Computer crashes can be caused by a variety of different things and it is difficult to pinpoint the exact cause without conducting further tests. Generally, there are several common causes for crashes when opening certain programs:
1. Overheating – One potential cause of a computer crash is overheating. This occurs when the processor or other components in the computer become too hot and can no longer function correctly. Overheating can be caused by insufficient cooling, incorrect fan settings, or an inadequate power supply. This can be a particular issue when running more resource-intensive applications such as games or video editing software. To solve this issue, ensure that your computer is properly cooled, adjust fan speed settings if possible, and consider upgrading the power supply.
2. Outdated Software – Outdated software can also be a cause of a crash when running certain programs. Many programs will require newer versions of libraries, frameworks, and operating systems in order to function properly. When programs are not up-to-date, they may no longer be compatible with the hardware or software that is currently installed on the system. To avoid software issues, always make sure that all installed programs have the latest updates and patches.
3. Outdated Drivers – Outdated drivers can cause issues when trying to run certain programs, most notably graphics drivers. Graphics drivers control the rendering of images and videos on the screen and must be kept up-to-date in order for the computer to produce high-quality visuals. Make sure that you have the latest drivers installed to prevent crashes when running graphics-intensive applications.
4. Malware and Viruses – Malicious software and viruses can also cause computer crashes. Malware is a type of malicious software that is designed to cause harm to a computer system. Often, malware can infect system drivers and files, causing them to malfunction or fail altogether. Viruses are similar to malware, but they are specifically designed to replicate themselves and spread across multiple computers. Both types of malicious software can cause computers to crash when trying to load certain programs. To protect against malware and viruses, make sure that you have a good antivirus program installed on your system.
5. Broken Files – In some cases, important system files can become corrupted, causing programs to crash. This can happen due to sudden power outages or errors during program installation. The best way to address broken files is to use a utility tool such as Windows System File Checker to scan for and repair any broken files.
It is important to note that these are general causes and may not apply in every situation. Crashes can sometimes be caused by hardware failures, hardware incompatibility, incorrect hardware configurations, or even faulty software code. If you are experiencing frequent crashes, contact a qualified technician to troubleshoot the issue and determine the underlying cause.