What Is the Windows Key?
The Windows key has the four-square Windows logo on it. Press it on its own to open the Start menu, or hold it with another key for a shortcut.
Walking away from the computer? Windows + L locks it so nobody messes with your work!
Where is the Windows key?
The highlighted key is the Windows key on a typical Windows laptop keyboard. Keyboards vary a little by brand.
What the Windows key does
The Windows key sits in the bottom row between Ctrl (or Fn) and Alt. Tap it once to open Start, then just start typing to search for an app. Hold it with another key for handy shortcuts:
| Shortcut | What it does |
|---|---|
| Windows + D | Show the desktop (press again to go back) |
| Windows + E | Open File Explorer |
| Windows + L | Lock the computer when you walk away |
| Windows + Shift + S | Take a screenshot of part of the screen |
| Windows + . (period) | Open the emoji panel 😀 |
| Windows + V | Clipboard history (after you turn it on) |
| Windows + Tab | See all open windows |
Windows, Mac and Chromebook
Windows
Every Windows keyboard has at least one. Some full-size keyboards have a second one on the right side of the space bar.
Mac
Macs do not have a Windows key. The Command key sits in about the same place and does many of the same jobs. If you plug a Windows keyboard into a Mac, its Windows key works as Command.
Chromebook
Chromebooks use the Search or Launcher key instead (where Caps Lock usually is). On an external Windows keyboard, the Windows key works as Search.
Which finger presses it?
Use your left thumb or left pinky for the Windows key, and press the letter with your other fingers.
Fun fact
The Windows key first appeared on keyboards in 1994, just before Windows 95 came out. Before that, PC keyboards did not have it at all.
Keep learning
- Practice the reach in Lesson 4: Add A and ;.
- More keys: Ctrl key, Alt key, Command key, Print Screen.
- See every keyboard key explained.
- Names of all the symbols: Keyboard Characters and Meanings.
Quick drill: find the Windows key
Press the key on your keyboard, or click or tap it below, when Rocky asks. Wrong key? We will tell you what it was.
Windows key FAQ
What does the Windows key do by itself?
It opens the Start menu. Press it again to close Start.
How do I lock my computer fast?
Press Windows + L. You will need your password or PIN to get back in.
What is the Windows key on a Chromebook?
Chromebooks use the Search or Launcher key, which does a similar job.