SMALL STEPS. USEFUL SKILLS.
Restart your Windows computer
Restart Windows and let it start up again.
Use the pictures where shown. Follow the short instructions between them.
STEP 1 OF 4
Save your work, then open Start
Save any open documents. Select the Windows logo on the taskbar to open Start.
A matching screen picture is not available for this step. Follow the instruction above, or open the manufacturer’s guide if your menus differ.
Open Microsoft Support guidancePrefer to see all the steps together?+
STEP 1
Save your work, then open Start
Save any open documents. Select the Windows logo on the taskbar to open Start.
STEP 2
Open the Power menu
Select the Power symbol in Start.
STEP 3
Choose Restart
Select Restart. Let the computer shut down and start again by itself.
This close-up already highlights Restart in red. The Power menu is open in this picture; your Start menu position and other entries may differ.
STEP 4
Sign back in
Wait for the sign-in screen, then sign in as usual.
If Windows is completely frozen, use your device maker’s force-restart instructions: the button and hold time vary by model. Only force a shutdown if Restart from the Start menu does not work, since unsaved work can be lost.
IF SOMETHING LOOKS DIFFERENT
A little help along the way.
Your menus may look different after an update. Look for the same control name and take your time.
I cannot find that option+
Check that this guide covers your device and software. If the names do not match, use the manufacturer’s instructions linked below for your model.
I need to go back a step+
Use Previous step or select a step number above. This changes the guide only; it does not undo anything on your device.
Are these pictures of my device?+
They are example screens showing exactly where to tap. Your names, apps, wallpaper and layout may look a little different, but the options you need are the same. Some pictures show what you should see after a step.