A computer that keeps restarting on its own during normal use is different from a blue screen stop, and different from a Windows update that sits on Working on updates. Often a new USB device, overheating, a pending restart after updates, or Windows set to reboot after a crash is enough to explain it. Work through these steps in order. If you see a blue screen with a stop code, also read /help/windows-blue-screen-what-to-do/. If the screen stays on Working on updates for a long time, see /help/windows-update-stuck-working-on-updates/. Never call a number from a popup, and never pay with gift cards or give AnyDesk access to a stranger.
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Steps
Write down when it restarts. Note whether it happens while browsing, after sleep, only on battery, right after you plug something in, or at random. That note helps you and anyone who helps you later.
Unplug new USB devices. Remove printers, hubs, external drives, webcams and dongles you added recently. Leave the keyboard and mouse if you need them. Restart once and see if the reboot loop stops.
Check heat and airflow. Make sure the laptop or desktop sits on a hard flat surface, not a bed or couch. Clear dust from vents with a dry cloth or gentle canned air held upright. If the case or bottom is very hot before it restarts, let it cool fully, then try again.
Plug a laptop into the charger. Low battery, a failing battery, or a loose charger can make some laptops power off and come back on. Use the original charger when you can, and try a wall outlet instead of a strip.
Check for a pending Windows update restart. Open Settings, then Windows Update. If it says Restart required, save your work and use Restart now from that page once, rather than fighting surprise restarts.
Turn off Automatic restart after a failure. Press Windows key + R, type sysdm.cpl, press Enter. Open the Advanced tab, under Startup and Recovery click Settings, then uncheck Automatically restart. Click OK. This lets you read an error on screen instead of a quick reboot.
Check power settings. Open Settings, then System, then Power and battery (or Power and sleep). Set sleep and screen times to values you expect. Turn off any Fast startup option you see under related power settings if restarts feel random after you shut down.
If you are comfortable, open Event Viewer briefly. Press Windows key + X, open Event Viewer, then Windows Logs, then System. Look near the time of a restart for Kernel-Power, BugCheck or unexpected shutdown entries. You do not need to fix codes yourself; a note of the time and source is enough.
If Windows cannot stay up long enough to use, try Safe Mode. Hold Shift while you click Restart on the Start menu, then choose Troubleshoot, Advanced options, Startup Settings, Restart, then Safe Mode. In Safe Mode uninstall a recent program or undo a driver change if you know what changed.
If it still will not stay up, use Startup Repair from the same Advanced options menu, or try System Restore to a date before the restarts began. Restore does not remove your personal files.
Never call a phone number from a popup, search ad or email that says your PC is failing and needs remote repair. Never pay with gift cards. Never give remote access with AnyDesk or TeamViewer to someone who contacted you. Real Microsoft support will not cold call you about restarts.
Common questions
Why does my computer restart by itself with no blue screen?
Pending updates, overheating, a new USB device, low laptop battery, or Windows set to reboot after a crash are common causes. The steps above cover those first. A blue screen path is covered in /help/windows-blue-screen-what-to-do/.
Is this the same as a Windows update stuck loop?
No. An update stuck on Working on updates or Do not turn off your computer is a different problem. Use /help/windows-update-stuck-working-on-updates/ for that. This page is for unexpected restarts during normal use.
Should I buy a new computer?
Usually not yet. If it powers on, you can reach Settings or Safe Mode, and heat or a recent device change is involved, most people fix it without a new PC.
What if it restarts every few minutes and I cannot finish a step?
Use Safe Mode or Startup Repair from the advanced startup menu, or ask someone nearby to help while you stay on the phone. Do not let a popup tech take remote control.
Can Ellis help me with this?
Yes. Ellis can talk you through each step by phone while you sit at the computer, and will never ask for your passwords or bank details. Ellis is an AI assistant, and it will tell you so.
Free human help is at capacity right now. If you want help while you fix this, Ellis, our AI assistant, can help you by phone now. The first 5 minutes are free when you call (928) 272-0355. If you want more time, phone help is $19 one time for up to 30 minutes, used over 14 days. No subscription. Ellis is an AI and can make mistakes.