Turning the Computer OFF
What Not to do
Do not turn your computer off by pulling the plug or pressing the power button. If you do, you may corrupt (destroy or damage) the files you have on your computer.
The proper way to turn your computer off is to first close all of the programs currently open on your computer screen. This means that you should not have any windows open on your desktop or on the taskbar. You can close your programs by clicking the “X” in the upper right hand corner of any window.
After you have closed all programs and are staring at a clean desktop, click on the “Start” Button to open the Start Menu. Slide the mouse arrow on top of the “Shut Down” option. Click the left mouse button once time to shut off your computer.
If your computer screen goes black, it has turned off and you are done. If your computer goes to a screen that says “It is now safe to turn off your computer,” you will need to press the power button on the computer one time. Your computer will turn off.
Following these steps will enable you to turn off your computer properly and safely whether you are working with a laptop computer or a desktop computer. If you have a desktop computer, you may need to turn off your monitor as well. You can safely turn off your monitor by pressing the power button located on the monitor.
Turning Off the Computer: Step by Step Instructions
- Close all programs.
- Click the START button.
- Click the SHUT DOWN option.
Common Question
- QUESTION: How often should I turn my computer off? Is it safe to leave my computer on all the time?
- ANSWER: Some people leave their computers on all of the time. Other people turn their computer off after every use. Neither of these habits will necessarily damage your computer. Avoiding extremes with computers is a safe rule to follow. Don’t leave your computer on all the time, don’t turn it on and off ten times a day, and avoid letting it sit powered on but unused for weeks on end. If you are going to use your computer periodically throughout the day, turn it on in the morning, leave it on all day, and then turn it off before you go to bed. If you only use your computer once a day, turn it off after use. Simply stated, avoid extremes.