A Windows computer allows you to Shut down, Lock, Switch User, Sign Out, Log off, Hibernate or Sleep using keyboard shortcuts. Windows 11/10 offers the primary option via the WinX Menu. In Windows 8.1, you can do so via the Charms Bar and the WinX Menu. In Windows 7, you can do so via the Start Menu. In Windows 8, you had to do so via the Charms Bar. Some still prefer to use our freeware HotShut.
While you can always create Shutdown, Restart, Log Off, Suspend Shortcuts, in this post, we will see how to use keyboard shortcuts to Shut down or Lock a Windows computer.
Shut down or Lock Windows 11/10 using a keyboard shortcut
Windows offers several ways to shut down the computer. To use the shut down shortcut key, you have to be on the desktop. Follow these steps to Shut down, Sleep, Restart or Lock Windows 11/10 using a keyboard shortcut
- Press Win+D
- Press Alt+F4
- Select your option
- Click OK.
Windows shortcut for shutdown
So the first you have to do is press Win+D or click on ‘Show Desktop’ in Windows right-side corner
Now Press ALT+F4 keys and you will be immediately presented with the Shutdown dialog box.
Select an option with the arrow keys & press Enter. If you wish, you can also create a shortcut to open the Windows Shut Down Dialog Box.
To lock your Windows computer using the keyboard shortcut, press the WIN+L key.
I hope this helps!
TIP: There is an interesting way to Shutdown or Restart Windows 11/10/8/7 using keyboard keys only; you may want to check it out.
How do I shutdown a Windows computer quickly?
Press Alt+F4 (or Alt+Fn+F4 depending on your keyboard) and hit Enter again to shut down your Windows 11/10 PC quickly.
How do I shut down without the Start button?
Press Ctrl+Alt+Del on your keyboard, and you will see various Power options appear. Select Shut down and hit Enter, and your PC will shut down.
