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9 Quickest Ways to Lock Your Windows 10 PC
All the ways you can lock the screen in Windows 10
6 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Windows 10 remains one of the most successful iterations of the OS and still commands a significantmarket share. For an operating system this massively employed, it’s vital that users understand how to ensure security. And the first step towards it is to lock Windows 10.
While many look for the auto lock in Windows 10, others try to find ways to lock the screen after inactivity. No matter the case, the OS offers a suitable option for each. Keep reading to find out how to lock the screen on Windows 10!
Why should I lock the computer?
Locking the PC offers several vital advantages, most related to security and privacy. It prevents others from accessing critical files, personal data, or login information, whether stored locally or oncloud storage. Though with the latter, we usually have another verification to complete.
But as per reports, leaving the PC unlocked even for a few minutes in the office, or any public space, for that matter, can put the data at risk. Experts strongly recommend locking Windows 10 or any other device that has vital data.
Besides, unlocking a locked computer is simpler since the background processes keep running, and the device resumes operation from where you last left. So, you don’t have to launch them all manually, as is the case with a restart.
How can I lock my Windows 10 PC?
1. Use the dedicated keyboard shortcut
By far, the simplest way out there is the keyboard shortcut to lock the screen in Windows 10. No matter the task, you can always press Windows + L, which will automatically lock the computer.
This is also the most used method, given its ease and simplicity. But for many who don’t prefer keyboard shortcuts and would rather go with the GUI methods, the ones listed next should do the trick.
2. From the Security Options window
While most of us generallyopen the Task Managerfrom theSecurity Optionswindow, it also lists a dedicated button to quickly lock Windows 10.
3. With the Start menu
When looking to quickly lock Windows 10, an easy approach would be to use the Start menu. The lock option here immediately secures the PC from any unauthorized access while you are away.
4. Via the Task Manager
The Task Manager, too, allows an easy way to lock Windows within a few clicks. Besides, it also lists all the other user accounts on the PC, thus providing you with detailed information in case you plan to log into another one.
5. Through the Command Prompt
The Command Prompt is a useful command-line tool that performs complex tasks within seconds. And for the simpler ones, it takes an even shorter period.
The problem here is that users have to remember the command or keep it stored somewhere easily accessible. But this, too, can be eliminated by creating a desktop shortcut instead.
6. With a desktop shortcut
Now, anytime you double-click on the shortcut, it would automatically lock Windows 10, and users would be required to re-enter the password or use biometrics, if applicable, to gain access.
7. By reconfiguring the Screen Saver Settings
With this method, you can set the time period after the screen saver appears, and the PC is locked. It’s a great method to auto-lock Windows 10 after inactivity, but experts recommend manually locking the computer instead for enhanced security.
Also, you mustn’t set the time period too low since the PC may lock while working. Besides, setting it too high gives others a significant margin to access the computer when you step away. So choose the time period that works best in your case.
8. Using the Dynamic Lock feature
That’s it! Though slightly tricky to set up for some users, an effective way to automatically lock Windows 10 when you step away is to enableDynamic Lock.
The feature identifies when you move away through Bluetooth connectivity (signal strength), and as soon as you are at a distance from the PC, it will automatically lock.
A major drawback with Windows 10 Dynamic Lock/Unlock is that you would have to take the phone, or any other device used when stepping away.
9. Remotely locking Windows 10
You can also remotely lock Windows 10, automatically logging out any active users and preventing local accounts from accessing the PC. However, administrator accounts will still have access. Remember, it should always be used as a last resort only in critical situations.
And now that you know all the ways to lock a Windows 10 PC, check some quick tips toenhance security by reconfiguring the settingsin Windows.
For any queries or to share which method works best for you, comment below.
More about the topics:Lock Screen,windows 10
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
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