Need help with overheating HP laptop

[EmmettChase]

I am using an HP Pavilion g4-2149se notebook. Don't really know anything super specific, but it runs really hot and has even frozen up to the point task manager will not even open. I've got an older fan that hooks into the USB on it, and don't even think that it is helping at all. Anyways, I've been trying to find some sort of software that can help either control the fans or help keep it cool so that it will not die before I am able to upgrade. Any sort of information or advice is very much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Also, I know that it is an old laptop it's all I have due to budget, so don't judge.

[Echo_Lake]

@EmmettChase
Thank you for posting on the HP Support Community.

I have a few troubleshooting steps we could try to fix the issue:  
use the following steps:

• Shut down the computer, and then inspect and clean the exterior vents to remove dust buildup by blowing air through the vent openings. Dust can accumulate inside the vent openings and around internal cooling components, preventing the removal of heat.

For more information on reducing heat inside your computer, see Reducing Heat Inside the PC.

• After you remove the dust, turn on the computer. If the error message persists, continue with these steps.
• Perform a hard reset. Performing a hard reset can reset recorded thermal values in memory and enable you to use the computer again, even if only for a short time to access and save any important files before service.

For more information on performing a hard reset, see Use Hard Reset to Resolve Hardware and Software Issues.

• In some cases, updating the BIOS might help prevent this error from occurring.

For more information on how to update the BIOS, see Updating the BIOS.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.
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