Sleep Mode in Windows 11 — How to Enable, Disable, and Configure

Sleep mode is a useful feature in Windows 11 that allows you to save energy and quickly resume your work without restarting the system. In this article, we'll explain how to enable, disable, and configure sleep mode in Windows 11 to make the most of this feature.

What is Sleep Mode in Windows 11?

Sleep mode is a state in which your computer stops performing tasks but keeps all your data saved either on the hard drive or in the RAM. This allows for a quick resume without the need to boot up the system from scratch, making it a convenient option for users who want to continue where they left off.

How to Enable or Disable Sleep Mode in Windows 11

Enabling or disabling sleep mode in Windows 11 can be done in a few different ways, depending on your preferences. Here are two of the most common methods.

1. Through System Settings

  1. Open Settings by clicking on the Start button and selecting the settings icon (or use the keyboard shortcut Win + I).
  2. In the settings menu, select System, and then go to the Power & battery section.
  3. Click on Additional power settings under the Related settings section.
  4. Find the Sleep section and choose how long your computer should wait before entering sleep mode when on battery power or plugged in.
  5. If you want to disable sleep mode, select Never for both options.

2. Through Control Panel

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Control Panel.
  2. Go to Power Options.
  3. Click on Choose what the power buttons do.
  4. Here, you can adjust when your computer will enter sleep mode, or choose Never to disable it.

How to Configure Additional Sleep Mode Settings

If you'd like to configure advanced settings, such as setting different sleep times for when you're using battery power versus when plugged in, follow these steps:

  1. Go to Settings — System — Power & battery.
  2. In the Related Settings section, click on Additional power settings.
  3. In the window that opens, click on Change plan settings, and then select Change advanced power settings.
  4. Here, you can customize the sleep settings and configure various power options for your system.

What to Do If Sleep Mode Isn’t Working?

Sometimes, sleep mode may not function properly. This can be due to a number of reasons, such as system errors, incorrect settings, or third-party software interfering with the feature. To fix the issue, try the following steps:

  • Check your power settings and make sure sleep mode is enabled.
  • Update your device drivers, especially for the graphics card and chipset.
  • Run the built-in Windows diagnostic tool by going to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  • Check for Windows updates and install any available updates.