How-To: Shift + Shutdown Your Laptop
Holding down the Shift key while clicking Shut down on a Windows PC performs a full shutdown of the system: By default, Windows 10 and 11 perform a hybrid shutdown instead of a full shutdown. A full shutdown clears everything out and allows the PC to start over from scratch. This can help speed up the PC and fix system problems. You might want to perform a full shutdown when troubleshooting issues with your PC. For example, if you're trying to fix a problematic service, a full shutdown might help resolve the issue.
- Disconnect the laptop from docking station or charger
- Open the lid of the laptop so you can access the keyboard
- Hold the Shift key down on your laptop keyboard while you select Shut down from the Start menu > Power options list. Keep the Shift key held down until all the lights are off and the computer is completely shut down. Allow the computer to remain powered off for 30 seconds or so:
- Turn the computer back on with the power button
- Reconnect computer to the docking station and sign back in
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