Trying to switch off overclocking on your Windows 11 rig? It’s not too tricky, but can be a bit of a faff if you’re not familiar with BIOS or UEFI menus. Overclocking can give your PC a bit of a boost, but it’s often not worth the hassle with stability — or risking overheating. Usually, you jump into your BIOS/UEFI and reset a few settings to default, but every motherboard brand likes to do its own thing. Here’s how I’ve done it — hopefully it saves someone from crashing their system or frying their CPU.
How to Turn Off Overclocking in Windows 11
Essentially, you’re telling your system to stop running your CPU faster than it’s meant to. Why do it? So it runs more reliably, crashes less, and runs cooler. If you’re noticing weird freezes, temps skyrocketing, or your benchmarks showing your CPU running way above stock speed, it’s probably time to jump into BIOS and revert the settings.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Turn it all the way off (Power > Shut Down), then boot it back up. Keep an eye out for the prompt to get into BIOS/UEFI. Usually it’s F2, Del, or Esc. Sometimes the screen flashes past quick — be ready to mash that key when the logo appears. Sometimes you might need to hit F2, other times Del. Not gonna lie, some machines are a bit weird about this — it’s just trial and error, mate.
Step 2: Enter BIOS/UEFI
Press the right key and you’ll land in the firmware. It can look different — some are blue menus, others are black and white. Don’t panic if it’s your first time — it’s just settings.
Quick tip: Some brands offer shortcuts during startup, like holding Shift + F2 or specific key combos. Dell, HP, ASUS, MSI — the key usually pops up on the screen at startup.
Step 3: Find Overclocking or CPU Settings
This part can be a pain. BIOS layouts differ heaps. Look for sections named “CPU Configuration,” “Overclocking,” or “Advanced Frequency Settings.” It might be under “AI Tweaker,” “OC,” or similar. Sometimes tucked away in an “Advanced” menu. If you spot options like CPU Multiplier, Base Clock, or Voltage, that’s a good sign you’re in the right spot. BIOS can be a bit of a maze.
Step 4: Disable or Reset Overclocking
Here, you want to set things back to normal. You might see options like CPU Ratio, Frequency, or Memory overclocking. Just set ’em to default or auto. Usually, there’s a button like “Load Defaults,” or you can manually turn the CPU Ratio back to 36 (for 3.6 GHz). If you see an option to Enable XMP, turn it off too. Once done, save your settings — typically by pressing F10 or heading to Save & Exit.
Heads up: Not all BIOSs behave the same. If some overclock options go missing, your motherboard might not support overclocking or it’s locked down. Most high-end or enthusiast boards should be fair dinkum, though.
Step 5: Reboot and Confirm
Your PC will restart. Now, it should be running at stock speeds. If you want to double-check, fire up a tool like CPU-Z. Look at the clock speed — if it’s matching your CPU’s stock figure (like 3.6 GHz), you’re all set. Sometimes, it takes a reboot or BIOS reset to fully clear the overclock, so don’t worry if the first go isn’t perfect.
Tips for Turning Off Overclocking in Windows 11
- Always back up your BIOS settings if you can — a screenshot works a treat.
- If you’re struggling to find the right menu, check your motherboard manual or the manufacturer’s website.
- Sometimes, a CMOS reset helps. Unplug the PC, remove and reinsert the motherboard battery, or use the clear CMOS jumper (check your manual). Not always needed, but it can help if settings are a stubborn bugger.
- Be patient — BIOS screens can be a bit finicky. Updating your BIOS might also improve things or fix bugs in menu navigation.
- Use software like CPU-Z or HWInfo to keep an eye on your temps and speeds after rebooting.
FAQs
What is overclocking anyhow?
Basically, it’s running your CPU faster than it’s meant to. It can give extra juice, but also heaps of heat and potential crashes. If stability’s the main thing, maybe don’t bother.
Why bother turning it off?
Less crashes, cooler temps, and your hardware will last longer. If your PC’s acting up or temps are sky-high, flipping the overclock off might do the trick.
Will turning off overclocking damage anything?
Nah, it’s just like putting everything back to stock specs. No dramas, mate.
How do I tell if I’m overclocked?
Check your BIOS for jacked-up ratios, or fire up CPU-Z. If the clock speed’s above the default, you’re overclocked, for sure.
Is it hard to do?
If you take your time and follow the steps, not a worry. Just remember to save your settings before rebooting, and you’ll be right as rain.
Summary
- Restart your system and get into BIOS/UEFI.
- Look for overclocking options inside CPU or frequency menus.
- Reset or disable those options.
- Save and reboot.
- Check with CPU-Z or HWInfo that you’re at default speeds.
Hope that helps, Cobber. BIOS menus can be a bit weird, and sometimes updates or resets are needed, but once you know where to look, it’s a pretty easy job. Remember — stability beats speed, so running your system smoothly at normal speeds is the main aim, alright?