Member Avatar for dcr63

I'm not really sure what's going on but every so often my computer will shut down and reboot, it's done this for a while and has been A problem for a while now.

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A few focused diagnostics will find the cause faster than guessing. described random reboots; called out a possible virus and already covered many basic hardware checks. Before swapping parts, collect data that points to either software (drivers, OS) or failing hardware.

Check Windows crash data and logs first. Look in Event Viewer (Windows Logs -> System/Application) for error entries around the reboot time and note any bugcheck codes or Kernel-Power entries. Locate any minidump files in C:\Windows\Minidump and analyze them with a small reader like BlueScreenView or use Microsofts WinDbg documentation for deeper analysis (WinDbg docs). The dump will often name a driver or module that triggered the fault.

Run targeted tests that won’t duplicate the checks already suggested. Use Memtest86+ to stress-test RAM overnight. Use a SMART tool such as CrystalDiskInfo to check the hard drive for early failures. Log CPU/GPU temperatures and motherboard voltages with a tool like HWMonitor while reproducing the problem; sustained abnormal readings point to cooling or power delivery issues. For older systems, visually inspect electrolytic capacitors for bulging or leakage (a known failure mode—see capacitor plague notes) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitor_plague].

Record exact event IDs, minidump bugcheck codes, memtest errors, SMART attributes and temperature/voltage readings. Back up important files before stress testing. If analysis names a driver, update or roll it back; if hardware tests fail, replace the failing component or have a bench technician verify it. Posting the collected logs and dump codes will make troubleshooting much quicker.

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Member Avatar for kccomputerdr

Virus! Virus! Virus!

Member Avatar for BuggZ

As stated in other reply, check for virus first.
Does the problem happen right after booting or does the computer run for a while (cold vs warm problem)?
Here are some other things to do:
1. Go to Control Panel >> "System" icon >> "Advanced" tab >> Select "Settings" button under "Startup and Recovery" and uncheck "Automatically Restart" under System failure.
2. Check input power into the system or connect system to an UPS
3. Check that the memory is properly seated.
4. Check that your CPU fan is working properly.
5. Check for a weak power supply
6. Try booting from a live CD like Knoppix and run the computer for a while. If no reboots occur then you may have a software / driver conflict.
7. Remove / disconnect all components from system except essential components required to boot machine (RAM, boot drive, video card) and check if problem is still present. If problem is fixed reconnect / reinstall components one at a time until problem returns.

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