How to Turn Off Sleep Mode in Windows

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

After a period of inactivity, Windows will automatically turn off or go into a standby state to save power or battery life - this is known as Sleep Mode. While Sleep Mode is designed to be helpful, it can be inconvenient depending on how you use your computer. This guide will demonstrate step by step how to disable Sleep Mode on your machine.

Tools You'll Need:

  • A paperclip
  • iPhone charging cable
  • Access to a computer with iTunes installed
  • Any other non-consumable tools needed
  • Comment out tools section if no tools are necessary

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Supplies You'll Need:

  • Zip ties
  • Any other consumable supplies
  • Comment out supplies section if no supplies are necessary

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Before You Begin:

  • Be at your computer.

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Microsoft Windows

2. Version Choice

There are 3 main versions of Windows currently supported.

Windows 10

Released in 2015, this is the latest version of Windows. It is fully supported by Microsoft.

Windows 10 Desktop

If you are not sure, most likely you have Windows 10.

Windows 8

Released in 2012, Microsoft only offers extended bug-fix and patch support, no new features.

Windows 8 Desktop

Windows 7

Released in 2009, Microsoft only offers extended bug-fix and patch support, no new features.

Windows 7 Desktop

3. Configure Power & Sleep

  1. Open the Start Menu.
start menu icon


  1. Choose the Settings icon.
settings icon


  1. Choose the System icon.
system icon


  1. On the left side of the screen, choose Power & sleep.
system menu with power and sleep highlighted


  1. Change Screen and Sleep settings as needed.
Power and sleep settings with turn off time choices highlighted

4. Configure Power & Sleep

  1. Open the Start Menu and select Settings.
Windows Menu

Settings
  1. Select PC and devices on the left.
PC settings with PC and devices highlighted.
  1. Select Power and sleep on the left.
PC and devices with Power and Sleep highlighted
  1. Change Screen and Sleep settings as needed on the right.
Power and sleep with Screen and Sleep setting highlighted.

5. Configure Power & Sleep

  1. Open the Start menu and select Control Panel on the right.
Start Menu

Start Menu with Control Panel highlighted.
  1. Select System and Security.
Control Panel with System and Security highlighted.
  1. Select Power Options.
System and Security Control Panel with Power Options highlighted.
  1. Select Balanced, then select Change plan settings to the right.
Power Options with Balanced and Change plan settings highlighted.
  1. Change the Display and Sleep settings as needed. When done, select Save changes.
Edit Plan Settings with Display, Sleep, and Save changes highlighted.