Alternatively called sleep mode, Standby a power-saving mode available on most computers, monitors, and other electronic hardware. When the device is idle for a set time, it may temporarily disable hardware features that consume power, such as its display, network hardware, or internal storage. If the user interacts with the device, normal operation is restored.

Standby mode helps conserve power when a computer or electronic device is not in use, without fully powering if off. Standby mode is usually indicated by a solid or flashing amber light on the body of the device. When the user interacts with the device and brings it out of Standby mode, the indicator light turns green.

How to put a computer in Standby in Windows

To use Standby mode in Microsoft Windows, follow these steps.

  • How to put a computer in Standby in Windows.
  • How to put a computer in Standby in macOS.
  • How to wake or get out of Standby mode.
  • What is the crescent moon symbol?
  • Should I use “standby” or “stand by” in my writing?
  • Related information.

Put the computer to sleep manually

  • Click Start or press the Windows key.
  • When the apps list appears, click in the bottom-left corner of the menu.
  • After you click the power button, select the sleep option.

Put the computer to sleep passively

To put a computer into Standby mode passively, you need to let it sit idle until the designated timer for sleep mode is up. You may change the time required before the computer sleeps in the power management settings.

  • How to adjust power, standby, and sleep settings.

How to put a computer in Standby in macOS

To use Standby mode in macOS, follow these steps.

For a laptop, there may be a Sleep button at the top of the keyboard. Also, with default settings, closing the laptop lid initiates Standby mode.

  • In the menu bar, click the Apple icon to open the Apple menu.
  • In the Apple menu, click Sleep.

You can also press Command+Eject, then select Sleep.

How to wake or get out of Standby mode

To resume, wake, or wake up a computer in Standby mode you can move the mouse, press a key on the keyboard, or press the power button once.

What is the crescent moon symbol?

The crescent moon symbol represents nighttime or, in other words, going to sleep. This symbol may be on a button on your computer case or as a computer keyboard key.

If a computer doesn’t come out of Standby mode using one of the methods mentioned above, you may reboot the computer by holding down the power button for 5-10 seconds.

  • What are the most common symbols used by computers?

Should I use “standby” or “stand by” in my writing?

When using the word as an adjective, adverb, or noun in your writing, use “standby” as one word. If you’re describing the Standby mode in a computer, it should always begin with a capital “S.” If you’re using the word as a verb, use “stand by.”

For example, the sentence, “If you stand by your computer, you can adjust its Standby or Power & Sleep settings”, uses both forms.

APM, Hardware terms, Idle time, Sleep

  • Is it better to leave the computer on or turn it off?
  • How to adjust power, standby, and sleep settings.
  • How to disable the power, sleep, or wake buttons in Windows.
  • Is it ok for a laptop to hibernate or go to Standby mode?
  • Receive blinking cursor when resuming from Standby mode.
  • Power management help and support.