Windows won’t start

Computer won't wake up from sleep or hibernation

The PC was left in sleep or hibernation mode, but pressing a key, moving the mouse, or pressing the power button doesn't wake it up; the screen stays black and it seems unresponsive.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
15–30 minutes
DIY cost
$0
Pro cost
$60–$120

Symptoms

  • PC was sleeping/hibernating and now won't respond to input
  • Power light may be on, blinking, or off entirely
  • Fans may or may not be running
  • A hard power-off is needed to get any response

Likely causes

  • CommonDriver (especially graphics or network) failing to resume properlyCertain drivers don't handle the wake process reliably, causing the system to hang.
  • CommonUSB device or peripheral preventing proper wakeA wireless mouse/keyboard receiver or docking station can sometimes block a clean wake.
  • PossibleWindows Update pending a restart that conflicts with sleepA pending update can leave the system in an inconsistent state during sleep.
  • PossiblePower settings or BIOS power management misconfigurationIncompatible sleep settings between Windows and BIOS can cause wake failures.
  • Less commonFailing power supply or motherboard componentHardware nearing failure can struggle specifically with the wake cycle.

What to do

  1. First, try pressing the power button briefly (not holding it) since some PCs wake this way rather than via keyboard or mouse.
  2. If nothing happens, hold the power button 10 seconds to force a shutdown, then power back on normally.
  3. Once booted, go to Device Manager, expand Network adapters and Display adapters, and update those drivers, since they're common causes.
  4. Unplug non-essential USB devices (especially wireless receivers and docking stations) and test sleep/wake again with only a wired keyboard and mouse connected.
  5. Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do, and review sleep-related settings; consider disabling 'Allow hybrid sleep' temporarily to test.
  6. Check for pending Windows updates and install them before the next sleep cycle, since a pending restart can interfere.
  7. If wake failures continue after driver updates and disconnecting peripherals, consider using hibernate or shutdown instead of sleep as a workaround while investigating further.

When to call a pro

If the PC repeatedly fails to wake even after driver updates and disconnecting peripherals, a technician can check for a failing power supply or motherboard issue.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.