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Windows 11 Sleep Mode Not Working? 6 Ways to Fix it

Get back to saving energy with the sleep mode using these fixes

7 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Sleep Mode is one of the most valuable features of the Windows 11 operating system. It puts your device in a low-power state and lets you get back exactly where you left off.

It’s a great way to save on electricity without turning off your system and avoids the hassle of having to open all of your apps again.

It’s best used when you’re away from your computer for a short while. The Sleep mode, like hibernation, ensures that your power supply unit doesn’t overheat from extended use.

Users have reported that sleep mode is not working on their Windows 11 devices.

In this guide, we will show you the best ways to fix issues with this superb feature on Windows 11.

Why does my Windows 11 not sleep?

Why does my Windows 11 not sleep?

If Windows 11 is not entering Sleep, it might be because of outdated display drivers. You can fix this by updating them manually or with a dedicated tool.

Wrong power settings can also cause this issue. You only need to adjust it here, and things should be back to normal.

What are the differences between Sleep and Hibernation mode?

Windows 11 also has a hibernation mode that is similar to Sleep mode but has a distinct difference.

Whereas Sleep mode puts a computer in a low power state, hibernation mode has the computer take in a minimal amount of power while saving all the current settings on the hard drive. After that, it enters a state of being almost entirely off.

Hibernation mode takes a bit longer to turn on when the computer exits this state. You use this mode when you aren’t using your laptop for an extended period but don’t want to lose anything.

Check our excellent guide for a more detailedcomparison between hibernation and Sleep mode.

How to fix Sleep Mode not working on Windows 11?

How to fix Sleep Mode not working on Windows 11?

1. Set Sleep mode time manually

If the Sleep mode is not working automatically on Windows 11, it might be because the time settings are too long. By setting the timer yourself, you should be able to fix the issue.

2. Edit power plan settings

If the processor fans are still running after activating the Sleep mode on Windows 11, it might be down to your power settings. This fix should restore normalcy in this case.

3. Update display driver

After updating your drivers, check if the Windows 11 Sleep mode is still not working.

The Sleep mode not working on Windows 11 issue may appear due to outdated display drivers on your PC.

To resolve power state issues, update graphics drivers with their latest versions. You can perform this action using Control Panel and search for available drivers in your system.

Yet, this process will eat a significant amount of time. But thankfully, you have dedicated software named Outbyte Driver Updater that can update old or broken drivers immediately.

This tool will scan your system for outdated drivers in seconds and find the official drivers from its extensive online database.

Outbyte Driver Updater

4. Disable hybrid mode

The Hybrid mode might be why the sleep mode is not working on Windows 11. While this feature is good, combining Sleep and hibernation can affect sleep mode.

5. Disable wake timers

6. Deactivate fast startup

How do I force Sleep in Windows 11?

If your Windows 11 PC is not entering the Sleep mode automatically, you can enable it to sleep with the power button or the keyboard shortcut.

You can make Windows 11 sleep with theAlt+F4shortcut or theWindows+Xvia the power user settings. Also, you can force it to Sleep by pressing the power button once.

Issues with the sleep mode on Windows 11 can be frustrating, as it takes away a significant power and time-saving feature. But with the fixes in this guide, you should be able to solve the problem effectively.

Are you having other issues likeBlack Screen After Sleep on Windows 10 and 11? Then, check our guide for the quick ways to fix it quickly.

Feel free to let us know if this guide’s solutions helped you fix the Windows 11 sleep mode not working issue in the comments below.

More about the topics:Windows 11

Cesar Cadenas

Networking & Security Specialist

Cesar has been writing for and about technology going on for 6 years when he first started writing tech articles for his university paper. Since then, his passion for technology blossomed into a prosperous writing career. He first started writing about tech in the entertainment world and would later move on to write about smart life tech and social media. He was recently a Technical Writer for tech company Extron where he wrote user guides for audio and video equipment.

He has since moved on to being a freelance writer looking to have a career in copywriting and hopes to share his love and knowledge of technology with the world. Recently, Cesar has written for the cryptocurrency news site, BTCPro and helping people understand tech.

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Cesar Cadenas

Networking & Security Specialist

Cesar is a tech expert passionate about Windows, Microsoft, and anything surrounding the world of PCs.