How-To · Computers & Phones
How to lock your computer when you step away
The quick keyboard shortcuts to lock a Windows PC or Mac whenever you step away from your desk, and why an unlocked computer is a real security risk.
An unlocked computer gives anyone walking by your email, files and every app you’re signed in to. Locking it takes one second and doesn’t close anything. Everything is right where you left it when you sign back in.
The shortcuts
| Computer | Press | Then to unlock |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Windows key + L | Your PIN, fingerprint, face or password |
| Mac | Control + Command + Q | Your password or Touch ID |
Other ways on Windows: press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and choose Lock, or select Start, your profile picture, then Lock.
Other ways on a Mac: choose the Apple menu, then Lock Screen.
Make it a habit
- Lock it every time you stand up, even for a minute. Coffee runs and quick conversations are exactly when it happens.
- Close your laptop when you leave it in a car, meeting room or coffee shop.
- Don’t count on the automatic lock. Your computer will lock itself after a few minutes, but a lot can happen before then.
Why it matters
Most people picture hackers far away. But plenty of trouble starts close to home: a visitor, a cleaning crew, a curious coworker, or someone at the next table. An unlocked computer lets them send email as you, open client files, or approve something in your name, and it all looks like it came from you.
Matter of Technology clients: want computers to lock sooner on their own? Ask us and we’ll set it company-wide.