Experiencing a Windows 11 boot loop can be incredibly frustrating, transforming your computer into a seemingly endless cycle of restarts that disrupts productivity. When your system continuously fails to load the login screen and instead repeatedly attempts to restart, you're facing a critical technical issue that demands immediate attention.

This persistent reboot problem can stem from various causes. So, what do you do? Let's look at some ways to diagnose and resolve the Windows 11 boot loop, helping you restore your computer's functionality and get back to work.

I’M GIVING AWAY THE LATEST & GREATEST AIRPODS PRO 2

Enter the giveaway by signing up for my free newsletter.

There's no single cause for a Windows 11 PC getting stuck in a reboot loop. A reboot loop can be caused by an issue with your computer's power supply, a malware infection, overheating or even hardware drivers. Here are the different things to check if your Windows 11 laptop or desktop keeps restarting.

When you are troubleshooting any problem on your PC, you should boot your computer in safe mode. If your PC is in safe mode and no longer experiences the restart loop, this means that the default Windows 11 settings and drivers aren't causing the issue. This allows you to narrow down the sources of problems causing your Windows 11 PC to crash, making it easier to troubleshoot. Here's what you need to do to boot in safe mode:

When your computer restarts, it will automatically restart in safe mode. If your computer restarting is making it difficult to follow these steps, you can also follow these steps at the sign-in screen:

Now, when your PC restarts, you will be presented with a list of options. Select 4 or F4 to start your PC in safe mode. If you need to use the internet while the computer is in safe mode, you can select option 5 or press F5.

WINDOWS 11 TIPS AND TRICKS YOU DIDN'T KNOW YOU NEEDED

If your automatic rebooting problem began after installing a new app, uninstall that app and monitor your PC. If you still notice your PC restarting, there's a chance that the app has infected your system settings before you uninstalled it. To fix this, you'll need to restore the system. To do a system restore, you should first boot your PC in safe mode and then follow these steps:

An overheating laptop or desktop will try to prevent damage to critical hardware components by shutting itself down. This is one of the leading causes of a Windows 11 PC getting stuck in a restart loop. If you've noticed your desktop giving off a lot more heat than usual or a laptop feeling hot to the touch, chances are you have an overheating issue.

A computer's CPU and GPU generate the most heat, so I recommend monitoring those hardware pieces to see if they are overheating. You don't need any additional software to monitor the temperatures of your GPU, as some temperature readings are built into Windows 11. Here's how to check your hardware temperatures in Windows 11:

Unfortunately, the built-in temperature reading doesn't read your CPU temperature, and you'll need to manually go into the UEFI/BIOS to check the temperature without installing any additional software. However, there's a multitude of free-to-use apps that manufacturers have developed to measure your CPU temperature, including Core Temp, HWMonitor or Open Hardware Monitor.

When you open one of these monitoring tools, you'll be able to view your PC's stats, including CPU and GPU temperatures and loads. If your CPU or GPU is running too hot, try cleaning the components to remove dust. For custom-built desktops, adding more exhaust fans to the case can improve airflow and cooling. Persistent overheating, especially in older laptops, may indicate that it's time to consider upgrading your machine.

TAKE YOUR WINDOWS PC'S SECURITY TO THE NEXT LEVEL

A computer will randomly restart when it has a failing power supply unit (PSU). If you have an issue with your power supply, you'll know if your computer won't restart or turn on. In addition to causing shut-offs and restart loops, a faulty power supply can also cause a blue screen of death error. In severe cases, you might even smell a burning scent or witness smoke coming from your PC's power supply exhaust vent. If you use a laptop with PSU issues, you cannot send your computer to a repair shop or the manufacturer for repair.

Desktop PC owners have it a bit easier, assuming they have a pre-built PC that can be altered easily. If you do have a desktop, turn off and unplug your computer before going into the case to investigate if dust build-up is affecting your PSU. If your PSU fails, you must purchase and install a new one.

Malware and other viruses are a common cause of a crashing or constantly restarting PC. The easiest way to do this is by using strong antivirus software. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

If your computer is stuck rebooting, you may need to boot in safe mode in order to run an antivirus application. Here's what you need to do to boot your PC in safe mode with Windows 11:

Now, your computer should act more stable after booting in safe mode, allowing you to run an antivirus scan.

10 USEFUL WINDOWS KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS YOU NEED TO KNOW

If you have automatic restart enabled in Windows 11, your PC will restart every time it encounters a system failure. You can easily disable this future within the Windows 11 command prompt. Here's what you need to do:

Keep in mind this isn't a fix for the problem, but it will help you further troubleshoot the restart loop problem by disabling automatic restarts.

