This article describes how to disable Windows from automatically restarting on system failure, giving you time to notice the error and troubleshoot it. The process below is similar for all versions of Windows, although it may vary slightly.

You can disable the automatic restart option on system failure in the Startup and Recovery section of System Properties, which you can access through the Control Panel.

Open Control Panel. In newer versions of Windows, the quickest way to search for control is through the Start menu or the Run dialog box.

If you're using Windows 7 or earlier, go to Start > Control Panel.