Restarting Windows closes running programs, shuts down the current Windows session, and starts the operating system again. It is a simple troubleshooting step that can clear temporary problems and complete updates. Save your work before restarting because open programs will be closed.
How to Restart Windows from the Start Menu
- Save any files you are working on.
- Select Start.
- Select the Power button.
- Select Restart.
- Wait for Windows to shut down and start again.
Microsoft documents Start > Power > Restart as the standard restart method in both Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Restart from Ctrl + Alt + Delete
- Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete.
- Select the Power control on the screen.
- Select Restart.
This can be useful when the desktop or Start menu is behaving strangely but Windows still responds to the security screen.
Restart vs. Shut Down
Restart immediately starts Windows again after shutting down the current session. Shut down turns the PC off and leaves it off until you power it back on. When troubleshooting a Windows problem or completing an update, Restart is often the clearer choice because Windows performs a full restart cycle automatically.
What If Windows Is Completely Frozen?
Give the computer a moment in case it is busy with a demanding task. If possible, close a frozen app with Task Manager rather than forcing the entire PC off. Holding the physical power button should be a last resort because unsaved work can be lost and an interrupted disk operation can cause additional problems.
Summary
Save your work, select Start > Power > Restart, and wait for Windows to start again. If the Start menu is unavailable but Windows still responds, use Ctrl + Alt + Delete and the Power menu.