Restarting or shutting down your computer properly can help prevent data loss and maintain system performance. Follow these steps to perform a safe restart or shut down:
Save all open files:
Ensure all documents, spreadsheets, or projects are saved before proceeding.
Close unnecessary applications:
Close any programs you are not actively using to avoid losing unsaved data.
Windows:
Click the Start Menu (Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
Select the Power icon.
Click Restart.
Wait for the system to reboot:
Allow the computer to fully restart before logging in again.
Windows:
Click the Start Menu (Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
Select the Power icon.
Click Shut Down.
Ensure the computer powers off completely:
Wait for the screen and power indicator lights to turn off before disconnecting power or peripherals.
When to use the power button:
Only press and hold the power button if the computer is unresponsive or frozen.
This should be a last resort as it can cause data loss or system corruption.