Reference number: CH000356

How to restart or shut down the computer in DOS.

Issue:

How to restart or shut down the computer in DOS.

Cause:

It may be necessary for changes to become active that the computer be restarted.

Solutions:

Unlike Windows, to restart or shut down the computer in MS-DOS it does not require any steps or programs to be run. 

If you are currently in DOS and need to restart the computer, press the CTRL + ALT + DEL keys.

If you are currently in DOS and need to turn off the computer press the power button. Note: some newer computers may not allow the computer to be shut down unless the power button is held in for a few seconds.

Warning: If you are running a DOS or MS-DOS shell from Windows it is important that you do not follow the above instructions. Instead type exit to return to Windows and then restart or shut down Windows from Windows.