How to Restart PC with Keyboard: Quick Shortcuts Guide

Restarting your PC using only the keyboard is a valuable skill, especially when your mouse is unresponsive or you’re aiming for efficiency. This guide provides detailed methods to restart your Windows PC using keyboard shortcuts, ensuring you’re prepared for various scenarios.​

Why Restart Your PC Using the Keyboard?

Using keyboard shortcuts to restart your PC can be faster and more reliable, especially when:​

• The mouse is unresponsive.
• You’re working in a text-based environment.
• You prefer keyboard navigation for efficiency.

Knowing these methods ensures you can restart your PC in various situations without relying on the mouse.​

For a visual demonstration, you can watch the following video:​

Method 1: Alt + F4 Shortcut

This method is quick and works when you’re on the desktop.​

Steps:

1. Press Windows + D to show the desktop.
2. Press Alt + F4.
3. In the “Shut Down Windows” dialog, use the arrow keys to select “Restart”.
4. Press Enter to confirm.​

Note: If you have active windows, ensure they’re minimized or closed before using this shortcut.​

Method 2: Ctrl + Alt + Delete

This method is useful when your system is unresponsive.​

Steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete.
2. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the power icon in the bottom-right corner.
3. Press Enter to open power options.
4. Use the arrow keys to select “Restart” and press Enter.​

Method 3: Windows + X Menu

This method accesses the Power User menu.​

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X.
2. Press U to open the “Shut down or sign out” menu.
3. Press R to select “Restart”.​

Note: This method works on Windows 10 and 11.​

Method 4: Run Command

Using the Run dialog allows for a direct restart command.​

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type shutdown -r -t 0 and press Enter.​

This command initiates an immediate restart.​

Method 5: Command Prompt

For users comfortable with the Command Prompt:​

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
2. In the Command Prompt, type shutdown /r /t 0 and press Enter.​

This command restarts the PC immediately.​

Method 6: Safe Mode Restart

To restart your PC into Safe Mode:​

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the “Boot” tab.
3. Use the Tab key to select “Safe boot” and press Space to check it.
4. Press Enter to apply and restart.​

Note: This method requires administrative privileges.​

Method 7: Force Restart

If your system is completely unresponsive:​

Steps:

1. Press and hold the power button on your PC for about 5-10 seconds until it shuts down.
2. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.

Caution: This method can lead to data loss. Use only when necessary.​

Tips for Effective Keyboard Use

• Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts to improve efficiency.
• Keep your keyboard clean and functional to prevent key malfunctions.
• Consider using external keyboards with additional shortcut keys for enhanced productivity.​

Conclusion

Knowing how to restart your PC using the keyboard is a valuable skill that can save time and help in situations where the mouse is unavailable. By mastering these methods, you ensure that you’re prepared to handle various scenarios efficiently.​