How To Shut Down PC With A Keyboard [All Methods]

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Abdul Hadi

At HI Digital I test and write about different hardware configurations to show other PC users what they can expect from their build. My end goal is to educate the masses to make the right decision when they are looking for new PC parts to buy

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In rare cases, you might want to shut down your PC with a keyboard, especially when the power button or the mouse is not working. There are several effective shortcuts for this task, such as using the Alt + F4 keys. 

Key Takeaways

• Proper shutdown of your computer is essential to maintain its health and performance.
• Alt + F4 or Win + X are the two most commonly used shortcut keyboard keys for quick shutdown. 
• Make sure to back up your data regularly to prevent data loss during unexpected shutdowns.

Windows

I came across multiple keyboard shortcuts that worked like a charm to turn off my Windows 11 PC. All of them take you to more or less the same menu where you can shut down the PC.

Alt + F4

You can use this keyboard shortcut when the desktop is in focus. Press the Alt + F4 keys and select Shut Down in the Shut Down Windows dialog.

Windows Key + X

This shortcut pushes forward a Power User Menu with many options. Press and hold the Windows + X keys, then hit U to expand the Shutdown Or Sign-Out section. Go with Shut Down.

Ctrl + Alt + Del

Here are the steps I followed:

1. Hit The Right Keys: Press the Ctrl + Alt + Del > Press the Power button icon in the lower right corner.
2. Select Shut Down: Navigate to Shut Down Or Sign Out > Shut Down.

Using Command Prompt

Here’s how to put it to use:

1. Execute Code In Run: Use Win + R to launch Run box > Execute cmd > Enter.
2. Enter Code In Command Prompt: Type shutdown/s > Enter.

   

The Run Method

All I did was launch the Run menu and execute the code, Shutdown –s. Take care of the space or copy the code as it is to ensure it works for you. 

Win + L

On some systems, pressing Windows Key + L locks the computer. Next, click on the Power symbol and choose to Shut Down the computer from the mini-menu.

Ctrl + Esc

Ctrl + Esc opens the Start menu. Use the arrow keys to navigate the Power options and proceed to Shut Down.

Mac

All these previously discussed methods are applied to Windows users. If you are a Mac user, do not worry; there are some keyboard shortcut keys for you guys.

Option + Command + Power Button

This combination brings up a dialog box with options to Restart, Sleep, or Shut Down your Mac. Select Shut Down.

Control + Option + Command + Power Button

On some older Mac keyboards that have an Eject key, you can use this shortcut to bring up the same dialog box for Restart, Sleep, or Shut Down.

Control + Command + Power Button

Hitting Control + Command + Power keys simultaneously to power off the Mac. However, this combination will force your Mac to shut down immediately without showing any confirmation dialog.

Similar Guides:

• How To Shut Down Laptop From Keyboard? [Mac & Windows]
• All Methods To Restart Computer With Keyboard
• How To Lock Computer With Keyboard? [All Methods]

Abdul Hadi

[How-To Guides Expert]

Laiba, our tech guru at HI Digital, simplifies and crafts How-To Guides with a Google IT Support Certificate. Beyond tech, she captures the city’s aesthetics through her lens. Join her journey where tech meets creativity!

Get In Touch: Laiba@hidgt.com