Abstract

First introduced in 1994 as only the second piece of hardware produced by Microsoft, a new keyboard that came with Windows 95 was where the Windows key first debuted. Now, the Windows key (also known as the “Win Key”) is an extremely useful tool for the user who is aware of its capabilities.

We wanted to briefly go over some of the shortcut combinations that make use of the Win Key so you can more effectively use your computer to the fullest.

Useful Shortcuts Featuring the Win Key

Since there are so many options, it only makes sense to arrange them in list format:

Basic Functions

  • Win Key – Pressing the Windows Key alone allows you to open and close the Start Menu
  • Win Key + Up – Maximize window
  • Win Key + Down – Minimize window
  • Win Key + Left – Orient window to left side of screen
  • Win Key + Right – Orient window to right side of screen
  • Win Key + Home – Minimize all but active window
  • Win Key + Shift + Left/Right – Move an open window/application from one monitor to another
  • Win Key + M – This will minimize all windows
    • WinKey + Shift + M – This will restore all minimized windows
  • Win Key + L – Lock your computer (this also allows you to switch users)

Taskbar Functions

  • WinKey + T – Cycle through the programs currently in your Taskbar
  • WinKey + Number – Start pinned Taskbar program that corresponds to the number
  • Shift + WinKey + Number – Opens a new instance of the corresponding Taskbar program

Desktop Functions

  • Win Key + Ctrl + D – Start a new virtual desktop
  • Win Key + Ctrl + Left/Right – Cycle through your available desktops
  • Win Key + Ctrl + F4 – Close the current desktop

This is a pretty condensed list of Win Key shortcuts, so don’t be afraid to seek out others if you’re looking for a specific function. One great resource? The team here at NetMGM. Give us a call for assistance with any of your IT questions, or to discuss some of the IT solutions that we offer businesses. Call 888-748-2525 today.

Tags- Computer, Quick Tips, Tip of the Week, Windows

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tip of the Week: Doing More With the Windows Key

Rafiq Masri

With over 25 years of experience in Information Technology, Rafiq is one of the most accomplished, versatile and certified engineer in the field. He has spent the past 2 ½ decades administering and supporting a wide range of clients and has helped position Network Management, Inc. as a leader in the IT Managed Services space.

Rafiq has built a reputation for designing, building and supporting top notch IT infrastructures to match the business objectives and goals of his clients.

Embracing the core values of integrity, innovation, and reliability, Rafiq has a very loyal client base with some customer relationships dating back 20+ years.

Rafiq holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan and has completed graduate programs in Software Engineering and Business at Harvard and George Mason University. Rafiq is a former founder and CEO of Automation, Inc. in Ann Arbor, Michigan as well as a valued speaker on entrepreneurship and technology at industry events such as ExpoTech and others.