Freezing Apps. Cannot shut down without that freezing.

[RutabagaRoy]

This has been constant for several months, the apps freezing. Now I cannot get it to shutdown properly.

[Deep_World]

Hi  @RutabagaRoy,
 
Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

I Understand your concern about the applications freezing issue , especially now that your computer is no longer shutting down properly. I'll do my best to help you get this resolved.

Could you kindly confirm the below details:

• What is the exact HP model number of your computer?
• Which version of Windows are you using (Windows 10 or Windows 11)?
• Do the freezes occur with specific applications or with all applications?
• Does the system become completely unresponsive, or can you still move the mouse and use the keyboard when the issue occurs?
• Have you noticed any error messages, blue screens, or warning notifications?

In the meantime, kindly try the  below  steps and confirm  : 

1. Perform a Hard Restart

If the system is frozen:

1. Press and hold the Power button for 10-15 seconds until the computer turns off.
2. Wait 30 seconds.
3. Turn the computer back on and check if the issue persists.

2. Check for Windows Updates

1. Open Settings - Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. Install all available updates and restart the computer.

3. Run HP Hardware Diagnostics

1. Turn off the computer.
2. Turn it back on and repeatedly tap F2 until HP PC Hardware Diagnostics opens.
3. Run the System Tests, especially: 
   Memory Test
   Hard Drive/Storage Test
4. Let us know if any test returns a failure ID.

5. Check Startup Programs

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Disable non-essential startup applications.
4. Restart the computer and check whether the freezing improves.

I hope this helps.