HELP computer alternates between freezing and normal operation every second

Troubleshooting Intermittent Freezing on Windows 10: A Comprehensive Guide

Experiencing irregular system freezes can be incredibly frustrating, especially when your computer otherwise runs smoothly. If your PC randomly alternates between normal operation and brief freezes every second, it can disrupt your workflow and gaming sessions. In this article, we’ll explore common causes for such behavior and provide practical solutions to address the issue effectively.

Understanding the Problem

The symptoms you’re describing—high FPS in the background with periodic half-second freezes across both monitors—point to a potential underlying hardware or software conflict. Despite efforts like restarting, driver updates, and port changes, the problem persists, making it necessary to delve deeper into possible causes and solutions.

Key Considerations and Troubleshooting Steps

1. Assessing Hardware Stability

Check Temperatures: Overheating can cause temporary freezes. Use tools like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner to monitor CPU and GPU temperatures during operation.
Run Memory Diagnostics: Faulty RAM may lead to system instability. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86 to identify potential errors.
Inspect Storage Devices: Slow or failing drives can cause freezes. Use SMART tools like CrystalDiskInfo to evaluate drive health.

2. Updating and Managing Drivers

Since driver updates and rollbacks have already been attempted, ensure all drivers, especially for your GPU and chipset, are installed from official sources. Sometimes, using generic Windows drivers can cause instability.
Consider using DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller) to thoroughly remove current GPU drivers before reinstalling the latest version.

3. System Resource and Background Process Check

Open Task Manager during operation to identify any processes consuming excessive CPU, RAM, or disk resources that could be causing pauses.
Disable unnecessary startup programs and background applications.

4. Display and Port Troubleshooting

You’ve tried changing display ports; ensure your cables and monitors are functioning correctly.
Test with a different set of cables and connected monitors if possible.

5. Operating System and Software Updates

Though you prefer Windows 10, consider whether upgrading to Windows 11—or even performing a clean installation of Windows 10—might resolve underlying OS issues. Remember to back up essential files before a reset.