| When you finish working on your computer, you need to make sure to turn off, or shut down, your computer properly. This involves several steps: saving and closing all open files, closing all open windows, exiting all running programs, shutting down Windows itself, and, finally, turning off the computer. Shutting down your computer makes sure Windows and all its related programs are properly closed; this avoids potential problems starting and working with Windows in the future. If you turn off the computer by pushing the power switch while Windows or other programs are running, you could lose important data. Turn Off Your Computer -
| | Click the Start button, and then click Turn Off Computer. | -
| | Click the option you want (Shutdown options vary depending on Windows settings): | -
Turn Off . Exits Windows XP and prepares the computer to be turned off -
Restart . Exits Windows XP and restarts the computer -
Stand By . Switches the computer to low-power mode and maintains your session -
Hibernate . Saves your session, exits Windows XP, and then restores your session the next time you start Windows Shutdown Options | Option | When to use it | | Turn Off | When you finish working with Windows and you want to shut off your computer | | Restart | When you want to restart the computer and begin working with Windows again | | Hibernate | When you want to stop working with Windows for a while and safely turn off power; restores your session to start working again later; available when the Power Options (in the Control Panel) are turned on | | Stand By | When you want to stop working with Windows for a few moments and conserve power (ideal for a laptop or portable computer); available when a power scheme is selected in Power Options (in the Control Panel) | | |