An issue with your Windows 11 system files may be causing your PC to constantly restart. If you think a corrupted system file is why your PC keeps restarting, there's a quick and easy fix you can do within the Windows Powershell. The System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in tool that will scan your Windows system files for corruption or any other changes. If a system file has been modified, it will automatically replace the file with the correct version. Here's how to run the SFC command:

If there's no problem with your Windows system files, after the scan, you'll see a message that says, "Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations." If you instead see a message saying, "Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them," you should try running SFC again but in safe mode.

Your PC might be restarting itself because it doesn't have access to enough random access memory (RAM). Windows 11 may become unstable without enough RAM in your computer, causing the OS to randomly reboot. You can use the built-in Memory Diagnostics Tool in Windows 11 to check your computer for issues related to RAM. Here's what you need to do:

When your PC restarts, the Windows Memory Diagnostics Tool will check for any RAM-related issues; if the test detects an error, take note of the error code. You can check the error code online to find the correct fix for that specific error.

These are the best fixes for a computer that is constantly restarting. While you can perform these fixes at home, it might be your best bet to send your computer to a repair shop or back to the manufacturer if you continue having an issue with your Windows 11 PC being stuck in a restart loop after these fixes. It also may be time to invest in a new laptop if you are experiencing a system slowdown and random restarting on your Windows 11 PC, but I would recommend trying to fix the problem first before buying a new machine.

What was the most challenging computer technical issue you've ever encountered, and how did you resolve it? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, many people like yourself are seeking effective ways to safeguard their online presence. That includes Keith from Lisbon, Iowa, who asked, "If I have a VPN, do I still need an antivirus app?"

The answer is a resounding yes. While a VPN (virtual private network) provides crucial privacy and security benefits, it doesn't protect your device from malware, viruses or other cyber threats. Let's get into why you need both and how they complement each other to provide comprehensive digital security.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS - SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER - THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

To achieve comprehensive online security, it’s crucial to understand the distinct yet complementary roles that VPNs and antivirus software play in protecting your digital life.

A VPN is your first line of defense for online privacy and security. It works by:

1) Encrypting your internet connection: This makes it extremely difficult for hackers, ISPs or other third parties to intercept and read your data.

2) Masking your IP address: By hiding your real IP address, a VPN allows you to browse the internet anonymously, making it harder for websites and advertisers to track your online activities.

3) Bypassing geo-restrictions: VPNs can help you access content that might be blocked in your region, giving you more freedom online.

BEST ANTIVIRUS FOR MAC, PC, IPHONES AND ANDROIDS - CYBERGUY PICKS

While a VPN protects your online activities, antivirus software focuses on defending your device itself. Here's what antivirus does:

1) Malware detection and removal: Antivirus software scans your device for viruses, trojans, spyware and other malicious software, then removes or quarantines these threats.

2) Real-time protection: Modern antivirus programs continuously monitor your system, preventing malware from infecting your device in the first place.

3) Phishing protection: Many antivirus solutions include features that block malicious websites and warn you about potential phishing attempts.

WINDOWS FLAW LETS HACKERS SNEAK INTO YOUR PC OVER WI-FI

VPNs and antivirus software serve different but complementary purposes in your digital security arsenal.

VPNs secure your internet connection: They focus on protecting your data as it travels across the internet, ensuring your online activities remain private. Using a VPN service can enhance your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic, making it harder for hackers and third parties to intercept your data, especially on public Wi-Fi. A VPN masks your IP address, helping to obscure your location and online activity. While VPNs don’t directly prevent phishing emails, they reduce the exposure of your browsing habits to trackers that may use this data maliciously. With a VPN, you can securely access your email accounts from anywhere, even in areas with restrictive internet policies. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

Antivirus protects your device: It guards against threats that could compromise your device's security, regardless of how they reach your system. Therefore, it's important to have strong antivirus software actively running on your devices. Antivirus software helps protect your devices from malware, viruses and other security threats. Regularly update the software to ensure it can detect and remove the latest threats.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

By using both a VPN and strong antivirus software, you create a robust defense system that protects both your online activities and your device itself.

CYBER SCAMMERS USE AI TO MANIPULATE GOOGLE SEARCH RESULTS

Remember, Keith and the rest of you: Cybersecurity is not about choosing between a VPN and antivirus; it's about leveraging both to create a multi-layered defense against the ever-evolving landscape of online threats. Combining these two powerful tools allows you to enjoy a safer, more secure and more private online experience.

What are your biggest cybersecurity concerns, and what specific help would you like from us to address them? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Are you dealing with a Windows PC or laptop that won't stop crashing? Maybe your PC is constantly freezing or displaying error messages. 

We know how frustrating a PC that won't work right can be. Luckily, there are some easy ways to fix a Windows PC that is consistently crashing. 

