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Work Faster with WinKey Shortcuts

Many actions and commands that you perform with the mouse can also be performed using combinations of keys on your keyboard. And the keyboard is often faster if multiple mouse clicks are required.

Here are some shortcuts using the Windows Key - or WinKey - that work in Windows Vista and Windows XP. The WinKey is the key with the Windows logo shown on it and it is usually found between the Ctrl and Alt keys on your keyboard. These shortcuts are also known as Microsoft keyboard shortcuts.

Press this keyTo do this

WinKey

Open and close the Start menu

WinKey + D

Minimise all windows to the desktop

WinKey + E

Open My Computer in Windows Explorer

WinKey + L

Lock the computer

WinKey + F

Open the Search window to find files and folders

WinKey + M

Minimise all windows

WinKey + R

Open the Run dialog box

WinKey + X

Open Windows Mobility Centre (Windows Vista only)

WinKey + Shift + M

Maxmise all windows after minimising them

WinKey + Pause/Break

Open the System Properties dialog box

Note: It is not necessary to capitalise the letter you press in combination with the WinKey.

Learn more

Windows Vista Business

Windows XP Professional


!Did You Know …

There are many other keyboard shortcuts available to you in Windows XP and Windows Vista. To learn about them, click Start, click Help and Support, and in the search box type "keyboard shortcuts" to view information about other types of shortcuts.