How do I quickly lock my computer when walking away?
You'll be able to: Lock your computer screen instantly
- Risk
- Safe to try
- Windows
- Windows 11 · Windows 10
Filed under Safety & privacy
The steps
- 1
Hold the Windows key and press the letter L on your keyboard. Your open windows immediately hide, and the Windows lock screen with the large clock and date appears.

What does locking actually do?
Locking secures your screen without closing any of your open programs or losing unsaved work. Everything stays running in the background until you return.
- 2
When you return to your computer, press any key on your keyboard or click your mouse. The sign-in box appears with your account name.
- 3
Enter your PIN or password and press Enter. The lock screen lifts away, returning you directly to all your open windows exactly as you left them.
It looks different on my screen
You can also lock your PC by clicking the Start button, clicking your profile picture or name icon, and selecting Lock.
Did this work?
Updated 2026-08-24اقرأ بالعربية