How to Schedule Automatic Shutdown on Windows 11
Scheduling an automatic shutdown on Windows 11 lets you set your PC to turn itself off at a specific time.
This Windows 11 feature helps manage your computer’s power. You can automate when your PC shuts down, like every night at 11:00 PM, which is great for saving energy and ensuring your computer doesn’t stay on all night.
It’s a simple way to build a consistent habit of turning off your computer. Just remember to save any work before the scheduled shutdown time, as it will close all open programs.
Schedule automatic shutdowns on Windows 11 using Task Scheduler. Open Task Scheduler, create a new task, set a daily trigger for your desired shutdown time, and configure the action to run shutdown.exe with the /s argument. Ensure you wake the computer if needed.
Method 1Using the Run Dialog (Quick Shutdown Timer)
Looking for a quick shutdown timer? The Run dialog is your best bet.
- Press ⊞ Win+R on your keyboard.
- Type
shutdown -s -t 3600and press Enter. (3600 represents seconds, so this will shut down in one hour). - A notification will appear telling you when the PC will turn off.
How to cancel a scheduled shutdown
If you change your mind, you can stop the timer instantly.
- Press ⊞ Win+R.
- Type
shutdown /aand press Enter. - The scheduled shutdown will be aborted immediately.
Method 2Using Task Scheduler for Daily Automation
You can set up Windows 11 for automatic shutdown every single day using the built-in Task Scheduler. This tool lets you tell your computer exactly when to turn itself off, so you won’t need to do anything.
First, click your Start menu and search for "Task Scheduler."
When the app opens, select "Task Scheduler Library" on the left. Then, on the right side of the window, click "Create Task."
A new window will appear. Follow these steps:
- On the General tab, type a name for your task.
- Select "Run whether the user is logged on or not."
- Check the box for "Run with highest privileges" (This step requires admin privileges).
- Set "Configure for" to "Windows 10 or Windows 11."
Next, click the Triggers tab and click the "New" button.
In the new window:
- Set the task to begin "On a schedule."
- Select "Daily."
- Pick your preferred time.
- Make sure the "Enabled" box at the bottom is checked.
- Click OK.
Now, click the Actions tab and click "New."
In the action window:
- Keep "Start a program" selected.
- In the "Program/script" box, type:
shutdown.exe - In the "Add arguments" box, type:
/s /t 60 /c "Computer will shutdown in 60 seconds" - Click OK.
Within Task Scheduler, the Conditions tab has specific settings for automatic shutdowns. Uncheck "Start the task only if the computer is on AC power." Check "Wake the computer to run this task." These changes ensure the scheduled shutdown happens even if the computer is unplugged, and they allow the computer to wake up if needed for the shutdown. Click OK to save the settings.
The activated shutdown task appears in the Task Scheduler library. This allows users to view and manage the scheduled automatic shutdown for their Windows 11 computer.
Summary
Setting up an automatic shutdown on Windows 11 is a smart way to save power and ensure your computer turns off when you want it to.
Can I restart instead of shutting down?
Yes. In the Task Scheduler Action settings, change the argument from /s to /r. This flag tells Windows to restart instead of shutting down completely. This is useful for clearing system memory or applying updates automatically.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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