Today, we'll review nine easy fixes you can do at home if you have a Windows PC that won't stop crashing on you. Let's get into it.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS - SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER - THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

While it might sound obvious, the first step to troubleshooting a computer that constantly crashes is ensuring everything is firmly plugged in. It's often the most overlooked step, so if you're using a desktop, you'll want to look behind your PC and ensure everything is plugged in. It would be best to try using a different electrical outlet to first rule out any electrical issues in your home.

If you feel comfortable opening up your desktop PC, you can also go inside the case and ensure all your PCI connections are firmly plugged in. You'll want to ensure all your cables going to the power supply are firmly connected, and the same is true with the PCI power cables that supply electricity to the GPU and CPU.

HOW TO FINALLY RESOLVE THE RED SCREEN OF DEATH ON WINDOWS 10

Computer overheating is a common cause of intermittent shutdowns and crashes. If your CPU (central processing unit), essentially the brain of your computer, or graphics card gets too hot, your computer might shut down to ensure the components aren't damaged. If you notice that your laptop or desktop is giving off a lot of heat, or in the case of a laptop, it is hot to the touch, or if you notice your fans running louder than usual, these are all signs of overheating.

If your computer is overheating, the first step is to clean it thoroughly. I recommend blowing dust out of the interior fans with compressed air and keeping your PC in an area where it can receive proper airflow. If you have a desktop PC, try not to keep it under your desk. Keeping a PC under a desk can cause issues with dust build-up and lack of airflow. It's best to keep your desktop in a part of your home or office where it can receive a decent amount of airflow.

WINDOWS UPDATE FLAW COULD BE A HIDDEN GATEWAY TO ZOMBIE VULNERABILITIES

If your cables are all plugged in correctly and your computer isn't overheating, it's time to boot your Windows PC into safe mode. Booting into safe mode allows you to run your PC with the necessary files and drivers turned on to make the PC run. That way, you can determine if new software or hardware conflicts with your PC, causing it to crash. While in safe mode, you can access Windows error logs and run other diagnostics to figure out what is causing your PC to crash. 

TAKE YOUR WINDOWS PC'S SECURITY TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH THESE SIMPLE STEPS

There are a few different ways to boot into Windows safe mode, and it is a bit different depending on whether you are using Windows 10 or 11. To start, here's how you can boot into safe mode on Windows 10 from the settings panel:

Click System

Your computer will restart again, and this time, your computer will boot into safe mode.

The process is slightly different if you use a Windows 11 PC instead of a Windows 10 machine. Here's what to do if you are using a Windows 11 PC:

Once your computer restarts, it will automatically boot into safe mode.

Now that you're in safe mode, you should look at the Windows logs. You can access the Windows error logs through the Event Viewer. Here's how to access the Windows Event Viewer:

An outdated version of Windows can cause conflicts with both your software and even hardware components in your PC. This is a major cause of PC crashes, so you'll want to ensure your Windows operating system is entirely up to date. Here's how to run a system update on Windows:

Even if you don't own any antivirus software, you should at least run a scan with the built-in Windows Defender. Here's how to access Windows Defender and run an antivirus scan:

While Windows Defender offers robust, built-in security for Windows users, it has limitations in areas like phishing and spam protection and may not update as swiftly as some premium solutions. To stay protected from malicious links, phishing scams and ransomware, consider investing in strong antivirus software. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

You can use the Windows Command Prompt to check your hard drive for errors. If your hard drive has an error, you might need to perform a system restore, which we'll discuss later. For now, here's how to use the command prompt to check for hard drive errors:

The command prompt will now check your hard drive for corrupt files and replace them. This may take some time. Once the process is complete, and you have errors that cannot be automatically replaced, you will unfortunately need to replace your hard drive and reinstall Windows.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Issues with your PC's RAM can also cause your Windows PC to crash randomly. More often than not, if you have an issue with your RAM, you'll need to replace the RAM modules on the motherboard. This can be done at home quickly if you have the technical knowledge, but you can also go into any computer shop to get your RAM replaced for a small fee. Here's how to check for issues with your RAM on your Windows PC:

Now, your computer will run through a memory check, and if you encounter an issue, beware that you might have to replace your RAM.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

If your PC just started crashing, you might be able to fix the issue by performing a system restore. A system restore will restore your Windows operating system to a specific date and time of your choosing. This way, you can restore your OS to a point before the crash begins and troubleshoot from there. It's important to note that when you perform a system restore, your computer will be restored as it was on the date and time you chose. This means you will lose any recent files or settings, so this should be a last-step solution in your troubleshooting process.

SUBSCRIBE TO KURT’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR QUICK VIDEO TIPS ON HOW TO WORK ALL OF YOUR TECH DEVICES

Having a Windows PC that won't stop crashing can be a massive headache. Luckily, there's a lot of information out there on how to troubleshoot a PC that just won't stop crashing. I've gone over nine of the most commonly used tips to fix a crashing Windows PC, but there's other reset options out there, many of which require a higher degree of technical ability than what we've gone through today.

