---
title: How do I lock my screen when I leave my desk
description: Locking your screen prevents any unauthorised access when you are away from your desk.
---

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# How do I lock my screen when I leave my desk

## Locking your screen prevents any unauthorised access when you are away from your desk.

**Note:** Your screen will automatically lock after 10 minutes but it is recommended to lock your screen manually whenever you are away from your desk, especially if you are in a public area.

### Method 1: Lock your screen with your keyboard

- On the keyboard, press the Windows key ![windows-icon-32-png](https://help.stalbansdiocese.org/hs-fs/hubfs/windows-icon-32-png.png?width=32&height=32&name=windows-icon-32-png.png) and the letter **L** (for lock) together.  
  ![](https://help.stalbansdiocese.org/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-May-15-2024-01-54-31-0417-PM.png?width=600&height=267&name=image-png-May-15-2024-01-54-31-0417-PM.png)

### Method 2: Lock your screen with the start menu

1. On your screen select the Windows start button ![windows-icon-32-png](https://help.stalbansdiocese.org/hs-fs/hubfs/windows-icon-32-png.png?width=32&height=32&name=windows-icon-32-png.png) in the taskbar
2. Select your picture, initials or name
3. Select **Lock**
   
   **![](https://help.stalbansdiocese.org/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-May-15-2024-01-50-31-9792-PM.png?width=218&height=248&name=image-png-May-15-2024-01-50-31-9792-PM.png)**

### **Method 3: Lock your screen with CTRL+ALT+DEL**

1. On the keyboard press the keys CTRL ALT and DEL
   
   ![](https://help.stalbansdiocese.org/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-May-15-2024-01-55-14-2581-PM.png?width=600&height=267&name=image-png-May-15-2024-01-55-14-2581-PM.png)
2. Select **Lock**
   
   **![](https://help.stalbansdiocese.org/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-May-15-2024-01-56-20-7989-PM.png?width=249&height=338&name=image-png-May-15-2024-01-56-20-7989-PM.png)**

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