How to Restart a Computer by Using the Keyboard in Windows XP
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When you're having problems with Windows XP, restarting the computer is often the best way to go. Simply turning the machine off could result in file corruption or data loss. But if your mouse isn't working, you'll have to use keyboard commands to power down. While many people are familiar with the last-resort "Crtl-Alt-Delete" shortcut, XP includes other keyboard shortcuts that allow you to restart the system normally.
"Windows", "U," R"
1
Press the "Windows" key on your keyboard to activate the Start menu. If your keyboard doesn't have a key with the Windows logo, hold down the "Ctrl" key and then press the "Esc" key.
2
Press the "U" key to select the "Shut Down" button. If you've modified your Start menu, you may have to press "U" again to select the "Shut Down" button. You can also press the right-arrow key to select the button.
3
Press the "R" key select "Restart." As an alternative, you can use the down-arrow key to select "Restart" from the pop-up menu, and then press the "Enter" key.
"Alt-F4"
1
Hold down the "Alt" key, and then press the "F4" key. Windows closes any active application.
2
Repeat the previous step, if necessary, until all your programs are closed and you see a Windows dialog box that asks, "What do you want your computer to do?"
3
Use the down-arrow key to select "Restart," and then press the "Enter" key.
"Ctrl-Alt-Delete"
1
Press and hold the "Ctrl" and "Alt" keys on the keyboard, and then press the "Delete" key. If Windows is functioning properly, you'll see a dialog box with several options. If you don't see the dialog box after a few seconds, press "Ctrl-Alt-Delete" again to restart.
2
Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to select the "Shut Down" option, and then press the "Enter" key. Another window will appear with more options.
3
Use the "Tab" key to select the drop-down menu, and then use the down-arrow key to select "Restart" from the menu. Press the "Enter" key to restart your computer.
References
- Microsoft: Windows Keyboard Shortcuts Overview
Tips
- If Windows asks if you want to save an open file after you tell it to restart, use the arrow keys to select either "Save" or "Don't Save," and then press the "Enter" key.
Warnings
- Information in this article applies to Windows XP. It may vary slightly or significantly with other versions or products.
Writer Bio
Alan Sembera began writing for local newspapers in Texas and Louisiana. His professional career includes stints as a computer tech, information editor and income tax preparer. Sembera now writes full time about business and technology. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Texas A&M University.
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