It can be very frustrating to be in the middle of doing something and the computer shuts down. There is no warning, you lose everything you have been working on. Do you know what to do when your computer shuts down by itself?

First check and make sure the power cable did not come unplugged, or the cable is lose. Once you check the cables it is time to check inside the case. Carefully remove the side cover to your computer. Make sure the computer is off before your remove the side. Now after you have the side off gently blowout any dust and dirt that has accumulated inside the case.

Next turn the computer on. Watch to make sure the fans are working properly. When a computer is overheated it will shutdown to avoid damaging the system. If all of the fans are running turn the computer off. Now place the side cover back on.

Power up the computer again. Next we are going to check for viruses, spy-ware, and Trojans. These can all cause your computer to act strange and shut down. Check to make sure all of the security programs are updated. Then run them each to check for problems. If one of these programs find a problem have it automatically repair it.

Sometimes you will have to run these programs in safe mode to get them to catch any issues. IF you find you cannot update one the the security programs you can almost guarantee you have a virus or Trojan.

Also be sure to check your computers power settings. Most new computers have energy savings built in. They are set by default to shut down after a certain period of inactivity. You can find these settings under the display settings, or under power options in Windows Vista.

If you cannot determine what is causing your system to shut down it is a good idea to seek a professional to help you.