Computer overheating is a common problem that can be caused by a few different factors. In order to diagnose and fix the issue, you must first identify what is causing the problem.
The most common cause of overheating is inadequate cooling. This can happen when the computer has too many components installed or due to inadequate airflow, either from the fan not spinning fast enough or being blocked. If the computer is in an enclosed space, it may also overheat due to lack of ventilation. Inadequate cooling can also be caused by a defective fan or air vents. It is also possible the thermal paste between the processor and the heat sink may have dried out and is no longer transferring heat efficiently.
Another cause of computer overheating is poor thermal management. This can happen when the BIOS settings are incorrect or if the fan speed is not set correctly. Additionally, if the computer has been upgraded recently with new components, it may be necessary to update the BIOS settings to accommodate them. Lastly, if the computer has been running at or near full capacity for an extended period of time, this can also increase temperatures and potentially lead to an overheating issue.
Finally, computers can overheat due to dust buildup. Dust has insulating properties which can trap heat inside of the computer case. This increases the component temperature and eventually they will fail. To prevent this from happening, it is important to keep your computer clean on a regular basis. Compressed air should be used to blow out any dust from the interior of the case as well as from the fan grills and vents.
Computer overheating can be caused by a number of issues, but the above-mentioned points are the most likely culprits. The best way to diagnose and fix the issue is to determine the cause and then take steps to rectify it. Make sure all of the proper cooling components are functioning correctly and confirm the BIOS settings are correct. Additionally, keeping your computer clean is a key step in preventing overheating.