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How to Schedule Automatic Shutdown in Windows 10

Task Scheduler allows you to configure all the details for the shutdown

2 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Sometimes you might want to schedule certain tasks, especially if you don’t have enough time to do them manually.

If you want to learn more about scheduling onWindows 10, today we’re going to show you how to schedule shutdown onWindows 10.

If you can’t shut down your computer manually for some reason, you might want to schedule a shutdown. This is extremely useful if you leave your computer to do something during the night, or if you have to leave your computer for a few hours while you do some errands.

So, let’s see how to schedule a shutdown inWindows 10.

How can I schedule a shutdown in Windows 10?

How can I schedule a shutdown in Windows 10?

1. Use a command in the Run dialog, Command Prompt or PowerShell

To start the Run dialog just press Windows key + R. If you want to run Command Prompt orPowerShell, you can search it in the search bar.

Now, all that you have to do is type the following command into the Run dialog, Command Prompt, orPowerShelland press Enter:

shutdown –s –t 600

We have to mention that 600 represents the number of seconds, so in this example, your computer will turn off automatically after 10 minutes. You can experiment with different values and set the one you want.

If you’re havingtrouble accessingCommand Promptas an admin, then you better take a closer look at our dedicated guide.

There’s a similararticle about Powershell problemsand how to fix them.

2. Use dedicated software to help with the shutdown

Windows Shutdown Assistant issoftwarethat allows you to shut down your PC at the set time automatically. You can also set it to shut down in other situations such as system idle, excessive CPU usage, or low battery.

It can also support computer log-off, restart, and lock-up, all automatically. Thus, we recommend you download the free version of the program before deciding whether it’s worth your money or not.

Windows Shutdown Assistant

3. Use Task Scheduler

  1. Press theStart buttonon your taskbar or theWindows keyon your keyboard to open the search box.

  2. Typeschedulein the search box.

  3. Click on theTask Schedulerresult to open the app.

  4. WhenTask Scheduleropens, click onCreate Basic Task.

  5. Enter the name for your task, for example,Shutdown.

  6. Now chooseWhen do you want the task to start. In our case, we’ll chooseOne time.

  7. Now enter the time and date when the task will be executed.

  8. Next, chooseStart a program.

  9. Click theBrowsebutton, go toC:WindowsSystem32and select a file calledshutdown.

  10. Afterwards, clickOpen.

11.  Now just in theAdd argumentsfield add-s.

  1. ClickNext.

  2. Now you should see the task information. You can check it one last time, to see if all the settings are right.

  3. ClickFinishto schedule the automatic shutdown.

You can use the built-in app called Task Scheduler to schedule a shutdown in Windows 10. By configuring time and date settings, you can program the app to automatically shutdown the PC whenever you want.

That’s it, you now know how to schedule a shutdown inWindows 10. If you have any questions, just reach for the comments below.

More about the topics:task scheduler,Windows 10 Guides

Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.

When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.

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Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.