Question System TOTAL FREEZE after 1:30-2:00 Min - No Idea What to Do... 😔

[Ivans33]

Hello everyone,

I'm completely lost and out of ideas 😔. So any help/advice is welcome, thank you.
My system (Windows 11) basically freezes completely within 1:30-2:00 minutes after booting.

Build:​

• CPU: i7-13700KF
• MOBO: MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi DDR5
• RAM: 32GB (16x2) Kingston FURY Beast 5600 CL40
• GPU: ASUS TUF RTX 3080 V2 OC, 10GB GDDR6X
• Cooler: ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB
• Storage: Samsung 1TB 980 PRO
• PSU: Corsair RM1000x
• CASE: Corsair 4000D Airflow

The Issue:​

Some background: Windows 10 was working fine, no issues at all. Back in 2022, I tried upgrading to Windows 11, and the exact same problem happened – system froze within 1:30-2:00 min after booting. At the time, I just reverted back to Windows 10 and forgot about it.

Yesterday, I flashed the latest BIOS update on my motherboard, hoping it would fix the issue. The first boot into Windows 11 was fine, and I managed to use the system for 3-4 hours without problems.

However, the next day, I left the PC on to access it remotely from my office, but when I tried to connect, the software showed that the PC was offline (red status). When I got home, I found the screen completely frozen—USB devices like keyboard and mouse were unresponsive, but the PC was still powered on (no crashes or restarts). The only way to turn it off was holding down the power button.
The freeze occurs almost everytime, like 99% of the boots I've done.

Everything I’ve Tried So Far (Still Ends in a Freeze):​

• Event Viewer didnt help, nothing important reported, apart from the usual kernel critical caused by holding down to shut down
• Safe Boot, DDU, booting without GPU drivers
• Booting with latest GPU drivers
• Disabling C-States
• Undervolting CPU (Offset mode)
• Disabling XMP
• Running RAM at 4800MHz
• Testing with only 1 RAM stick
• Clean install of Windows 11
• Clean install of Windows 10
• Tried the M.2 SSD in another PC > Works fine (not a storage problem)
• RAM test (done 2 years ago, no issues)
• Booted with all non-Microsoft services and startup apps disabled
• Infinite troubleshooting with GPT

Weird Behaviors Observed:​

• Froze during Windows 11 installation
• Froze at the Windows login screen
• Never freezes in Safe Mode (can stay for 10+ min)
• Worked fine on Windows 10 for 2+ years
• Now also freezes on a clean install of Windows 10
• No spikes in CPU, RAM, Disk, or GPU usage before freezing (checked in Task Manager)

Next Steps:​

I have no idea what to do next, but tomorrow I’m receiving:

• Corsair RM1200x SHIFT
• ASUS TUF GAMING Z790-A WIFI

First thing I’ll try is replacing the PSU, even though I doubt it’s the problem since it worked fine for 2 years. If that doesn’t work, I’ll swap in the new Z790 motherboard (instead of the MSI Z690), since I’ve read about instability issues between Z690 and 13th Gen Intel CPUs.

So, my next test will be:
RM1000x + Z790-A + 3080 + i7-13700KF

If that doesn’t fix it, my last resort would be testing a 12th Gen CPU, but I’m also wondering... what if the CPU (i7-13700KF) itself is the issue?

Has anyone else dealt with something this insane? It feels like the system just refuses to run Windows 11 (and now Windows 10 too), yet it somehow worked for a few hours before freezing again.

I feel like I’ve tried everything, but I’m out of ideas. Any advice or similar experiences would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

 

[logainofhades]

The CPU could be the issue, as it was one affected by Intel's degredation issues with 13th and 14th gen. I would try a CMOS reset first.

 

[Ivans33]

The CPU could be the issue, as it was one affected by Intel's degredation issues with 13th and 14th gen. I would try a CMOS reset first.

The old way of removing it physically still stands?
Also heard about that issue, I've read that in fact these cpu got +2 more warranty years... Since I bought in 2022, any idea to check if I can apply? I need to find the CPU box first, if there are any codes.
The thing is that the CPU doesnt spike at all when It freezes, maybe 1-3% max.. so I don't really know where to look at.
Thank you though, will try when I get home and update. 😊

 

[logainofhades]

For CMOS reset, make sure the system is unplugged and hit the power button to release power in the caps. Your board should have a jumper for it. If not, just remove the battery for a couple minutes.