What do you find most challenging about using a Windows PC today? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover

Follow Kurt on his social channels

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

Computers are a significant investment, especially for those on fixed incomes. Fortunately, with proper care and maintenance, older computers can remain secure and functional for years. Let's address a concern from Connie in Rochester, Minnesota, who wrote to us about her older computer's vulnerability to hackers:

"I'm still using Windows 7 on my 2013 computer. It says I have Security Essentials, but I saw somewhere that it ended in 2023? When I click on it, it says it's scanning, but am I protected or not? I pay yearly for MSN extra and use an iPhone 14. All the worrisome reports make a senior citizen a little nervous. What's your advice? A new computer? Will your virus protection be compatible with my old computer? I'm not keen on spending more on a new computer on a fixed budget."

This question is relevant to many users with older computers. Let's dive deeper into the situation and provide some comprehensive advice for Connie and others in similar situations.

I’M GIVING AWAY A $500 GIFT CARD FOR THE HOLIDAYS - Ends today at 3 pm ET

Enter by signing up for my free newsletter.

Using Windows 7 does pose significant security risks. Since Jan. 14, 2020, Microsoft has stopped providing security updates and technical support for Windows 7. This means that any new vulnerabilities discovered in the operating system will not be patched, leaving your computer exposed to potential attacks.

Since the start of 2023, 47 vulnerabilities have been discovered in Windows 7. Cybercriminals actively target outdated operating systems because they're more likely to be unpatched and vulnerable. Without official support, Microsoft is no longer compelled to disclose formal vulnerabilities, making it harder for users to stay informed about potential security risks.

Connie, you mentioned that you have Microsoft Security Essentials installed. Unfortunately, this software also stopped receiving updates on January 14, 2020. While it may still scan your computer, it's not providing up-to-date protection against new threats.

TOP WAYS TO OPTIMIZE YOUR PC AND MAC DEVICES

Given the security risks, it's advisable to take action. Here are some options to consider:

1) Upgrading your operating system or computer: While it’s possible to continue using Windows 7 with a third-party antivirus, it’s generally recommended to upgrade to a newer operating system for the best security. If your current computer meets the system requirements, you could consider upgrading to Windows 10 or even Windows 11. However, if a new computer isn’t in your budget right now, using a supported antivirus on your Windows 7 machine is a good step.

2) Install strong antivirus software: If upgrading isn't possible immediately, install a strong, reputable, up-to-date antivirus software that's compatible with Windows 7. However, keep in mind that this is a temporary solution and doesn't address all the vulnerabilities in the operating system itself. There are several antivirus programs that continue to support Windows 7. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

3) Consider a new computer: While it's understandable that you're on a fixed budget, investing in a new computer might be the most cost-effective solution in the long run. New computers come with the latest operating systems and security features, providing better protection against current threats. You can see our picks for a variety of laptop computers and desktop computers (at a variety of price ranges). If you decide to upgrade and get a new computer, check out how to securely get rid of your old PC or Mac.

HOW TO SAFEGUARD YOUR OLDER PC

You might be wondering if it's really that dangerous if you're careful about what you download. The truth is, even if you're cautious, you're still at risk. Modern malware can be incredibly sophisticated. There's a type of threat called a "persistent threat" that can hide on your machine indefinitely, continuously monitoring your computer and stealing information without you even knowing it.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

Let's address two other points you made in your email to us. Your iPhone 14 is not affected by the Windows 7 issue. Apple regularly updates its iOS software, providing security patches for supported devices. So, make sure your iPhone's software is up to date to ensure you have the latest security features. Here's how:

As for MSN Extra, while it may provide some additional features, it doesn't compensate for the lack of operating system security updates.

10 TIPS TO SPEED UP YOUR PC'S PERFORMANCE

Look, Connie, I know all this tech stuff can be overwhelming, but here's the deal: While we can't make your computer 100% hacker-proof, these steps will definitely up your security game. Keep your eyes peeled when you're checking emails or downloading stuff, especially if it's from someone you don't know. Now, about getting a new computer. I get it, it's not cheap. But think about it this way: It's like insurance for your digital life. The headache and costs of dealing with a hacked computer? Trust me, that's way worse. In this day and age, when we're all connected 24/7, keeping your digital self safe is super important. So, if you can swing it, seriously think about upgrading your system or getting a new computer with all the latest security bells and whistles. Bottom line? Taking these steps isn't just about protection. It's about giving yourself peace of mind every time you hop online. And let's face it, that's pretty priceless.

What are your biggest challenges when it comes to maintaining your devices and why? Share your tech hacks by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.