When you’re working on your computer, unexpected restarts can be a real pain. Sometimes, Windows 10 schedules a restart, and you might want to cancel it. To do this, you can use the Command Prompt to quickly halt any pending restarts. Simply open Command Prompt, type the command to cancel the restart, and you’ll be set.
Preventing an unwanted restart on Windows 10 is quite straightforward. By following these steps, you can ensure your computer won’t reboot unexpectedly while you’re in the middle of something important.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
First, click the Start button and type “cmd” in the search bar.
This will help you locate the Command Prompt application, which is essential for executing system commands. Make sure to run it as an administrator to have full access.
Step 2: Run Command Prompt as Administrator
After you locate “Command Prompt” in the search results, right-click on it and select “Run as administrator.”
Running Command Prompt with administrative privileges allows you to execute commands that affect the whole system, such as cancelling a scheduled restart.
Step 3: Type the Cancel Command
In the Command Prompt window, type shutdown /a and hit Enter.
The “/a” switch in this command stands for “abort,” which will cancel any scheduled shutdowns or restarts on your computer.
Step 4: Confirm Cancellation
Once you run the command, look for a confirmation message saying, “The scheduled shutdown has been canceled.”
This message indicates that your action was successful, and your computer will no longer restart at the previously scheduled time.
Step 5: Close Command Prompt
Finally, close the Command Prompt window to complete the process.
Closing the window ensures that no further commands are inadvertently entered, maintaining your computer’s stability.
After completing these steps, your computer will no longer be set to restart without your say-so. You can go back to whatever you were doing without the fear of interruption.
Tips for How to Cancel Restart on Windows 10
- Check your settings in Windows Update to see if your system is configured to restart automatically after updates.
- Keeping your system updated can reduce the number of spontaneous restarts.
- If you frequently face this issue, consider adjusting your active hours in the Windows Update settings.
- Regularly save your work to avoid losing data due to unexpected restarts.
- Familiarize yourself with Command Prompt commands for better control over your system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cancel a restart after the countdown begins?
Yes, as long as you can access the Command Prompt in time and type shutdown /a, you can stop the countdown.
Does canceling a restart affect system updates?
Cancelling a restart doesn’t stop updates; it merely delays the system reboot needed to complete the update process.
Is it safe to cancel a scheduled restart?
Generally, it is safe, but make sure to allow the restart soon if it’s for a critical update.
Can I set a custom restart time instead?
Yes, in the Windows Update settings, you can choose a more convenient time for your system to restart.
Will this method work on all versions of Windows?
This specific command (shutdown /a) works on Windows 10 and several older versions of Windows, like Windows 7 and 8.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt.
- Run Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type the Cancel Command.
- Confirm Cancellation.
- Close Command Prompt.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced world, every moment counts. Having your Windows 10 computer restart at a bad time can throw a wrench into your productivity. Luckily, knowing how to cancel a restart on Windows 10 gives you control over your workflow and helps prevent disruptions that can lead to data loss or work delays.
While it’s not a practice you want to rely on all the time, knowing how to use Command Prompt to halt these restarts can be a lifesaver in urgent situations. Just remember, keeping your system updated is key to ensuring smooth performance and security, so don’t delay those restarts for too long.
If you’re interested in gaining more control over your Windows experience, consider exploring other Command Prompt commands. Understanding these can empower you to address many common issues without the need for additional software or technical support. Stay in control and keep your work running smoothly!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.
How to Cancel Restart in Windows 10
Canceling a restart in Windows 10 is fairly simple. You can use the command line tool ‘shutdown’, access the Task Scheduler, or use the Run dialogue box. Each method involves a few quick steps. To stop a scheduled restart, you need to cancel the pending shutdown command or disable the related task.
This guide will show you how to cancel a restart in Windows 10 using various methods. Each step will outline the actions you need to take to ensure your computer doesn’t restart unexpectedly.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
Open the Command Prompt by pressing Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box, then type «cmd» and press Enter.
Command Prompt is a powerful tool that allows you to execute commands directly. It’s quick and efficient for canceling a scheduled restart.
Step 2: Enter Shutdown Command
In the Command Prompt, type «shutdown -a» and press Enter. This command will abort the scheduled shutdown.
The ‘shutdown -a’ command stands for ‘abort shutdown’. It’s the easiest way to cancel a restart that has been scheduled by Windows updates or other software.
Step 3: Verify Cancellation
A notification will appear stating that the shutdown has been canceled.
After running the command, Windows should notify you immediately, confirming that the scheduled restart or shutdown has been aborted.
Step 4: Use Task Scheduler (Optional)
Open Task Scheduler by typing «Task Scheduler» in the Start Menu search bar and hitting Enter.
Task Scheduler can be used if you prefer a more visual approach to manage scheduled tasks, including restarts.
Step 5: Disable Scheduled Task
In Task Scheduler, find and disable any tasks related to the shutdown or restart.
Navigate through the Task Scheduler Library and look for tasks that could be causing the restart. Right-click and select «Disable» to stop them.
What Happens After Completing the Action
After you’ve canceled the scheduled restart, your computer will continue to operate normally without shutting down at the scheduled time. You should see a notification confirming that the shutdown or restart has been canceled.
Tips for Cancelling Restart in Windows 10
- Always double-check for pending updates, as they might prompt another restart.
- Use ‘shutdown -a’ promptly after a restart notification to ensure cancellation.
- Check Task Scheduler regularly for any unwanted scheduled tasks.
- Keep a backup of important files before performing any system commands.
- Familiarize yourself with other useful Command Prompt commands for better system management.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a restart is scheduled?
A pop-up notification usually informs you of scheduled restarts. You can also check Windows Update settings.
Can I cancel a restart if it’s already in progress?
No, once the restart process begins, it cannot be canceled.
Is using Command Prompt safe?
Yes, using Command Prompt is safe as long as you enter commands correctly.
What if ‘shutdown -a’ doesn’t work?
Ensure you’re running Command Prompt as an administrator. If it still doesn’t work, check Task Scheduler for scheduled restarts.
Does canceling a restart affect system updates?
Canceling a restart does not cancel the update itself. The update will be applied the next time you restart your computer.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt.
- Enter «shutdown -a».
- Verify cancellation.
- Open Task Scheduler (optional).
- Disable scheduled task.
Conclusion
Canceling a restart in Windows 10 is an essential skill that can save you from unexpected interruptions, especially during critical tasks. Whether you opt for the simplicity of the Command Prompt or the visual interface of Task Scheduler, knowing how to manage your system’s restart schedule ensures smoother operation.
Understanding these steps and tips not only helps in immediate situations but also equips you with better control over your computer. If you often face scheduled restarts due to updates, consider adjusting your Windows Update settings to notify you before downloading or installing updates.
For more detailed guides and advanced tips on managing your Windows 10 system, stay tuned to our blog. Remember, technology should work for you, not against you. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.
Read his full bio here.
Все способы:
- Способ 1: Диалоговое окно «Выполнить»
- Способ 2: «Командная строка»
- Способ 3: Создание ярлыка отмены выключения
- Вопросы и ответы: 1
Способ 1: Диалоговое окно «Выполнить»
Если вы передумали завершать работу Windows 10, и если есть время, то отменить выключение можно, используя диалоговое окно «Выполнить». Для этого нажмите на клавиши «Win + R», затем в строке «Открыть» введите команду shutdown /a и нажмите на кнопку «ОК».
После этого начавшийся процесс выключения будет остановлен, но, скорее всего, некоторые службы прекратят свою работу. Принудительная приостановка отключения позволит сохранить данные, если вы не успели или забыли это делать.
Способ 2: «Командная строка»
Еще один не слишком быстрый, но действенный способ принудительно остановить выключение – это выполнение команды в консоли «Командная строка». По сути, он является альтернативой первому методу и удобен лишь если на момент завершения работы эта консоль уже была открыта:
- Запустите ее от имени администратора, используя строку системного поиска.
- В появившемся окне вставьте
shutdown /aи нажмите на клавишу «Enter».
Как и в предыдущем способе, после выполнения команды произойдет принудительная отмена завершения работы Windows 10.
Способ 3: Создание ярлыка отмены выключения
В качестве альтернативного метода можно использовать заранее созданный ярлык. Если позаботиться об этом заблаговременно, то остановить процесс выключения компьютера есть возможность буквально в два клика: достаточно просто запустить ярлык.
- Щелкните правой кнопкой мыши по свободному пространству в любом месте, логичнее всего на рабочем столе. В контекстном меню наведите курсор на пункт «Создать», затем выберите «Ярлык».
- В появившемся окне нужно указать расположение объекта, для этого введите в строке
shutdown.exe –aи кликните по кнопке «Далее». - Затем задайте имя своему ярлыку, например «Отмена выключения», и нажмите на «Готово».
После этого ярлык отмены завершения работы появится в выбранном месте. Для удобства вы можете его немного отредактировать.
Гораздо быстрее вызывать запуск ярлыка сочетанием клавиш, нежели кликом мышкой. Для этого кликните по ярлыку правой кнопкой мыши и перейдите в «Свойства».
Находясь на вкладке «Ярлык», поставьте курсор в строку «Быстрый вызов», затем нажмите на ту клавишу, которая будет использоваться в сочетании с «Ctrl + Alt», и сохраните настройку.
Чтобы у ярлыка была тематическая иконка, на той же вкладке «Ярлык» нажмите на кнопку «Сменить значок».
В новом окне останется подобрать подходящую иконку и подтвердить действие.
Если вы хотите деактивировать ранее настроенный таймер отключения в Windows 10, ознакомьтесь с другой нашей статьей.
Подробнее: Отключение таймера выключения Windows 10
Наша группа в TelegramПолезные советы и помощь
There are a few ways to cancel a restart in Windows 10. One way is to press and hold the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys on your keyboard, which will bring up the Task Manager. From here, you can click on the Shutdown options and select Cancel Restart. Another way is to go into the Start Menu > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and then under Pending Updates there should be an option to Cancel Restart.
How do I cancel a scheduled restart?
What to do if Windows restart is stuck?
If your Windows 10 device is stuck on restarting, there are several things you can try to fix the issue:
– Check for updates and install any that are available.
– Run the Windows Update troubleshooter.
– Perform a clean boot of your system.
– Temporarily disable any security software.
– Perform a System Restore or reset your PC.
Why is Windows 10 stuck restarting?
There could be a few reasons why Windows 10 is stuck restarting. One reason could be that there are pending updates that need to be installed. Another reason could be that there is a problem with the drivers or software on the computer. If you are experiencing this issue, you can try a few things to fix it.
First, try checking for updates and installing any that are available. To do this, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. If any are available, install them and then restart your computer.
If there are no updates available or installing updates doesn’t fix the issue, try uninstalling any recently installed programs or updating any outdated drivers. To do this, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features (or Device Manager) and uninstall or update as needed. After making these changes, restart your computer again.
If you’re still having trouble, contact Microsoft support or your computer’s manufacturer for help troubleshooting the issue.
How do I cancel a Windows Update restart?
If you are running Windows 10, you can cancel a scheduled restart by following these steps:
1. Click the Start button, then click the Settings icon.
2. In the Settings window, click Update & Security.
3. In the Update & Security window, click Windows Update on the left side.
4. On the right side of the screen, under “Restart Options,” click Change active hours.
5. In the “Change active hours” window, turn off the Set automatically option and enter a new start and end time for your active hours. Then click Save changes.
How do I stop my laptop restarting?
If your laptop is restarting on its own, there could be a few different reasons why. It could be a software issue, like a problem with an app or driver, or it could be a hardware issue, like a overheating battery or failing hard drive.
First, try to narrow down the cause by doing some troubleshooting. Check to see if the problem happens when you’re using specific apps or programs. If it only happens when you’re running certain apps, there may be an compatibility issue or conflict with that software. Try updating the app or reinstalling it to see if that fixes the problem.
If the problem isn’t related to any specific software, then it’s likely a hardware issue. Try testing the battery to see if it’s overheating and causing the computer to shut down. You can also check for errors in the Event Viewer to see if there are any messages that could indicate what’s happening.
If you can’t figure out what’s causing your laptop to restart on its own, you may need to take it to a repair shop or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
How do I stop Windows 11 from restarting?
There are a few ways to stop Windows 11 from restarting:
1. Go to the Start menu and search for “Update & Security.”
2. Click on “Change Active Hours.”
3. Turn off the “Restart this device automatically” toggle switch.
How long does Windows 10 take to restart?
Windows 10 usually takes around 1-2 minutes to restart. However, it can sometimes take longer if there are updates that need to be installed or if your computer is having trouble shutting down. If your computer is taking a long time to restart, you can try troubleshooting the issue by following the steps below:
1. Restart your computer and see if the problem persists. If it does, move on to step 2.
2. Check for updates and install any that are available. Windows 10 will sometimes need to restart after installing updates, so this may help solve the issue.
3. Try running a virus scan using your antivirus software. This could help identify and remove any viruses or malware that could be causing the issue.
4. If you’re still having trouble, you can contact Microsoft support for more help.
How long should a Windows 10 reset take?
A Windows 10 reset should take around an hour to complete.
What do I do if my Windows 10 update is stuck on restarting?
If your Windows 10 update is stuck on restarting, you may need to wait a few minutes for the process to complete. You can also try restarting your computer manually to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists, you may need to contact Microsoft support for further assistance.
How do I cancel Windows 10 update in progress?
If you want to cancel an update that is already in progress, you can do so by following these steps:
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Click on Windows Update in the left pane. In the right pane, click on Stop button under “Stop downloading updates” section (See image below).
4. A confirmation dialog box will appear asking if you are sure you want to stop the update process. Click Yes button to confirm and stop the update process.
What happens if I turn off my PC while it is updating?
If you turn off your PC while it is updating, it is possible that the update will not be installed correctly and your PC may become unstable or even stop working. It is therefore advisable to wait until the update has finished installing before turning off your PC.
Why won’t my PC stop restarting?
If your PC is restarting on its own, it could be due to a hardware or software issue. Try troubleshooting the problem by following these steps:
1. Check for loose cables. If any of the cables inside your PC case are loose, try tightening them.
2. Check for overheating components. If any of the components inside your PC are getting too hot, they could be causing the restarting issue. Try cleaning out any dust from inside the case and make sure all the fans are working properly.
3. Check for corrupt files. Sometimes a corrupt file can cause a PC to restart on its own. Try running a scan with your antivirus software to see if there are any infected files on your system.
4. Update your drivers and BIOS/UEFI firmware. Outdated drivers or BIOS/UEFI firmware can sometimes cause stability issues that lead to random restarting. Make sure you have the latest versions installed and see if that fixes the problem
Can I turn off my computer while its restarting?
No, you should not turn off your computer while it is restarting. Doing so could damage your computer or cause it to malfunction. If you need to restart your computer for any reason, it is best to wait until the restart is complete before turning it off.
Why do my laptop keep restarting?
There could be a few reasons why your laptop is restarting. It could be due to a software issue, such as a corrupt file or program. It could also be due to hardware issues, such as a failing hard drive or bad RAM. If you’re not sure what the problem is, you can try troubleshooting by restarting your computer in Safe Mode. This will disable any third-party programs and drivers that could be causing the issue. If your computer doesn’t restart in Safe Mode, it’s likely that there is a hardware problem. In this case, you should take your computer to a qualified technician for further diagnosis and repair.
{“@context”:”https://schema.org”,”@type”:”FAQPage”,”mainEntity”:[{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”What to do if Windows restart is stuck?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnIf your Windows 10 device is stuck on restarting, there are several things you can try to fix the issue:nn- Check for updates and install any that are available.n- Run the Windows Update troubleshooter.n- Perform a clean boot of your system.n- Temporarily disable any security software.n- Perform a System Restore or reset your PC.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”Why is Windows 10 stuck restarting?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnThere could be a few reasons why Windows 10 is stuck restarting. One reason could be that there are pending updates that need to be installed. Another reason could be that there is a problem with the drivers or software on the computer. If you are experiencing this issue, you can try a few things to fix it.nnFirst, try checking for updates and installing any that are available. To do this, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. If any are available, install them and then restart your computer.nnIf there are no updates available or installing updates doesn’t fix the issue, try uninstalling any recently installed programs or updating any outdated drivers. To do this, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features (or Device Manager) and uninstall or update as needed. After making these changes, restart your computer again.nnIf you’re still having trouble, contact Microsoft support or your computer’s manufacturer for help troubleshooting the issue.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”How do I cancel a Windows Update restart?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnIf you are running Windows 10, you can cancel a scheduled restart by following these steps:nn1. Click the Start button, then click the Settings icon.n2. In the Settings window, click Update & Security.n3. In the Update & Security window, click Windows Update on the left side.n4. On the right side of the screen, under “Restart Options,” click Change active hours.n5. In the “Change active hours” window, turn off the Set automatically option and enter a new start and end time for your active hours. Then click Save changes.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”How do I stop my laptop restarting?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnIf your laptop is restarting on its own, there could be a few different reasons why. It could be a software issue, like a problem with an app or driver, or it could be a hardware issue, like a overheating battery or failing hard drive.nnFirst, try to narrow down the cause by doing some troubleshooting. Check to see if the problem happens when you’re using specific apps or programs. If it only happens when you’re running certain apps, there may be an compatibility issue or conflict with that software. Try updating the app or reinstalling it to see if that fixes the problem.nnIf the problem isn’t related to any specific software, then it’s likely a hardware issue. Try testing the battery to see if it’s overheating and causing the computer to shut down. You can also check for errors in the Event Viewer to see if there are any messages that could indicate what’s happening.nnIf you can’t figure out what’s causing your laptop to restart on its own, you may need to take it to a repair shop or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”How do I stop Windows 11 from restarting?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnThere are a few ways to stop Windows 11 from restarting: n1. Go to the Start menu and search for “Update & Security.” n2. Click on “Change Active Hours.” n3. Turn off the “Restart this device automatically” toggle switch.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”How long does Windows 10 take to restart?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnWindows 10 usually takes around 1-2 minutes to restart. However, it can sometimes take longer if there are updates that need to be installed or if your computer is having trouble shutting down. If your computer is taking a long time to restart, you can try troubleshooting the issue by following the steps below:nn1. Restart your computer and see if the problem persists. If it does, move on to step 2.n2. Check for updates and install any that are available. Windows 10 will sometimes need to restart after installing updates, so this may help solve the issue.n3. Try running a virus scan using your antivirus software. This could help identify and remove any viruses or malware that could be causing the issue.n4. If you’re still having trouble, you can contact Microsoft support for more help.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”How long should a Windows 10 reset take?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnA Windows 10 reset should take around an hour to complete.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”What do I do if my Windows 10 update is stuck on restarting?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnIf your Windows 10 update is stuck on restarting, you may need to wait a few minutes for the process to complete. You can also try restarting your computer manually to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists, you may need to contact Microsoft support for further assistance.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”How do I cancel Windows 10 update in progress?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnIf you want to cancel an update that is already in progress, you can do so by following these steps:nn1. Open the Settings app.n2. Click on Update & Security.n3. Click on Windows Update in the left pane. In the right pane, click on Stop button under “Stop downloading updates” section (See image below).nnn4. A confirmation dialog box will appear asking if you are sure you want to stop the update process. Click Yes button to confirm and stop the update process.