You should be able to apply for an RMA, assuming you have your purchasing information.

 

[Ivans33]

For CMOS reset, make sure the system is unplugged and hit the power button to release power in the caps. Your board should have a jumper for it. If not, just remove the battery for a couple minutes.

You should be able to apply for an RMA, assuming you have your purchasing information.

I just cancelled the RM1200x and Z790... don't want to waste money (and pc parts) if its really just the CPU.
I'll try asking the RMA of my CPU - I bought it on Amazon, so still got all the purchasing information.
Will update on CMOS and hopefully of the next CPU swap (if I can apply)

Thank you again!

Also does anyone know much time does it take for them to ship a new one? Or how much time generally takes for the whole thing?

 

[logainofhades]

You made a lot of changes, regarding bios updates and voltages and such. A CMOS reset will set your motherboard completely back to out of the box settings that your board would be at, if it shipped with the bios you now have installed. I would start there.

 

[Ivans33]

You made a lot of changes, regarding bios updates and voltages and such. A CMOS reset will set your motherboard completely back to out of the box settings that your board would be at, if it shipped with the bios you now have installed. I would start there.

I bought the Z690 back in 2022, when I read that it could have some issues with compatibility with 13th gen I purposely picked the MSI one so I could flash the bios without having to go through a 12th gen to flash the bios.
In fact, it didnt boot up/work at the start.
After flashing the bios with USB, it started working with the i7-13700KF.
Been working with no issues except 2 times i tried to update into W11 (one time back in 2022 and yesterday)

Now, If I reset the CMOS, will it go back to that point? Would be quite troublesome...
For the BIOS settings, everytime I tried a new thing I'd do "Restore default" settings and then apply each setting 1 by 1 aswell for test purposes.
Restore default isn't the same as resetting CMOS right? or does the CMOS reverts back the firmware too?

I just read more about the 13th and 14th issues: if the CPU was really the problem, can it damage other components? such as motherboard, ram... I'm quite scared about that. Like lets say it damaged the socket or pins...
However I never had issues (as far as I know) with temps.

As soon as I get home, I'll check for RMA, last few tests and then get the CPU off my mobo and check if the socket is alright. If the CMOS will go back way back to non-13th gen compatibility I dont think I'll try that though... Is it worth it?

Still thank you so much for the kind help 🙇‍♂️

 

[geofelt]

Intel is reasonably good about the RMA process.
I have done it recently.
First of all, you will need an invoice from an authorized Intel seller.
I would imagine that Amazon applies, but, perhaps not the secondary sellers.

To start the process, you need to fill out a RMA online form.
A rep will be assigned to monitor the progress. Perhaps by chat, or perhaps by email.
One of the pieces of information needed is the lot number off of the processor.

The best way to prove that the processor is defective would be to install a replacement that works. That could be a simple I3, or perhaps do an upgrade.
If you bought a replacement, ask for a cash refund, not an exact swap.
Cash would be what you originally paid, that is more than the value of a 13700KF today.

 

[Ivans33]

Intel is reasonably good about the RMA process.
I have done it recently.
First of all, you will need an invoice from an authorized Intel seller.
I would imagine that Amazon applies, but, perhaps not the secondary sellers.

To start the process, you need to fill out a RMA online form.
A rep will be assigned to monitor the progress. Perhaps by chat, or perhaps by email.
One of the pieces of information needed is the lot number off of the processor.

The best way to prove that the processor is defective would be to install a replacement that works. That could be a simple I3, or perhaps do an upgrade.
If you bought a replacement, ask for a cash refund, not an exact swap.
Cash would be what you originally paid, that is more than the value of a 13700KF today.

Yeah I bought it from Amazon, I'll also try to ask them if there's anything they can do aswell.
So to be able to prove that the defect is the CPU I must buy a new CPU? was thinking about 12th gen to avoid any problems in the future...

maybe i9-12900k or i7... because buying a i3 feels like a waste.

