Restart your computer, do not just shut it down
A restart clears problems that shutting down can leave behind.
On many Windows computers, Shut down does not fully turn the computer off. A feature called Fast startup saves part of the system to disk so the computer starts quicker next time. That means a problem can survive a shutdown and come back when you sign in. Restart always starts fresh.
How to restart
- Save your work and close your programs.
- Select the Start button, then the Power button.
- Choose Restart.
How often to restart
- At least once a week.
- Any time a program acts strangely, before you call us.
- When Windows asks you to after updates. Waiting for days leaves updates half finished.
Good to know
Closing a laptop lid or choosing Sleep does not count as a restart.