Quick Guide: How to Lock Windows 10 PC Easily

Locking your Windows 10 PC is essential to keep your data secure when you're away from your computer. Here are several methods to quickly and easily lock your PC.

How can I lock my Windows 10 PC?​

1. Using Windows + L Keyboard Shortcut​

1. Hold down the Windows key on your keyboard.
2. While holding the Windows key, press the L key.

This method instantly locks your PC, providing a quick and easy way to secure your computer with just a simple keyboard shortcut.

2. Using Ctrl + Alt + Del​

1. Press the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete keys simultaneously.
2. In the menu that appears, click on Lock.

This option gives you quick access to the lock function from a familiar menu, which can also be used to access other important system functions.

3. Using the Start Menu​

1. Press the Windows key to open the Start menu.
2. Click the user account icon and select Lock from the flyout menu.

Using the Start menu to lock your PC is convenient and doesn't require memorizing keyboard shortcuts.

4. Automatically Lock Using Screen Saver​

1. Open the Control Panel by typing "Control Panel" in the search bar and pressing Enter.
2. Go to Appearance and Personalization.
3. Click on Change screen saver.
4. Check the box for On resume, display logon screen.
5. Set the amount of idle time before the screen saver activates and then click OK.

This method sets your PC to lock automatically after a period of inactivity, ensuring your device locks itself even if you forget.

5. Configuring Dynamic Lock​

1. Pair your phone with your Windows device using Bluetooth.
2. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows key + I.
3. Go to Accounts, then Sign-in options.
4. Scroll down to Dynamic lock and check the box for Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you're away.

Dynamic Lock uses your phone's Bluetooth signal to detect when you're away and locks your PC automatically, adding an extra layer of security without manual intervention.

6. Creating a Lock Shortcut​

1. Right-click on your desktop and select New -> Shortcut.
2. In the location field, type tsdiscon and click Next.
3. Name the shortcut (e.g., "Lock Screen") and click Finish.

Creating a shortcut provides a one-click solution to lock your PC, which is especially useful if you prefer using a mouse over the keyboard.

7. Using the Command Prompt​

1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
3. Now, paste the following command and hit Enter to immediately lock the PC:Rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation

The Command Prompt is a useful command-line tool that performs complex tasks within seconds. It takes even shorter time for simpler ones.

The problem is that users must remember the command or keep it stored somewhere easily accessible. But this, too, can be eliminated by creating a desktop shortcut instead. This method is handy if you can't access a physical keyboard. You may use the virtual keyboard to lock your PC.

These methods ensure that you can quickly and easily lock your Windows 10 PC, keeping your data secure in various situations.