Thinking back that I bought that 13700KF at 500... its insane. Ill try ask for a refund then.. but Im scared that since its been 2 years I wont be able to have this option.
Also, since I'm in Italy, is better to go through local or US?

I need a PC to work with right now and I can't stay without too much... Kind of worried that even if I get a replacement or new CPU and the problem still occurs I dont know what else to do. So I hope intel CS are reasonably fast...

 

[geofelt]

Can you borrow a cpu of any strength to verify that it is the cpu that is defective?
It might be good to buy a 13100 to verify that it really is the cpu that is the problem.
OK for work, but not so much for gaming. They go for $60 used on ebay.

Intel rma will not be quick. Plus, I don't know how being in Italy would impact things. Probably not for good.

 

[Ivans33]

Can you borrow a cpu of any strength to verify that it is the cpu that is defective?
It might be good to buy a 13100 to verify that it really is the cpu that is the problem.
OK for work, but not so much for gaming. They go for $60 used on ebay.

Intel rma will not be quick. Plus, I don't know how being in Italy would impact things. Probably not for good.

I have a friend with a i3-12100, its still LGA 1700, feel like should be fine too, right?
Or might just as you suggested for a 13100, will see what I can get first

Thank you so much for the advices, I feel more hope now than last few days 😅
I opened a ticket in the international site I think. Will avoid the local CS. But I'll see.

 

[geofelt]

Try the 12100.

 

[Ivans33]

UPDATE:​

I will receive a i3-13100f, in couple days, however I've done a bit of tests today:
I tried again a W10 image.
And thats the weird thing, it doesn't crash on W10, but it does in W11. (always within 1:30-2min frame)
I'm so confused. I tried a quick google search but nothing yet (will continue to search). Is my case unique?
PC is fine, fully working, in W10. wtf?
But as soon as it boots on W11, it freezes. wtf? Any ideas?

Thats what Intel support told me, I tried, but no success (the bios settings), for reference:

Greetings from Intel Customer Support

Thank you for contacting Intel customer support. I empathize with your situation, and I assure you that I will try my best to provide a resolution as it is our utmost priority.

I request you please share the following information.
1) Storage Device: (Make, Capacity, Type: SSD/HDD)
2) Dedicated Graphic Card Details: (If any)
3) Power Supply Details: (Model, Wattage and the manufacturer):
4) Thermal Solution Details (Air Cooler or a Liquid Cooler):
5) Operating System Details:

To further assist you, I request you to use "Intel Default Settings" by upgrading latest BIOS from ODM website and checking the BIOS settings on your 600/700 series chipset systems to ensure operation within Intel specifications as detailed below:

Current Excursion Protection (CEP): Enable
Enhanced Thermal Velocity Boost (eTVB): Enable
Thermal Velocity Boost (TVB): Enable
TVB Voltage Optimizations: Enable
ICCMAX Unlimited Bit: Disable
TjMAX Offset: 0
C-States: Enable
AC/DC Load Lines: AC and DC Load Lines must match
ICCMAX: Varies, Never>400A*
ICCMAX_App: Varies*
Power Limits (PL's): Varies*


Please reach out to motherboard manufacturer if you are not able to find the settings mentioned above in the system BIOS.

If the issue persist even after the above mentioned changes are updated, I would like to inform you that a Standard Warranty Replacement can be initiated for your processor and I request you to provide us with your shipping address as in the format mentioned below:


Country:
Street:
City:
Postal Code:
Contact Number:


I would like to inform you that as per Standard Warranty Replacement, the faulty processor should be shipped to Intel first for further validation process.

Once the validation is completed, the new processor will be shipped to your location. The estimated days for the completion of the replacement is 5-7 business days from the day faulty processor is picked from your location.

He didn't mention a refund, could I still ask for it? Or it's not a thing anymore?
Since the CPU works on W10 system, and I would have to send the CPU to Intel, I don't know if its the right call to send it. over.

Right now I'm just waiting for the i3 and I just want to see if my PC freezes also in W11 with a different cpu. Apart from that, does anyone have any ideas/advices that I should try?
Thank you in advance