2 ways to lock a Windows computer from your keyboard and quickly secure your data

You can't accuse Windows of not giving you enough ways to lock your computer. 

In addition to locking it from the Start menu, letting it lock automatically after a period of inactivity, and even using Bluetooth to lock when it senses you've left, there are two ways to lock Windows with quick keyboard shortcuts. 

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How to lock Windows from your keyboard 

Both keyboard shortcuts accomplish the same thing, so you can use whichever one is more convenient or easier for you to remember. 

Here's how to lock your Windows PC from the keyboard.

Press Ctrl + Alt + Del

You might know the Ctrl + Alt + Del shortcut as an old-fashioned way to interrupt Windows and reboot the computer. 

Its purpose has changed over the years, however. These days, this three-key shortcut has a variety of functions — including letting you lock Windows.

Press the Ctrl, Alt, and Del keys at the same time. A screen of options should appear. When it does, click "Lock."

Press the Windows Key + L

There's an even faster way to lock the screen — do it in a single keystroke. 

Press the Windows and L keys at the same time. It should lock instantly. 

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