Restarting Windows 10 with just your keyboard (without using your mouse) is a simple and quick process. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to navigate through the necessary steps efficiently, using only keyboard shortcuts. Whether your mouse has failed or you just prefer using the keyboard, this guide will have you covered.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Restart Windows 10 with Keyboard
In this section, you’ll find clear, detailed steps to restart your Windows 10 computer using only the keyboard. Let’s jump in!
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Press the Windows key on your keyboard.
The Windows key is usually located in the lower-left corner of your keyboard, between the Ctrl and Alt keys. This action will open the Start Menu, giving you access to various system functions.
Step 2: Navigate to the Power Options
Press Tab until the Power icon is highlighted, then press Enter.
Once the Start Menu is open, you need to use the Tab key to cycle through the options until the Power icon (which looks like a power button) is selected. Pressing Enter will open the Power Options.
Step 3: Select Restart
Press the Down Arrow key until “Restart” is highlighted, then press Enter.
After the Power Options menu appears, use the Down Arrow key to navigate to the “Restart” option. Once it is highlighted, pressing Enter will initiate the restart process.
Step 4: Wait for Your Computer to Restart
Your computer will now begin the restart process.
This step involves waiting for your computer to shut down and then start up again. The time it takes can vary based on your system’s performance and the tasks it was running.
After you complete these steps, your Windows 10 computer will shut down and restart. This process will close all applications and refresh your system, giving you a clean slate to work with.
Tips for Restarting Windows 10 with Keyboard
- Practice Makes Perfect: Familiarize yourself with the keyboard shortcuts to ensure a smooth and quick restart process.
- Keep it Simple: Use the Windows key for quick access to the Start Menu.
- Know Your Keys: Understand the location of essential keys like Tab, Enter, and the Arrow keys.
- Stay Patient: If the computer takes a bit longer to restart, don’t panic; it’s often due to background updates or tasks.
- Stay Updated: Ensure your system is up-to-date to avoid frequent restarts due to updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I restart my computer if my mouse isn’t working?
Absolutely! This guide shows you how to restart Windows 10 using only your keyboard.
What do I do if my computer doesn’t restart?
Make sure you followed each step correctly. If it still doesn’t work, you might need to force a restart by holding down the power button on your computer.
Are there other ways to restart using the keyboard?
Yes, you can use the command prompt or other keyboard shortcuts, but this guide focuses on the easiest method through the Start Menu.
Will I lose my unsaved work?
Yes, restarting your computer will close all open applications. Make sure to save your work before restarting.
Does this method work on all versions of Windows 10?
Yes, this method should work across all versions of Windows 10.
Summary
- Press the Windows key.
- Press Tab until the Power icon is highlighted, then press Enter.
- Press the Down Arrow key until “Restart” is highlighted, then press Enter.
Conclusion
Restarting Windows 10 with just your keyboard is a handy skill to have, especially when your mouse isn’t cooperating. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently restart your computer and get back to what matters most.
Remember to save your work before initiating a restart to avoid any data loss. For further reading, consider exploring more keyboard shortcuts and tips to enhance your productivity in Windows 10. Now that you’ve got this down, why not share these steps with friends or colleagues who might find them useful? Restarting Windows 10 with keyboard shortcuts can be a game-changer for anyone looking to streamline their computer use.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.