Alternatively called hung, hang describes when a computer or software program running on the computer stops operating. A computer may hang when trying to run a program, boot, or close out of a program.

A computer or software can hang due to multiple reasons, including the following:

  • Hardware or software conflicts.
  • Software errors or failure.
  • Computer waiting for a response from a hardware device.
  • Defective RAM chip or memory errors.
  • Computer overheating.

Computer slang, Frozen, Hang up, Lock up, Software terms

  • What should I do when a computer freezes or locks up?
  • Windows freezes or stops responding frequently.
  • Why do computers get problems?
  • Basic computer troubleshooting