Article Summary:

This article helps to resolve issues with a computer running Microsoft Windows becoming nonresponsive after the user has logged in.

Windows may display an error code associated with the lockup or error. Use the text box below to enter the error code or message displayed and select from the options to search for your specific issue:

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In many cases lockups can be caused by outdated drivers or BIOS settings. Be sure to regularly update your drivers to take full advantage of your hardware and software.

To determine if your computer is experiencing a hardware problem, run the Dell Preboot System Assessment (PSA) Diagnostics. For information on how to run Diagnostics, and to determine the issue, refer to Dell Knowledge Base Article:

Pre-Boot System Assessment (PSA) Diagnostics Error Codes

Be sure that your computer is running with the latest updates for Windows. Visit the Windows Update website to be sure your computer is fully updated.

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If your computer is locking up or hanging while using a particular application, be sure to visit the vendor's website for any updates or patches to the software.

The use of multiple anti-virus programs may cause your system to lockup. Anti-virus programs come pre-installed on most Dell Computers, so customers sometimes install other anti-virus programs without realizing that there is already a system installed. If you decide to install an alternate anti-virus software, it is important that you first uninstall any other anti-virus programs that may be running on your computer.

Choose only one anti-virus program and reinstall it. It is not recommended to have more than one anti-virus software package installed on your computer.

Malware (Virus, Spyware, etc.) can definitely cause a Windows system to lock up or appear to hang. To check for malware on your system and to ensure that your computer is up to date on security software, visit Dell Knowledge Base Article, "Remove Malware for Microsoft® Windows® XP and Windows Vista®"

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Windows XP contains a feature known as System Restore to roll back changes to the computer based on "restore points" that are commonly scheduled by Windows. To access and use this feature, refer to the link below: