Faster restarts from a shortcut

Helpline Q&A Directory

Is there a command or shortcut that would enable me to reboot with a single click, rather than having to go to Windows Shutdown menu?

Yes there is. First, right-click the desktop and select New, Shortcut. In the Target field type:

C:\WINDOWS\Runonce.exe -q

This command restarts the computer after a 15-second delay. If Windows complains it can't find that file, click the Browse button and locate Runonce.exe manually. Some users may find it in the \Windows\System folder. Some more advanced possibilities are available using the command:

Rundll32.exe Shell32.dll,SHExit
WindowsEx n

Please note that this should all be on one line and the only spaces should be between exe and Shell, and Ex and n. The case of SHExitWindowsEx must be copied exactly. The value n is one of the following, or the sum of two or more:

0 = log off. Shuts down all running processes, then logs the user off.
1 = shutdown. Shuts down Windows to the point where it is safe to turn power off.
2 = reboot. Shuts down Windows and reboots the computer.
4 = avoid shutdown dialog box. When added to one of the other values, does not query running applications to see if it is safe to shut down. This avoids shutdown stalling because of an 'okay to close?' query message, but be warned that it may result in lost data.
8 = power off. Shuts down Windows and turns off the power. The computer must support the power off feature.

See also tips Faster shutdowns from the desktop and Faster shutdowns from the keyboard.