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”What happens if I turn off my PC while it is updating?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnIf you turn off your PC while it is updating, it is possible that the update will not be installed correctly and your PC may become unstable or even stop working. It is therefore advisable to wait until the update has finished installing before turning off your PC.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”Why won’t my PC stop restarting?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnIf your PC is restarting on its own, it could be due to a hardware or software issue. Try troubleshooting the problem by following these steps:nn1. Check for loose cables. If any of the cables inside your PC case are loose, try tightening them.nn2. Check for overheating components. If any of the components inside your PC are getting too hot, they could be causing the restarting issue. Try cleaning out any dust from inside the case and make sure all the fans are working properly.nn3. Check for corrupt files. Sometimes a corrupt file can cause a PC to restart on its own. Try running a scan with your antivirus software to see if there are any infected files on your system.nn4. Update your drivers and BIOS/UEFI firmware. Outdated drivers or BIOS/UEFI firmware can sometimes cause stability issues that lead to random restarting. Make sure you have the latest versions installed and see if that fixes the problem”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”Can I turn off my computer while its restarting?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnNo, you should not turn off your computer while it is restarting. Doing so could damage your computer or cause it to malfunction. If you need to restart your computer for any reason, it is best to wait until the restart is complete before turning it off.”}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:”Why do my laptop keep restarting?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:”nnThere could be a few reasons why your laptop is restarting. It could be due to a software issue, such as a corrupt file or program. It could also be due to hardware issues, such as a failing hard drive or bad RAM. If you’re not sure what the problem is, you can try troubleshooting by restarting your computer in Safe Mode. This will disable any third-party programs and drivers that could be causing the issue. If your computer doesn’t restart in Safe Mode, it’s likely that there is a hardware problem. In this case, you should take your computer to a qualified technician for further diagnosis and repair.”}}]}
Download Windows Speedup Tool to fix errors and make PC run faster
Sometimes, you may get to see a message – The system is shutting down. Please save all your work. Or you may get to see a message – Restart your computer in 10 minutes to finish installing important Windows Updates. Or maybe you clicked on the Shutdown or Restart button accidentally before saving your work, and you’d like to stop or abort the system shutdown and stop this operation. You can create this handy Windows desktop shortcut to help you in such situations.
You cannot cancel a restart or shutdown using the Shutdown Event Tracker Windows interface. It is only possible to perform this task from the command line. To cancel or abort the system shutdown or restart, open Command Prompt, type shutdown /a within the time-out period, and hit Enter. It would instead be easier to create a desktop or keyboard shortcut for it. The /a argument will abort a system shutdown and can only be used during the time-out period.
Create Abort System Shutdown shortcut
- Right-click on an empty area on your desktop.
- Select New>Shortcut.
- In the first box of the Create Shortcut Wizard, type: shutdown.exe -a.
- Now click Next and name the shortcut: Abort Shutdown.
- Click Finish.
- Finally, select an appropriate icon for it!
To give this Abort System Shutdown shortcut, a keyboard shortcut, right-click on it > Properties > Shortcut tab. In the Shortcut key box, you will see “None’ written. Click in this box, and press A key from your keyboard. The letters Ctrl + Alt + Del will automatically appear, and will now be your keyboard shortcut to abort shutdown or abort restart. Click Apply > OK.
This can be used only during the timeout period. Remember that you may have only a few seconds to stop the shutdown or restart process from taking effect, so you better have really fast fingers to be able to use this shortcut.
Alternatively, what you can do, is to create a separate shortcut for Shutdown first, as follows:
Right-click on an empty area on your desktop. Select New>Shortcut. In the first box of the Create Shortcut Wizard, type: Shutdown -s -t 30. Click Next. Name the shortcut: Shutdown, and click Finish. Then select an appropriate icon for it!
When you use this shortcut to shut down, you will first get a dialog box stating: Windows will shut down in less than a minute. In our case, it will shut down in 30 seconds.
This will give you 30 seconds to abort the system shutdown. Once the shutdown or restart is aborted, an icon will appear in your system tray.
Click on the icon to make it disappear!
Similarly, you can create a Restart shortcut with a 15 seconds delay using instead: Shutdown -r -t 30
Speaking of shutdown switches, you may want to see Shutdown options in Windows, and New CMD switches for shutdown.exe.
Anand Khanse is the Admin of TheWindowsClub.com, a 10-year Microsoft MVP (2006-16) & a Windows Insider MVP (2016-2022). Please read the entire post & the comments first, create a System Restore Point before making any changes to your system & be careful about any 3rd-party offers while installing freeware.