Random stuttering and freezing during initial build
Random stuttering and freezing during initial build
I'm still dealing with some unusual issues after setting up my PC a few months ago. From the start, I've faced a couple of strange problems that are hard to solve. The first is when my computer stutters unpredictably, changing its level of lag and stuttering randomly. Clearing the CMOS helped a bit, but it still happens occasionally.
The second issue involves my web browser freezing while streaming videos on platforms like YouTube or Netflix. Only the browser itself freezes, leaving the rest of the system working fine. These freezes usually last about 30 seconds to a minute, during which CPU usage spikes slightly. I've found ways to fix it—like moving the window, opening a video in media player, adjusting Taskbar settings, or pressing WIN+CTRL+SHIFT+B. It's not a frequent occurrence, but it remains quite annoying.
So far, neither problem has triggered a crash, locked my system, or caused a desktop crash. My temperatures are normal, I haven't overclocked, resources aren't being consumed excessively, no malware detected, and my system passes all diagnostics. I've kept my drivers and BIOS updated from the motherboard manufacturer's site, since I chose not to install Armoury Crate.
During troubleshooting, I've tried uninstalling and reinstalling Chrome and Edge, removing browser extensions, clearing cache and cookies, disabling unnecessary background apps, resetting Windows 11, performing a repair installation, ensuring all cables are secure, turning off XMP settings, resetting CMOS, and using DDU to test different graphics drivers. Despite these efforts, the problems persist.
One thing that stands out is an early issue I faced: one of the RAM sticks I originally purchased was faulty. I returned it for a replacement. I only realized it wasn't properly seated when all my RAM appeared to be being used up. Task Manager showed that nearly all of the 16GB stick was active, but I wasn't running any demanding applications at the time, and closing programs didn't free it. Since then, there haven't been any unusual spikes in RAM usage, so I'm unsure if this was the root cause.
I feel overwhelmed with these challenges, and any advice would be greatly appreciated.
try applying the "Load Optimized Defaults" setting in the BIOS.
when the manufacturer sets base defaults via the clear CMOS option, it usually runs below expected performance.
also verify that a strong power profile is active in Windows settings.
often the CPU and other parts operate under specifications lower than rated by enabling "Power Saving" or similar low-performance modes.
activating the XMP profile is definitely necessary.
After removing the CMOS, I used "Load Optimized Defaults." Would XMP make a difference in the issues you're facing?
when the ram operates at its default speeds and timings, it may lead to what some refer to as "stuttering" during gameplay. this can reduce overall system performance compared to when the ram meets the manufacturer's rated specifications. besides adjusting power settings in windows, ensure the nvidia control panel is configured for optimal gaming performance. remember to stay updated, as the bios will be improved over time to enhance speed and resolve any existing problems.
Due to overall degraded performance, would it also impact less demanding tasks such as web browsing? Since the stuttering persists, this is likely.
slower memory wouldn't completely stop it, but it can be linked to certain factors.
it simply means your RAM isn't operating at its intended speed.
as a result, everything using RAM in the system will perform more slowly compared to when it runs with faster speeds and better timings.
Thanks, I'll try turning on XMP and observe the results. I'm hoping it will address both the stuttering and the occasional freezing I experience while watching streaming videos in my browser.
I thought this might be related to my RAM since I'm not sure of another possible cause. There was also that unusual issue I mentioned earlier when I had only one stick installed, which stood out to me. I feel like I've done everything except reinstalling Windows and replacing parts.
before proceeding with a complete fresh install
you can execute DISM and SFC routines to identify and potentially resolve issues in the existing setup.
if you have a comparable secondary system, this remains the most effective approach for troubleshooting.
replace one part at a time until the problem becomes less apparent.
I attempted that, but the issues persisted. I also explored tools such as WhySoSlow? and LatencyMon, though I lack the expertise to interpret their outputs effectively. WhySoSlow would occasionally alert me about SM Bios Interrupt, while LatencyMon showed multiple drivers competing for the highest latency.
I believe a fresh Windows 11 installation might be necessary, as I found someone who also faced strange stuttering and resolved it by reinstalling Windows and halting automatic driver updates.
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