How to Fix Windows computer shuts down when playing or watching videos

Learn how to troubleshoot and fix the issue of your Windows computer shutting down unexpectedly while playing or watching videos. Find solutions on our website now.

It can be incredibly frustrating when you are in the middle of watching your favorite movie or playing an intense game on your computer and suddenly, the system shuts down. This is a common issue faced by many Windows users, and it is often caused by a variety of reasons. However, the most common reason for a computer shutting down when playing videos is an underlying hardware or software issue. If you are facing this problem, don't worry, as there are several ways to fix it. In this article, we will discuss some effective solutions to resolve the issue of a Windows computer shutting down when playing videos.

1. Verify the Graphics card and driver

The first thing you need to check is your graphics card and driver. Many times, an outdated or faulty graphics card can cause your computer to shut down when playing videos. To check if your graphics card is the culprit, you can run a stress test using a program like FurMark. If your computer crashes during the test, it is a clear indication that your graphics card is not working properly. In such a case, you can either update your graphics card driver or replace the card if it is faulty.

2. Replace PSU (if applicable)

If you have a powerful graphics card and your computer shuts down only when playing videos or games, it could be due to insufficient power supply. In such cases, it is recommended to replace your power supply unit (PSU) with a higher wattage one to provide enough power to your system. You can also use a PSU calculator to determine the power requirements of your system and purchase a suitable PSU accordingly.

3. Scan your PC for malware

Another reason your computer might shut down when playing videos is the presence of malware or viruses. These malicious programs can cause your system to overheat and shut down unexpectedly. Therefore, it is crucial to perform a full system scan using a reliable antivirus software and remove any detected threats.

4. Monitor CPU and GPU temperature

It is essential to keep an eye on your CPU and GPU temperature, especially when playing videos or games. If your system overheats, it can lead to a sudden shutdown. You can use third-party software like SpeedFan or HWMonitor to monitor the temperature of your system components. If you notice that the temperature is exceeding its normal range, you can try cleaning your computer's internal components and fans or consider investing in a better cooling system.

5. Check app power usage

Some applications have a high power usage, which can cause your computer to shut down. You can check the power usage of individual apps in the Task Manager. If you find any app consuming too much power, you can either close the app or limit its power usage to prevent your system from shutting down.

6. Check Event Viewer for the error

Windows Event Viewer is a useful tool that records all the events that occur on your system. If your computer shuts down when playing videos, it could be due to a specific error or issue, which is recorded in the Event Viewer. You can check the Event Viewer for any critical or error messages that might give you an idea about the cause of the shutdown. You can then troubleshoot the issue accordingly.

7. Troubleshoot in Clean Boot State

If none of the above methods work, you can try troubleshooting in a clean boot state. This will help you identify if any third-party software is causing the problem. To do this, you need to disable all the non-essential services and startup programs and check if the issue persists. If it doesn't, then one of the disabled programs is most likely the culprit.

8. Faulty RAM

If you have tried all the above solutions and the issue still persists, it could be due to faulty RAM. If your RAM is not working correctly, it can cause your system to shut down unexpectedly. To check if your RAM is faulty, you can run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool. If it detects any issues with your RAM, you can replace it with a new one.

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Windows computer shutting down when playing videos can be a frustrating issue, but it can be resolved with the right troubleshooting steps. You can start by verifying your hardware, updating your drivers, and checking for malware. If the problem persists, you can try monitoring your system's temperature, checking the power usage of apps, and troubleshooting in a clean boot state. If nothing works, it could be due to a faulty RAM, and you may need to replace it. We hope these suggestions will help you resolve the issue and enjoy uninterrupted video playback on your computer.