MadSci Network: Computer Science |
Patricia, Computers can freeze for a variety of reasons. If you're using software when your computer "crashes," it might be due to a bug or problem in the program. Some programs make heavy use of memory and don't release all the memory assigned to it when the program closes. Then when you start up another program, the computer might not have all the memory it needs and your computer crashes. Over time, your computer's amount of fragmented memory can increase to a point where your computer runs very inefficiently. There could also be other problems with incompatible hardware such as a video card or sound card that doesn't work well with the main board. Also, operating systems such as Windows 95 and Windows 98 have a "registry" that controls Windows programs. Registry damage can cause your computer to freeze or send you error messages. Another cause of crashes is bad drivers. Sometimes drivers have bugs in them. Often, users are not notified of fixes although patches can be found on the internet if you suspect a bug in certain driver. Bonnie
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