Windows keyboard key shortcuts

Windows keyboard key shortcuts

Below is a listing of Windows keys that can be used on computers running a Microsoft Windows 95 or later and using a keyboard with a Windows key. In the below list of shortcuts, the Windows key is represented by "WIN KEY" and because not all these shortcuts will work in all versions of Windows we've mentioned what versions of Windows support each Windows key shortcut key.

All versions of Windows

WIN KEY

Pressing the Windows key alone opens or hides the Windows Start menu. In Windows 8, this opens or hides the Start screen.

WIN KEY + F1

Open the Microsoft Windows help and support center.

WIN KEY + Pause / Break key

Open the System Properties window.

WIN   KEY + D

Opens the Desktop to the top of all other windows.

WIN KEY + E

Open Microsoft Windows Explorer.

WIN KEY + F

Display the Windows Search or Find feature.

WIN KEY + Ctrl + F

Display the search for computers window.

WIN KEY + L

Lock the computer and switch users if needed (Windows XP and above only).

WIN KEY + M

Minimizes all windows.

WIN KEY + Shift + M

Undo the minimize done by WINKEY + M and WINKEY + D.

WIN KEY + R

Open the run window.

WIN KEY + U

Open Utility Manager or the Ease of Access Center.