How to fix screensaver and sleep mode after recent update

I Chestnutt 0 Reputation points
2026-08-23T18:57:13.4766667+00:00

After the August 2026 windows 11 update my hp laptop 15-dw-3xxx does not enter screensaver or sleep mode via time setting.

I have reset all the power settings and timers but screensaver never launches by itself. I also checked all registry entries and the power settings.

I can force the screensaver to work via a shortcut but it will not launch via time setting.

When I force the laptop into sleep mode it only lasts a few seconds before the login screen comes back up.

I have done DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth also sfc /scannow with negative results.

All my device drivers are up to date and I have run diagnostics to clean up corrupt files.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Windows update
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  1. Jassi Scott 0 Reputation points
    2026-08-26T07:49:24.1333333+00:00

    If this started right after an update, I’d first check the current Power & Sleep settings and make sure no third-party utility is overriding them. Also worth checking the active power plan and running powercfg /requests from an elevated Command Prompt - it can show what’s preventing sleep.

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  2. Ian-T 9,600 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-08-24T06:11:18.87+00:00

    Hi @I Chestnutt

    Since the screen saver works from a shortcut, the likely cause is a device or background process continuously resetting the idle timer and waking the laptop.

    Run these commands in Terminal (Admin):

    powercfg /requests

    powercfg /lastwake

    powercfg /waketimers

    powercfg /devicequery wake_armed

    If a keyboard, mouse, USB receiver, or network adapter is listed, open Device Manager > device Properties > Power Management and temporarily disable Allow this device to wake the computer. Also disconnect nonessential USB devices and test again.

    If a keyboard, mouse, USB receiver, or network adapter is listed, open Device Manager > device Properties > Power Management and temporarily disable Allow this device to wake the computer. Also disconnect nonessential USB devices and test again. If nothing is identified, test with a clean boot to determine whether an HP utility or another startup application is interfering with the idle timer.

    Disclaimer: A “clean boot” starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background service is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem.    

    These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by step so that it will help you get back on track.  

    Finally, install the BIOS and chipset drivers from HP for the exact laptop model, even if Device Manager reports that the drivers are current.

    I hope this helps, please feel free to let me know if you need any further assistance

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