Alternatively called a system crash, a crash describes a software program or hardware problem that is encountered without warning. A crash is often caused by a software error, where either the programming has errors or it has conflicts with other programs. A crash may also occur because of a hardware problem, such as a failing component. For example, when a hard drive dies, it’s often called a hard drive crash.

What to do if my computer is crashing?

If your computer is crashing without any errors, start at our basic troubleshooting overview. If you’re getting an error, try searching for that error.

If you believe a hardware component in your computer is causing it to crash, see our hardware troubleshooting steps for the device you believe failed. Once the failed hardware component is identified, it’s replaced and, in some cases, may be repaired by a qualified technician.

Close, Computer slang, Crash to desktop, Dump, Error, Panic, Software terms

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