Forum Discussion
Windows 11 doesn't enter sleep mode automatically
Hi, when sleep settings are correct but the PC stays awake, something is usually making a power request.
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
`powercfg /requests`
That should show if an app, audio stream, driver, service, or network component is blocking sleep. Also check:
1. Power & battery settings for screen/sleep timeouts.
2. Advanced power settings for multimedia sharing and wake timers.
3. Device Manager network adapter settings, especially "Allow this device to wake the computer."
4. `powercfg /lastwake` after the PC wakes unexpectedly.
If `powercfg /requests` names a process, that is the thing to fix first. Common causes are media apps, browser tabs, backup tools, remote access tools, and outdated display/network drivers.
I think the advice about checking powercfg /requests is a good place to start. I'd also check if the problem began after installing a Windows update or new drivers, since outdated or conflicting drivers can interfere with Windows sleep settings.
Another step worth trying is a full system clean up. Disable unnecessary startup programs, remove software you no longer use, update your chipset and display drivers, and restart the PC. Background processes are often responsible for preventing the system from entering sleep mode.
If the issue continues after that, it's worth looking into the hardware side. A professional computer repair service can run diagnostic tests to determine whether the problem is related to the motherboard, power management, or another failing component.