Top 3 reasons why your laptop is shutting down at random

Laptop shutting down or restarting at random? Find the reasons here on why it's happening to you.
1. Overheating CPU
A common reason is an overheating CPU leading to an automatic thermal switch turning it off for safety. When a CPU runs at full speed excessively, heat builds up.
The shutdown occurs to prevent the heat build-up causing too much damage, it’s a preventative measure by design.
Tip: Ensure nothing is blocking the vents and there is good airflow around the laptop. Never put a running laptop on a cushion or pillow, or inside a bag – only do this if the laptop is turned off, hibernated, or in sleep mode.

2. Motherboard issue
The second reason is that there is something wrong with Ball Grid Array on a motherboard.

If the motherboard/laptop base is pretty hot after a shutdown, there may be damage to it or another component – all electrical parts are sensitive to excessive heat.

Tip: If the shutdowns occur with no obvious cause (and there is excessive heat/noise), you may need to bring your laptop in for repair. This also ensures that no additional damage occurs through continued use.

3. Computer virus
In instances where the shutdown and/or restart does not have a clear hardware origin, a virus is a possibility.

Tip: Install good anti-virus software and ensure the definitions are kept up-to-date to counter the latest threats.

Generally, careful and regular maintenance – both hardware and software in nature – can prevent the vast majority of problems from occurring. These ensure that you continue to enjoy using your laptop to its full potential.