How To Turn Off Overclocking? [CPU & GPU]

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Abdul Hadi

At HI Digital I test and write about different hardware configurations to show other PC users what they can expect from their build. My end goal is to educate the masses to make the right decision when they are looking for new PC parts to buy

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Overclocking means running hardware at a faster speed than the manufacturer’s intended one. When executed correctly, it can improve the speed of a computer, but it can also raise temperatures and reduce hardware lifespan. If the attempts lead to issues like system crashes or overheating, knowing how to turn off overclocking is essential.

Methods Difficulty Rating

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

CPU overclocking is common among PC users to increase clock speeds to achieve higher FPS and better performance. However, prolonged overclocking caused more damage than good on my PC. It may even reduce the CPU’s lifespan.

Using Windows

Windows settings provide users with a lot of features and functionalities that let them tweak a lot of settings on their PC, and this can both provide benefits and disadvantages to the performance of your system.

Based on my experience using Windows 11 on my PC, I have found these options quite usable, including the power settings that allow users to activate or deactivate overclocking effectively. In case they face issues trying to lower their CPU temperatures. The following steps can be used to get it done:   

1. Access Power Settings: Go to Settings > System > Power & Sleep > Click Additional Power Settings on the right.

   

2. Change Power Settings: Under Preferred Plans, mark High Performance > Change Plan Settings > Change Advanced Power Settings.

   

3. Change Processor Values: Select Processor Power Management > Expand Minimum and Maximum Processor State > Change both values to 99% > Apply > OK. 

   

Using BIOS/UEFI

Accessing the BIOS/UEFI allows users to disable overclocking, which is a process of pushing hardware beyond default clock speeds. This step is crucial for troubleshooting stability issues or reverting to stock configurations.

Personally, I have resolved system instability issues by turning off an aggressive overclocking profile in the BIOS. Navigating these settings carefully ensures reliable operation at default clock speeds. So once you’ve accessed the BIOS/UEFI, follow these steps: 

1. Access Advanced BIOS: Open Advanced > Choose Performance.
2. Set To Default: Find CPU Clock Speed and Voltage settings > Set them to Default > Exit BIOS > Reboot your PC.

Alternatively, if there’s an option for reverting your system to its default settings, select it, save changes, and exit the BIOS/UEFI. If there’s no direct option to restore all settings to default, you’ll have to revert all the locations you changed manually.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Reset CPU Core Ratio: Reset the CPU Core Ratio for each core.
2. Restore Settings: Restore CPU Core Voltage and FSB Frequency to Default.
3. Save: Save changes > Exit BIOS/UEFI.

Using Software Tools

Software tools offer a user-friendly approach to disabling overclocking, with intuitive interfaces and real-time monitoring capabilities. These tools simplify the process for users who prefer a quick solution without navigating complex firmware settings.

In my experience, using a tool like MSI Afterburner to disable overclocking swiftly resolves system instability issues. The simple interface makes the process efficient and is a straightforward solution to managing performance settings. You can follow these steps to get it done:

1. Download MSI Afterburner: Download and install MSI Afterburner > Launch it > Open Settings.

   

2. Configure Speed And Voltage: If available, enable Voltage Control > Set CPU Clock Speed and Voltage settings to Default > OK/Apply > Reboot your computer.
3. Confirm Settings: Use MSI Afterburner to confirm default CPU settings. Optionally, perform a stress test for stability.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

I often overclock my GPU when running high-quality games with 4K visuals to enhance the gaming experience. On the other hand, it may reduce the graphics card’s lifespan, so turn it off if you see unstable performance or overheating.

Using GPU Control Panel

If you want to stop your graphics card from working too hard, you can do it through the NVIDIA Control Panel for your GPU. This is important if you’re having trouble with your stability or want to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In case your graphics card is acting up and your computer is unstable. You can fix it by turning off the overclocking using the NVIDIA Control Panel unless it’s crashing or missing essential options. I have listed the steps to get it done easily:

1. Launch NVIDIA Control Panel: Right-click on the Desktop > NVIDIA Control Panel > Select Manage 3D Settings or Performance.
2. Reset GPU Settings: Press the Reset or Restore button in Settings to reset GPU settings to Default.

   

3. Turn Off Vsync: Disable Vsync > Apply > OK > Restart your computer.

   

Pros & Cons Of Overclocking

Final Thoughts

Exploring the widespread overclocking issue, users have reported errors on forums and other platforms. Questions arise about fixing it, and to deal with that, we have scanned the internet, looking for and trying various methods in order to make the task and information easier for you to find in one spot.

More About Overclocking:

• How To Overclock RAM? Everything To Know
• 12 Best GPU Overclocking Software In 2023
• Can Overclocking Damage The GPU? [Answered]
• Does Overclocking RAM Increase FPS? [Explained]

Abdul Hadi

[How-To Guides Expert]

Laiba, our tech guru at HI Digital, simplifies and crafts How-To Guides with a Google IT Support Certificate. Beyond tech, she captures the city’s aesthetics through her lens. Join her journey where tech meets creativity!

Get In Touch: Laiba@hidgt.com