Screen Saver

• If an image is left on your computer's screen for too long, “burn in” could occur, causing a permanent imprint of the image to appear on the screen. To combat this, your computer should switch on a screen saver after being idle of a certain period of time. If the screen saver does not turn on, it could be malfunctioning and causing the freezing problem. Check your screen saver's current settings by clicking “Control Panel,” then “Appearance and Personalization.” The screen saver settings are under the “Personalization” tab.
  
  

Malware

• Strange operational problems with your computer may occur due to the presence of a virus or other malware programs. These hidden programs infiltrate your system's files and alter the functionality of your computer. Always keep an up-to-date anti-malware program installed on your system and run regular scans to prevent problems.
  
  

Update Software

• As time passes, the operating system files on your Dell can become outdated, possibly causing functional problems. Always check Microsoft's website for updates to your operating system, which can help patch and fix security and software issues. The BIOS files on your Dell may also require an update, which can usually found on Dell's website under the “Support” page.
  
  

Open Programs

• Any period of inactivity on your Dell will register as “idle” time regardless of whether or not you have programs open. When the system goes idle, the data associated with any programs open will be sent to the RAM. When you try to wake the system later, the amount of information in the RAM chips may prevent the computer from waking properly and resuming normal operations. Close all programs before allowing the system to go idle and increase the amount of RAM to help alleviate waking problems.