The Power User Tasks Menu, also called the power user menu, provides quick access to essential Windows features. It was first introduced as part of Windows 8. In Windows 10, it includes updated options and features.
Why should I use the Power User Tasks Menu?
There are several features on this menu which can be difficult to find using the conventional Start menu. Microsoft has stated that this design choice may prevent an inexperienced user from stumbling upon the menu by accident. For example, it reduces the chance that a user will unintentionally delete their hard disk partition (in Disk Management) or disable their System Protection (under System).
- Why should I use the Power User Tasks Menu?
- How to open the Power User Tasks Menu.
- Power User Tasks Menu Options.
- How to use the Power User Menu hotkeys.
How to open the Power User Tasks Menu
To open the menu, move your mouse cursor to the bottom-left corner of the screen (the Start menu icon) and right-click. You can also open the menu by typing Windows key+X (holding down the Windows key and pressing X on the keyboard).
Some features accessible from the Power User Tasks Menu can cause system instability or loss of data if used incorrectly. Before making changes to your system configuration, back up all your important data. Always make sure you know exactly what you’re doing before making changes to your system.
After pressing Windows key+X, the Power User Tasks Menu appears at the bottom left of your screen. Below is a close-up of the entire contents of the menu.
Some options have changed after the Creators Update.
Let’s look at each menu option and describe what it does.
Power User Tasks Menu Options
How to use the Power User Menu hotkeys
When you open the power user menu by pressing Win+X on the keyboard, execute any of the options by pressing the underlined letter in the option name. For instance: Win+X, C opens a command prompt, and Win+X, U, S puts your computer to sleep.
Operating system terms, Power user, Windows 8
