Why Restarting Matters

"Have you tried turning it off and on again?" is a cliche, but restarting actually fixes many problems. Here is why it works and how to do it properly.

Why Restarting Fixes Problems

When you restart your computer:

Memory is cleared of temporary data
Background processes are reset
Software updates can complete
Drivers reload fresh
Temporary files are cleared

Many glitches are caused by software running too long without a fresh start.

The Right Way to Restart

Standard Restart

Save all your work
Close any programs with unsaved changes
Click the Start button
Click the Power icon
Click Restart

Wait for the computer to fully shut down and start again. Do not turn it off manually.

Why Not Just Shut Down?

Windows 10 and 11 use Fast Startup by default. When you shut down:

The computer enters a hybrid sleep state
Not everything is truly reset

Restart fully closes and reopens Windows.

When to Restart

Restart your computer when:

A program is not responding
Things are running slower than usual
You just installed new software
Windows says updates are ready
Something just does not seem right

A weekly restart is good practice even if nothing seems wrong.

When Restart Does Not Work

Force Restart

If your computer is frozen and will not respond to a normal restart:

Hold the power button for 10 seconds
Wait until the computer turns off completely
Wait 30 seconds
Turn the computer back on

Only force restart when the computer is completely unresponsive.

Restart in Safe Mode

For persistent problems, try Safe Mode:

Click Start > Power
Hold Shift while clicking Restart
Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings
Click Restart
Press 4 for Safe Mode

Safe Mode loads minimal drivers and can help diagnose issues.

Restart vs Reset

Restart: Turns off and on again. Quick, keeps everything
Reset: Reinstalls Windows. Takes hours, may lose programs and settings

Only reset Windows if instructed by IT.

Scheduling Automatic Restarts

If you forget to restart regularly:

Open Settings (Windows key + I)
Go to Windows Update
Click Advanced options
Set Active hours when you use your computer
Windows will restart outside these hours for updates

Common Mistakes

Shutting the Lid (Laptops)

Closing the laptop lid usually puts it to sleep, not restart. Use the proper restart option.

Holding Power Button Regularly

Force shutdown should only be used when the computer is frozen. It can cause problems if used regularly.

Not Saving Work First

Always save your work before restarting. Unsaved changes will be lost.

Need Help?

If restarting does not fix your issue, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.

How to Restart Windows Properly (And Why It Matters)