Friday, March 13, 2009

[PC] How Do I Change the Windows Vista Power Button to Shut Down?

Just a quick and dirty update. I'll be adding a Mac tip later (within the next couple of days), so keep an eye out if you use Macs and would like to learn a fun tip! Now, onto the show:

The power button within the Start menu in Windows Vista puts it into sleep mode by default. This is great for people who leave their system plugged in all the time and basically use their laptop like a desktop. For the rest of us, this sucks. I have included below the directions to change this button to shut the system down (as expected for previous Windows' users). I usually do a bunch of images and screenshots, but today I'm doing just text. If you have questions, send them using the form or as a comment below. :) I'm always more than willing to help.

The directions I am including are assuming you know your way around Windows. If you do not (or are having a hard time following them), I'll be more than happy to post a more verbose version of this. :)

Start > Control Panel
From Category View ("Control Panel Home") > System And Maintenance
Power Options
Find the link that says "Change Power Settings" below the power option you have selected and click
Expand Power Buttons and Lid
Expand Start Menu Power Button
Change dropdown selection for both entries to Shutdown

That should do it for you. As I said, if you need more help feel free to comment or use the form!

Take care.