A central processing unit (CPU) is one of the most reliable components of a computer system. All the functions of a computer are entirely dependent on it, which is why a processor rarely fails to work. However, a few indicators can help you identify if your processor is on the road to death. If you happen to come across these indicators, the most you can do is prevent a complete processor failure.
But know that when a processor fails, there’s not much you can do about it except replacing it with a new one. Therefore, we’ll be discussing the signs and symptoms of a failing CPU over here. Along with that, you’ll also find some tips to improve the lifespan and health of your processor. This ultimate guide will discuss a magical way to fix a dead processor that helps bring it back to its former glory. Now that we’re clear with everything let’s proceed with our guide.
Table of Contents
What Are The Causes Of A CPU Failure?
First, let’s go through a few reasons that can lead to processor failure. A processor may fail suddenly, or it might start giving you indicators months before its collapse. In either case, you cannot do much about it. Besides, your processor might have failed due to the following reasons.
Aging
A processor typically does not fail very often. It lasts for a long while and doesn’t require repair and maintenance on and off. Even more so, a processor usually has a longer lifespan than all the other components.
But despite that, your processor may have gone dead due to old age. A processor that is past 5 years of age is at risk of failure. In such a case, the processor will stop responding all of a sudden, and you’ll be left with no choice to fix it. The components that may have led to the failure of the CPU include its fans, chips, or transistors.
Excessive Overclocking
While overclocking the processor can incredibly enhance its performance, for the time being, it can prove fatal for the processor in the long run. Excessive overclocking adds undue stress to the processing unit, which shortens its strength and lifespan. In short, if you excessively put the overclocking feature of the CPU to use, you’re essentially ruining its longevity. Sooner or later, excessive overclocking will lead to a CPU failure.
Excess Heat
It’s no secret that a processing unit does produce heat, and there’s nothing problematic about that as long as the fans and cooling system of the CPU are functioning. However, if there is an excessive heat build-up for a more extended period, your processor will not withstand that and eventually die.
Unstable Power Supply
Obviously, if the computer system receives an unstable power supply or experiences a power surge all of a sudden, then your processor will most likely die immediately. If you reside in an area with frequent power supply issues, your processor failure might have happened due to that.
What Are the Signs of A Failing CPU?
We often overlook the signs of a dying CPU, and the processor’s failure comes off as an unpleasant surprise. At times, a processor may fail without giving any indicators at all. In other cases, you might be able to tell if your CPU is slowly dying. Some of these indicators are listed below.
Trouble With System Boot Up
If the processor is completely dead, you’ll not be able to turn on your computer at all. The system will not get past the booting process, and a POST test may indicate processor failure.
Unexpected Shutdowns
If your system freezes, crashes, and then shuts down all of a sudden, it is one of the most significant indicators of the deteriorating health of your CPU. If your system experiences unexpected shutdowns too often, then prepare yourself for a total processor failure sooner or later.
Overheating
As mentioned earlier, overheating can lead to permanent damage to the CPU. If you notice your system overheating too often and crashing due to that, this is a clear sign of lousy CPU health. Try to prevent your system from overheating by keeping the temperature of the CPU low in all ways possible. Excessive heat can even melt the motherboard, so make sure you keep your CPU temperature stable.
How to Prevent a CPU Failure?
Since fixing a dead CPU is not an option, you should be aware of ways to prevent a CPU failure. Following are a few ways that can help you maintain the health and lifespan of your CPU.
- Try to keep the CPU temperature stable/do not let your processing unit overheat.
- Make sure the fans are functional. If need be, resort to aftermarket cooling systems.
- Regularly clean your processing unit.
- Do not place your system in a scorching environment.
How To Fix A Failing CPU?
We mentioned in the beginning quite clearly that you cannot fix a processor that is dead. The best and easiest way to make your system functional again is by replacing the processor with a new one. However, if you’re noticing a lag in the system’s performance or unusual freezing or crashing then, you may consider a few things that’ll help you overcome those problems.
- Make sure the vents are not blocked and your processor is receiving adequate airflow.
- Monitor the temperature of the CPU. If it is experiencing heat up issues, try to fix that and keep the temperature stable.
- Make sure the fans are working.
- Check the motherboard for any malfunction, which can also lead to a CPU failure.
Conclusion
If your processor is dead, then, unfortunately, there’s nothing that can be done about it. Replace it as soon as you can. However, if your processor is still working, keep an eye on all the factors that can make or break the health of your CPU.