To lock your screen in Windows 10, press Windows + L. Your apps and files stay open, and you need your PIN, password, or Windows Hello to get back in.
You can also press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Lock, or select Start, your account picture, and Lock.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 25, 2026.
Method 1: Press Windows + L
This is the fastest way. It works from any app, and on any keyboard with a Windows logo key.
Method 2: Use Ctrl + Alt + Delete
- Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete.
- Select Lock.
This also works in a Remote Desktop session when you use Ctrl + Alt + End instead.
- Select Start.
- Select your account picture on the left.
- Select Lock.
Method 4: Lock automatically when you walk away
Dynamic lock locks your PC shortly after your paired phone goes out of Bluetooth range.
- Pair your phone with your PC in Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Under Dynamic lock, check Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you’re away.
While you’re there, set Require sign-in to When PC wakes up from sleep, so your PC locks after it sleeps.
Method 5: Lock after a set time
Use the screen saver to lock your PC when you’re away for a few minutes. For more screen saver options, see how to set a screen saver in Windows 10.
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen and select Screen saver settings.
- Choose a screen saver, or (None) for a blank screen, and set Wait to the number of minutes.
- Check On resume, display logon screen, then select OK.
Method 6: Use Task Manager
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Select More details if you see the small view.
- Select the Users tab.
- Right-click your name and select Disconnect, then confirm. Your session stays open behind the lock screen.
Make a lock shortcut
- Right-click the desktop and select New > Shortcut.
- Type
rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStationand select Next. - Name it Lock and select Finish. Double-click it to lock your PC.
Lock, sign out, or sleep?
- Lock: your apps stay open. Use it when you step away.
- Sign out: closes your apps. Save your work first.
- Sleep: saves power and locks your PC if Require sign-in is on.
- Hibernate: saves your work and uses no power. See how to hibernate Windows 10.
Keep private details off the lock screen
- To hide message previews, go to Settings > System > Notifications & actions and clear Show notifications on the lock screen.
- To hide app status, such as calendar or mail, go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen and set the detailed and quick status apps to None.
If locking doesn’t protect your PC
Locking only helps if your account has a password or PIN. If you get straight back in without one, add one in Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. See how to change your PIN in Windows 10.
If Windows + L does nothing, a work or school policy may block locking, or the Windows key may be turned off on a gaming keyboard.
Frequently asked questions
Does locking my PC stop downloads?
No. Downloads, music, and other apps keep running while it’s locked.
How do I change the picture on the lock screen?
See how to change the lock screen in Windows 10.
How do I unlock my PC?
Press any key or click, then enter your PIN or password, or use Windows Hello.
Can someone else use the PC while it’s locked?
Yes, if they have their own account. They select Switch user on the lock screen and sign in. Your apps stay open in your session, and they can’t see them.
Does locking turn off the screen?
Not right away. The screen turns off after the time set in Settings > System > Power & sleep. Press any key to wake it.
To control when your screen turns off, see how to change power settings in Windows 10. Microsoft’s guide is Account protection in the Windows Security app. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Related: how to change your profile picture in Windows 10.
Related: How to Disable Lock Screen in Windows 10.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.