Ctrl-Alt-Delete

Force quit combination

Ctrl-Alt-Delete is a keyboard combination on Windows computers, pressed simultaneously to interrupt processes or access system functions.

Originally it forced a reboot; now it typically brings up a menu for locking the screen, switching users, or opening the task manager.

Figuratively, to Ctrl-Alt-Delete something is to reset or forcibly restart it: Sometimes you just need to Ctrl-Alt-Delete your whole morning routine.

reboot

restart

Commence anew

resetRestore to original state
power cycleRestart by cutting electricity
fresh startOpportunity to restart unburdened

initialize · shutdown · log off · sign out · cold boot · warm boot · recover · restore · clear · wipe

metaphor

reset

Restore to original state

start overBegin from the beginning
fresh startOpportunity to restart unburdened
interruptBreak in upon

override · abort · escape · bailout · do-over · clean slate · second chance · course correction · emergency exit

taskmanager

processes

Series of actions

end taskForcibly close a program
applicationsPractical uses or requests
performanceCarrying out a task

CPU usage · memory · disk · network · resource monitor · services · startup · system tray · monitoring · unresponsive

troubleshooting

freeze

Become solid from cold

crashSudden violent impact
unresponsiveFailing to react or reply
stuckUnable to move

hung · blue screen · error · malfunction · recovery · diagnose · fix · resolve · debug · system restore

shortcut

keyboard

Array of input keys

WindowsMicrosoft operating system
loginAuthentication act or screen
securityProtection from threat

combination · keystrokes · hotkey · unlock · screen · prompt · command · PC · desktop · workstation

Ctrl-Alt-Delete

restart

reset

processes

freeze

keyboard

Ctrl-Alt-Delete

Opposites

Categories

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