How to Enable or Disable Lock Computer in Windows 11

This tutorial shows you how to turn the lock computer feature on or off for everyone in Windows 11.

Why Lock Your Computer?

Locking your computer keeps it safe when you step away. It protects your work without closing everything you have open. When you lock the computer, you go to the lock screen. You can then sign back in and pick up where you left off. Other users can still sign in from the sign-in screen if needed.

What Happens When You Disable Lock?

If you turn off the lock feature, users must sign out or shut down instead. When lock is disabled, the Lock option disappears from:

• The Start menu
• Power menus
• Ctrl+Alt+Del screen
• Alt+F4 Shut Down Windows locations

Important

You must be signed in as an administrator to enable or disable lock computer.

How to Enable Lock Computer for All Users

This is the default setting.

reg add "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" /v DisableLockWorkstation /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

How to Disable Lock Computer for All Users

reg add "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" /v DisableLockWorkstation /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f

Summary

The lock feature in Windows 11 lets you protect your computer while keeping your work open. You can enable or disable this feature by changing a registry setting. Only administrators can make this change. When lock is disabled, users must sign out or shut down instead of locking the screen.