Download Article
Download Article
If you're not able to use the mouse or trackpad on your computer, you can still reboot your PC or Mac using just your keyboard. Keyboard shortcuts like Alt + F4 for Windows and Control + ⏏ Eject for macOS can really come in handy when other input options aren't available. This wikiHow article will show you the easiest ways to restart your computer without a mouse or trackpad.
Steps
-
Press and hold the Alt key. You can use the Alt key that's on the left or right side of your keyboard. -
Press and hold the F4 key. You'll see a row of F keys at the top of your keyboard.- This key combination will close any active applications and windows, including any browser windows you have open. [1] X Trustworthy Source Microsoft Support Technical support and product information from Microsoft. Go to source
- Depending on some laptop models, you may need to press and hold the Fn key to use function keys ( Fn + Alt + F4 ).
Advertisement -
Repeat the above process to close all applications . Press Alt + F4 until every browser and application is closed. [2] X Research source -
Select "Restart" and press ↵ Enter . Using the directional arrow keys on your keyboard, select "Restart" from the drop-down menu if it isn't already selected.- This window will appear only if all the applications and windows are closed on your computer.
- After you've selected this, your computer will restart without the use of your mouse. [3] X Research source
-
Use different key shortcuts to restart (if the previous steps did not work for you). Press ⊞ Win + X then use your arrow keys to select Shut down or sign out and press Enter . Then, using the arrow keys, navigate to Restart and press Enter .
Advertisement
-
Press and hold the Ctrl key. You can use the Ctrl key on either side of your Space bar. [4] X Research source -
Press and hold the Power button (without a Touch ID sensor) or the Media Eject button (with a Touch ID sensor). A dialogue will pop up, asking if you want to restart, sleep, or shut down . Use your keyboard arrow keys to select "Restart" and press Return . [5] X Research source- If you have a Touch ID sensor, pressing the Power button won't work.
-
Use another keyboard shortcut. Press Ctrl + ⌘ Command + Power or Ctrl + ⌘ Cmd + Eject Media to force your Mac to restart. [6] X Research source
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search
-
QuestionHow can you restart a Windows 11?BhoimusTop AnswererThe method shown above for Windows 10 also works for Windows 11! If you have access to a mouse, you can go to the Start Menu > Power > Restart.
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Tips
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
References
- ↑ https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/keyboard-shortcuts-in-windows-dcc61a57-8ff0-cffe-9796-cb9706c75eec
- ↑ https://www.computerhope.com/jargon/a/alt-f4.htm#windows
- ↑ https://www.digitalcitizen.life/7-ways-shut-down-or-restart-windows-10-pc-or-device/
- ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201236
- ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201236
- ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201236
About This Article
Article Summary
X
1. Press and hold the Alt
key (Windows).
2. Press and hold the F4
key (Windows).
3. Select "Restart" and press Enter
(Windows).
Did this summary help you?
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 975,906 times.
Advertisement
