Downloads in Sleep Mode: Does Windows Keep Them Running?

Downloads in Sleep Mode: Does Windows Keep Them Running?

Ever wondered if your Windows 10 or 11 PC continues downloading files while in sleep mode? Learn how to keep downloads running and even disable sleep mode on your laptop, ensuring uninterrupted progress Find out more!

Some Noticeable Information

Downloads cannot continue running while your PC is in sleep mode, as the system disables the disk and prevents the file download progress.

To ensure uninterrupted downloads when closing your laptop's lid, follow these steps:

1. Go to Control Panel, then select Hardware and Sound, and click on Power Options.

2. Under the section "Choose What Closing the Lid Does," choose "Do Nothing" from the drop-down menu for "When I Close the Lid."

3. Click on "Save Changes" to apply the settings.

To prevent your PC from entering sleep mode automatically, do the following:

1. Access Control Panel, then click on Hardware and Sound, and select Power Options.

2. In the section "Change When the Computer Sleeps," choose "Never" from the drop-down menu for "Put the Computer to Sleep."

3. Click on "Save Changes" to save the updated settings.

Can You Keep Downloads Running While Windows Is in Sleep Mode?

Downloading Files in Sleep Mode: Windows 11 vs Windows 10

Are you wondering if Windows 11 or Windows 10 can continue your file downloads while your PC is in sleep mode? Concerned that your download might be interrupted when your PC goes to sleep? In this guide, we will address these queries and provide you with valuable tips. Let's get started.

The answer to that question is negative.

How to Keep Downloads Running While Your Laptop's Lid Is Closed

When you close the lid of your laptop, your Windows 11 or Windows 10 system automatically enters sleep mode by default. Consequently, this can interrupt any ongoing downloads. To avoid this, you have the option of keeping the laptop operational even when the lid is closed.

To implement this adjustment, begin by opening the Control Panel. Then, navigate to the "Hardware and Sound" section.

Downloads in Sleep Mode: Does Windows Keep Them Running?

On the following screen, select "Power Options".

Downloads in Sleep Mode: Does Windows Keep Them Running?

From the left sidebar, select "Choose What Closing the Lid Does".

Downloads in Sleep Mode: Does Windows Keep Them Running?

On the screen that opens, from the drop-down menus next to "When I Close the Lid", choose "Do Nothing". Then, at the bottom, select "Save Changes".

Downloads in Sleep Mode: Does Windows Keep Them Running?

All done! Now, you can close your laptop’s lid and your system won’t enter sleep mode. Your downloads and other tasks will continue as usual.

How to Turn Off Sleep Mode on Your Windows PC

If you have a tower PC that automatically enters sleep mode and interrupts your file downloads, turn off the sleep mode feature.

To do that on your Windows 11 or 10 PC, open Control Panel and navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power Options. In the left sidebar, select "Change When the Computer Sleeps".

Downloads in Sleep Mode: Does Windows Keep Them Running?

On the following screen, in the "Put the Computer to Sleep" drop-down menus, select "Never" for both. Then, click "Save Changes".

Downloads in Sleep Mode: Does Windows Keep Them Running?

And that’s it. From now on, your PC will never enter sleep mode automatically, ensuring your downloads aren’t interrupted.

Editor's P/S

As an enthusiastic fan of technology, I find the topic of downloads in sleep mode quite intriguing. The ability to keep downloads running while a PC is in sleep mode can be a great convenience, especially for large files or multiple downloads. However, it's important to understand the potential drawbacks, such as increased power consumption and potential wear and tear on the hard drive.

The guide provided in the article is quite helpful in explaining how to keep downloads running in sleep mode, as well as how to disable sleep mode altogether. The steps are clear and concise, making it easy for anyone to follow. I appreciate the inclusion of screenshots, as they provide a visual aid that can be helpful for those who are less tech-savvy.

Overall, I think this article provides valuable information for anyone who wants to optimize their download experience. Whether you're a casual user or a power user, understanding how downloads work in sleep mode can help you make informed decisions about how to configure your PC.