturer's Website: Go to the website of your motherboard's manufacturer.
2. Locate the Support Section: Find the support or downloads section.
3. Search for Your Motherboard Model: Enter your motherboard model to find the latest chipset driver.
4. Download and Install: Download the latest driver and follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

Update BIOS

1. Check Current BIOS Version: Restart your PC and enter the BIOS setup (usually by pressing a key like F2, F10, or Del during startup). Note the current BIOS version.
2. Download Latest BIOS: On the manufacturer's website, find the latest BIOS version for your motherboard.
3. Follow Update Instructions: Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions to update the BIOS. This may involve creating a bootable USB drive.

Step 2: Reseat RAM Sticks

Reseating RAM sticks can help resolve freezing issues caused by poor connections.

1. Power Down and Unplug: Turn off your PC and unplug it from the power source.
2. Open the Case: Carefully remove the side panel of your PC case.
3. Remove RAM Sticks: Gently release the clips on either side of the RAM sticks and remove them from the slots.
4. Reinsert RAM Sticks: Reinsert the RAM sticks firmly into the slots until the clips click back into place.
5. Test with One RAM Stick: If issues persist, try running the PC with one RAM stick at a time to identify a faulty module.

Step 3: Disabling XMP and Overclock

How to Disable XMP (Extreme Memory Profile):

1. Restart Your Computer: To access BIOS/UEFI, you need to restart your PC.

2. Enter BIOS/UEFI: As your PC is restarting, press the key to enter BIOS/UEFI. This key is usually displayed on the screen during boot-up, and common keys include:

   • Delete (Del)

   • F2

   • F10

   • Esc

   If you’re unsure, check your motherboard manual or the manufacturer's website for the specific key.

3. Navigate to Memory or Overclocking Settings: Once inside the BIOS, look for settings related to Memory, DRAM, or Overclocking. This section is often under tabs like Ai Tweaker, OC, or Advanced.

4. Disable XMP: Find the setting labeled XMP, Extreme Memory Profile, or DOCP (depending on the motherboard). It will likely be set to Enabled. Change it to Disabled to turn off XMP.

5. Save and Exit: After disabling XMP, save your changes and exit the BIOS. You can usually do this by pressing F10 (or follow the on-screen instructions for your specific motherboard).

How to Disable Overclocking:

Overclocking settings (for the CPU, GPU, or RAM) can typically be disabled in BIOS as well:

Disabling CPU Overclocking:

1. Enter BIOS/UEFI (Follow the same steps as above).

2. Locate CPU Settings: In the BIOS menu, look for settings related to your CPU under OC (Overclocking), Advanced, or CPU Configuration.

3. Set CPU Multiplier to Default: If the CPU multiplier or frequency is set higher than the default, reset it to the factory settings or change the multiplier to the base value.

4. Disable Intel/AMD Turbo (if applicable): Some CPUs have an overclocking feature like Intel Turbo Boost or AMD Precision Boost. You can disable these features to prevent overclocking.

Important Notes:

• Disabling XMP will make your memory run at the default speed (usually slower than the XMP profile).

• Disabling overclocking will return your system components to their base clock speeds and voltages.

• Always save your BIOS settings before exiting, or the changes won’t take effect.

Step 4: Clear CMOS

Clearing the CMOS can reset your BIOS settings and potentially resolve performance issues.

1. Power Down and Unplug: Ensure your PC is turned off and unplugged.
2. Locate the CMOS Battery: Open the PC case and find the CMOS battery on the motherboard (a small, round, silver battery).
3. Remove the Battery: Carefully remove the battery and wait for about 20 minutes.
4. Reinsert the Battery: Place the battery back into its slot.
5. Power On the PC: Plug in and power on your PC to see if the issue is resolved.

Step 5: Adjust Power Settings

Changing your power settings to high performance can improve system stability.

1. Open Power Options: Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
2. Select High Performance: Choose the "High Performance" power plan to maximize performance.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve minor freezes and performance issues on your PC. If problems persist, consider consulting a professional technician for further assistance.