Want a quick way to lock your screen? You can create a desktop shortcut. Here’s how.
The most common and simplest way to lock your screen and system is using the “Windows key + L” keyboard shortcut. But, did you know that you can also create a dedicated desktop shortcut to lock your computer? Once created, simply double-clicking the shortcut will lock the screen instantly. This method is useful in a lot of situations such as when it is harder to use the keyboard shortcut, broken keys, for differentially-abled persons, elderly, etc.
Whatever your specific reason is, in this quick and straightforward tutorial, I will show you the steps to create a desktop shortcut to lock Windows. It works in both Windows 11 and Windows 11. Let’s get started.
Good to know: 5 methods to lock screen in Windows 11 & 10
Steps to Create Desktop Shortcut to Lock Windows
- Right-click on the desktop.
- Select “New” > “Shortcut“.
- Paste “Rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation” in the blank field.
- Click “Next“.
- Type “Lock Screen” and click “Finish“.
- With that, you’ve created the lock screen desktop shortcut.
- Double-click the shortcut to the lock screen.
Detailed Steps (With Screenshots)
First, minimize all windows (Windows key + D) to show the desktop. On the desktop, right-click and select “New” and then the “Shortcut” option. This action will open the shortcut wizard.
In the shortcut wizard, paste the following command in the blank field. Click the “Next” button to continue.
Rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation
Now, type a name of your choice, such as Lock Windows or Lock Screen, in the blank field. Click the “Finish” button.
That is all. You’ve successfully created the desktop shortcut to lock Windows PC. From now on, just double-click the shortcut we just created whenever you want to lock the system.
If you want, you can pin the lock screen shortcut to the taskbar by dragging and dropping it onto the taskbar.
I hope that helps. If you have any questions or need help, comment below. I’ll be happy to assist.
Good to know: How to auto-lock Windows after a timeout.
