WINDOW 11

How to Shut Down Windows 11 Using Keyboard – Easy Shortcuts & Tips

7 SOLUTIONS
FEBRUARY 22, 2025

Shutting down Windows 11 via keyboard shortcuts enhances efficiency, saves time, and is handy when a mouse isn’t working. Below are seven distinct methods to achieve this without touching your mouse.

Deepak Yadav
Deepak Yadav

Expert, Head of Windows Circle

Functionality

Ensure your keyboard is responsive.

Save Work

Close unsaved documents/apps to prevent data loss.

Admin Rights (Optional)

Required only for command-line methods if restricted by system policies.

Alt + F4 (Fastest Way)

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

1/7

METHOD
Method 1
Overview

This is the easiest and quickest way to shut down your PC using only the keyboard.

Method 1 of 7
Next Method

Alt + F4

Press Windows + D to go to the desktop.

Press Alt + F4 to open the shutdown dialog.

Use ↓ arrow key to select Shut down.

Press Enter to confirm.

Note: Works only from the desktop.

Method 1 of 7
Step 1 of 1

Ctrl + Alt + Delete (For Frozen Systems)

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

2/7

METHOD
Method 2
Overview

If your system is stuck or unresponsive, this method works well.

Method 2 of 7
Next Method

Ctrl + Alt + Delete

Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete.

Press Tab to highlight the power icon.

Press Enter, then ↓ arrow key to select Shut down.

Press Enter again to confirm.

Method 2 of 7
Step 1 of 1

Windows + X Menu (Minimal Effort)

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

3/7

METHOD
Method 3
Overview

This method is slightly longer but works reliably when your PC is still responsive.

Method 3 of 7
Next Method

Windows + X

Press Windows + X to open the Quick Menu.

Press U, then U again to shut down.

Method 3 of 7
Step 1 of 1

Windows + D + Alt + F4 (Ensured Desktop Access)

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

4/7

METHOD
Method 4
Overview

If you’re unsure whether your apps are minimized, this method ensures you're on the desktop before shutting down.

Method 4 of 7
Next Method

Windows + D + Alt + F4

Press Windows + D to minimize all windows.

Press Alt + F4 to bring up the shutdown dialog.

Use ↓ arrow key to select Shut down.

Press Enter to shut down.

Method 4 of 7
Step 1 of 1

Command Prompt Method (For Power Users)

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

5/7

METHOD
Method 5
Overview

If you like using commands, this method is both geeky and effective.

Method 5 of 7
Next Method

Using Command Prompt

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.

Type cmd and press Enter.

Type shutdown /s /t 0 and press Enter.

Method 5 of 7
Step 1 of 1

Lock Screen Method (For Extra Security)

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

6/7

METHOD
Method 6
Overview

If you prefer to lock your PC before shutting it down, this method is for you.

Method 6 of 7
Next Method

Using Lock Screen

Press Windows + L to lock your PC.

Press Tab until the power icon is highlighted.

Press Enter, then ↓ arrow key to select Shut down.

Press Enter to confirm.

Method 6 of 7
Step 1 of 1

PowerShell Method (Another Command-Based Option)

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

7/7

METHOD
Method 7
Overview

PowerShell is another way to shut down your system with a simple command.

Method 7 of 7

Using PowerShell

Press Windows + R, type powershell, and press Enter.

Type Stop-Computer and press Enter.

Info: Unlike Command Prompt, PowerShell allows more automation options, which is useful if you want to schedule shutdowns.

Method 7 of 7
Step 1 of 1

Methods (7)

Alt + F4 (Fastest W...
1 Steps
Ctrl + Alt + Delete...
1 Steps
Windows + X Menu (M...
1 Steps
Windows + D + Alt +...
1 Steps
Command Prompt Meth...
1 Steps
Lock Screen Method ...
1 Steps
PowerShell Method (...
1 Steps

Related Post

Some Keys on Laptop Keyboard not working Windows 11 Top Pick
Read More
How to Reset All Settings in Windows 11 – Keyboard, Audio, Network, and More Top Pick
Read More
How to Partition C Drive in Windows 11 Without Data Loss Top Pick
Read More
How to Repair Windows 11 Image with DISM Commands Top Pick
Read More
Keyboard Backlight Not Working in Windows 11? Here’s the Fix for Dell, Asus, and Lenovo Top Pick
Read More
How to Create a Windows 11 ISO Without TPM and Secure Boot Top Pick
Read More