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Article ID: KB26080007
Quick answer
A normal restart can clear temporary problems with applications, network connections, printers, updates, and connected devices. Restart once, then try the original task again before submitting a routine support ticket.
Before you begin
✓ Confirm the computer has reliable AC power. Connect a laptop to its approved power adapter or powered docking station. For a desktop computer, confirm the power cable is secure and any approved UPS shows normal operation. If power is unstable or an outage is in progress, do not restart.
✓ Save open documents and confirm important files have finished saving or syncing.
✓ Close applications that contain unsaved work.
✓ Do not interrupt Windows, BIOS, firmware, encryption, or application updates that are already running.
✓ A restart is different from closing a laptop lid or signing out.
Steps for Windows 11
- Select Start.
- Select Power.
- Select Restart.
- Allow Windows to finish restarting. Do not hold the power button unless the PCMIT Help Desk instructs you to do so.
- Sign in and allow two or three minutes for startup applications to load.
- Try the original task one time.
Expected result
Windows returns to the sign-in screen, the computer accepts your normal sign-in, and the affected application or device can be tested again. If the problem is resolved, no additional troubleshooting is required.
⚠️ Stop and contact PCMIT when
- ⚠ Windows displays a BitLocker recovery-key prompt.
- ⚠ The computer repeatedly returns to a blue or black error screen.
- ⚠ An update remains frozen at the same percentage for an extended period.
- ⚠ You hear unusual mechanical sounds or notice heat, odor, smoke, swelling, or electrical damage.
- ⚠ The computer cannot start, files appear missing, or the same problem immediately returns.
When opening a ticket, include the computer name, the exact error message, and what happened after the restart.
Contact the PCMIT Help Desk
- ☎️ Phone: 888-910-1114
- ✉️ Email: [email protected]
- 🌐 Portal: help.pcmitcorp.com
Never include a password, MFA code, or recovery key in a ticket.
Sources
- Restart (reboot) your PC — Microsoft Support
- Troubleshooting Windows unexpected restarts and stop-code errors — Microsoft Support
- How to Troubleshoot AC Adapter Issues on a Dell Laptop — Dell Support
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