Why does my computer power on and then immediately turns off?

Updated: 05/01/2023 by Computer Hope
Power button

If your computer turns off immediately or even within a few seconds after it is turned on, there could be several possible issues. To proceed, we recommend going through each section below to help find a solution to your problem.

Note

If the computer has no power or doesn't turn on, see: Why won't my computer turn on? If the computer stays on for several minutes before it turns off, see: Why does my computer turn off without warning?

Caution

Some steps below require you to open the computer case. While working in your machine, always be aware of the dangers of ESD (electrostatic discharge).

Loose cable

Make sure all cables inside the computer case are firmly attached to the motherboard and each component. Check the IDE (integrated drive electronics) cables and SATA (Serial AT Attachment) cables, which are connected to the hard drive, CD (compact disc) or DVD (digital versatile disc) drive, and floppy drive (if present). Check both ends of each cable and make sure they are firmly attached to the component and the motherboard. Turn on the computer and test to see if this resolves the issue.

Tip

Sometimes, the best way to verify a cable is not loose is to disconnect and reconnect (reseat) the cable on both ends.

Surge protector issues

Surge protectors and battery back-up units can go bad over time, causing reduced power flow to the computer. As computers require a specific amount of power to operate, too great a reduction can force the computer to shut down.

If this situation applies to your computer, unplug its power cord from the surge protector or battery back-up unit, and plug it directly into a wall outlet. Turn on the computer to see if the problem persists. If the computer stays powered on, the surge protector or battery back-up unit is bad and needs to be replaced.

Electrical short

An electrical short in a computer, which may cause power issues, happens when pieces of metal cause a path for electricity to flow through that shouldn't exist. Computers are full of screws, as they hold nearly every internal component in place, and from time to time, they can come loose. Lift your computer and gently rotate it while gently shaking it from side to side. If you hear what sounds like small rocks banging around, you likely have loose screws inside the case. Open the computer up and remove them.

Memory issue

Verify the memory modules are properly seated in the memory slots on the motherboard. To do this, open the computer, remove the memory modules from their slots, and gently reseat them. It also is important to note that memory modules are installed in pairs, and sometimes in matching slots, which are designated by matching colors. Make sure the modules are firmly seated and the clamps on both sides of the modules snap into place. Plug in the power cord and turn the computer on to see if the issue is resolved.

Power supply issues

Power supply voltage switch

The power supply voltage switch, a small red switch on the back of the power supply, may be on the wrong setting. If this switch's setting is not correct for your country, your computer may automatically power down. The first thing to do is to consult the Voltage Valet website to discern your country's correct voltage settings. Then, make sure your power supply voltage switch is set accordingly.

Possibly defective power supply

Verify the power supply is functional. A faulty power supply can result in not enough, if any, power getting to the motherboard, causing the computer to shut off immediately or not turn on at all. Many online computer retailers sell power supply testing units for under $20. In the event of a bad power supply, the only remedy is to replace it with a new one. Fixing a power supply is not an economical solution, if possible at all.

Overheating

If your computer is new or the motherboard was recently replaced, make sure the thermal compound is properly applied to the processor. If the heat is not being properly transferred from the processor to the heat sink, it can overheat very quickly. Because of the potential of damage to hardware that overheats, if the computer exceeds a set temperature, it is automatically turned off.

Processor or motherboard issue

The processor is like the brain of the computer; if it fails, many issues can occur. One possibility is that the computer is not able to start up properly, resulting in an immediate shutoff. Running diagnostic tests to detect possible processor problems helps in the troubleshooting process. If defects are detected with the diagnostic tests, you likely need to replace the processor to resolve the problem.

If the processor turns out okay, check the motherboard. This task can be rather difficult since the issue could be anywhere in the circuitry. A faulty, failing, or malfunctioning circuit or component (e.g., capacitor) can cause the computer to shut off immediately or not turn on at all. To help find potential problems with the motherboard, perform a visual check for blown capacitors or burnt circuitry that indicates the motherboard is damaged.

Running diagnostic tests using software also helps to find problems not visible to the human eye. If a visual check or diagnostic tool reveals the motherboard is bad, the best fix is to replace it. Repairing a motherboard is difficult and usually more expensive than buying a new one.

Computer repair shop

If none of the recommendations above help resolve the issue, we suggest taking or sending the computer to a repair shop for further troubleshooting. Computer repair shops often have advanced diagnostic equipment to help find more complex or less common problems.