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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
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Press and hold the Alt key. You can use the Alt key that's on the left or right side of your keyboard.
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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]
- Depending on some laptop models, you may need to press and hold the Fn key to use function keys (Fn+Alt+F4).
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Repeat the above process to close all applications. Press Alt+F4 until every browser and application is closed.[2]
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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]
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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.
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Press and hold the Ctrl key. You can use the Ctrl key on either side of your Space bar.[4]
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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]
- If you have a Touch ID sensor, pressing the Power button won't work.
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Use another keyboard shortcut. Press Ctrl+⌘ Command+Power or Ctrl+⌘ Cmd+Eject Media to force your Mac to restart.[6]
Community Q&A
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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.
Tips
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
1. Press and hold the Alt key (Windows).
2. Press and hold the F4 key (Windows).
3. Select "Restart" and press Enter (Windows).