What is the Windows key and what is it for on my PC?

The Windows key it is small in size but multiple in its functions, it is available in the system to provide a wide range of utilities; which will facilitate the work in the different tasks to be performed.

This is known as a home button or key super for its multiple functions and indications it gives to the on-screen monitor when you use it.

What is it and where do I find the Windows key on the keyboard?

Many people in their homes have or have ever had a computer, of any brand other than Apple; since all the others work with the same operating system of the Microsoft giant. These computers have been a useful tool for almost all users and are advanced in terms of design, adaptability and operation.



Currently, Microsoft Windows brings a key with the company logo on their PCs ; which in principle identifies that it works with this system and secondly is that it allows you to enable programs and other platforms with which the computer is installed.

This key is a tool used on the computer to manage Microsoft Windows, which is located at the bottom of the keyboard between Ctrl and Alt;  This has a very broad utility and allows us to enter the menu directly; providing us with a series of open windows to introduce us to the innovation of experiences for everyday life, while also achieving effective learning

What is the Windows key and what is it for on my PC?

What are the functions of the Windows key?

Generally many people are not aware of all the functions that this small but very important key has, and if they knew it thoroughly they would save time and; at the same time, the task or activities that wish to perform would be facilitated from its use.



Without it, it would be impossible to acquire new knowledge through the computer, in the area one wants to enter; although we will also find the variant in the Windows key, when the let's give correct use ed this is where we classify it as: the Windows key and the pause;  the Windows key R that knowing how to use it appropriately we will obtain results in a quick access to the desired information in the system.

Previous keyboards computer originals with 101 or 102 keys, they did not have the Windows keys, but nevertheless it was at the launch of Windows 95 and when the change was made to the keyboards with 104 and 105 keys it was that this became the standard key.

With it we can see a drop-down menu that it presents to us if we reward it; There will be any factory installed programs, platforms, browsers, games and other applications or tools and those we add to this list for our functionality. Basically it is a key piece to having access to everything on the pc.

Most used shortcuts and combination of the Windows key and its function

This key is identified and we can use it in various combinations in the sum of two Windows keys and a menu key marks the transformation of the keyboard; both to get help and to copy, paste, cut, bold text.

Also to undo an action, underline a highlight or important text, delete a file, capture the screen, take a picture of the required window, close a web page, restart Windows or close, open the splash screen.


It is so amazing that it even allows you to switch between open applications, minimize the window or all and even restore them, also open the task manager and not hide system properties.


We will not find the same key organization in the same sense on keyboards. This little button has many functions, accompanied by ALT, SHIFT or CTRL, there it helps to introduce us immediately to the activities to be carried out without going into the menu, furthermore knowing its functions would allow us to save time in the activities to be carried out elaborate.

This key that favors us every day allows us to take shortcuts even every time the system is updated, despite having been introduced with Windows 95.

What is the Windows key and what is it for on my PC?

Shortcuts in Windows 10

Windows + M which minimizes the windows that open without being able to enlarge them again if pressed again, Windows + L leads to the screen lock and the password is used to unlock, Windows + Tab generates a total view of all virtual desktops, these among others also include these among others which includes Windows 8.

It should be noted that in Windows 10, in addition to the functions in the different combinations of this key, there are others that are not so easy to remember to use them; but with practice they are memorized and learned through experience as constant users.

It would start with some combinations and would add little by little coming at a time when you can use them easily and appropriately.


So the correct use of this simple key; but excellent in functions and executions, yes will result in effective and wonderful work being satisfied at the time of doing it.

Shortcuts in Windows 8

For the Windows 8 version, the key grants a number of characteristic shortcuts that differentiate it from other programs. Here you can find out what some of them are.

  • You can search for apps with Windows + Q
  • Windows + C to go to the toolbar of this version
  • Windows + I to go to general settings
  • Windows + O for the block menu
  • Windows + D to show or hide the taskbar
  • Windows + L is used to lock the PC
  • Windows + E to open the PC
  • Windows + H is for sharing
  • Windows + X to go to the tools menu
  • Windows + up arrow to maximize the window you are in
  • Windows + U to access the Ease of Access Center

What is the Windows key and what is it for on my PC?


Shortcuts in Windows 7

In case you have the version for Windows 7 from Microsoft; you need to know which shortcuts to apply from your PC keyboard simply by pressing the Windows key and any other. With us you will learn some of these functions that can be of great help to you.

To open the notification area of ​​the taskbar use (Windows + B); if you want to change the taskbar application (Windows + T); in order to open the file explorer (Windows + E); to minimize the idle benefits you can use (Windows + Start).

Now you can show or hide the desktop with (Windows + D); even if you want to open the popup that says 'run' (Windows + R) and; to search for files and folders press (Windows + F).

How can I disable the Windows key?

For many, being able to disable the Windows key is a challenge, since its procedure is a bit lengthy and requires a certain protocol. However, it is understood that you can disable the Windows key from any computer. The steps to follow are those:

  1. Open Windows startup and search for "registry editor"
  2. On this day double-click the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE folder
  3. Then open SYSTEM and then CurrentControlSet
  4. Once there, slide the slider and scroll down until you get the keyboard layout
  5. After clicking on edit or modify, in the drop-down menu select new and enter "binary value"
  6. Give this created value the name of 'Scancode Map' and click accept
  7. Then enter the following binary code '000000000000000000300000000005BE000005CE00000000' separated in pairs
  8. Then click Accept to confirm the change.
  9. Finally close all the tabs and programs, restart the PC and when you turn it on you will see that it will no longer be enabled

To reverse the action, you just have to repeat the process, the only thing you have to add is that in the created value you have to change them or delete all the values; You can also delete the folder and restart your computer again and it will be reactivated.

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