Modifying the function of your computer's power button can allow you to customize your computer to function in an optimal manner for your needs. Customization can help save you time, energy and minimize frustration. In a fast paced world where computers can be used to check quick references online, take notes and keep in contact with friends, business associates and relatives, the default "shut down" function for your computer's power button may not be practical. Since the power button is easy to use on most computers, it also make a nice customization feature to modify for frequent activities such as changing users or securing you computer. This guide provides a quick method of changing the action associated with pressing the power button on a computer running the Window 7 operating system.

Shut down open folders and turn off open programs to minimize distractions when you are changing the power button function settings. While this is not a required step, it can prevent unintentional changes or confusion due to a cluttered desktop.

Right click on the start menu button. The "Taskbar and Start Menu Properties" box will appear. On the "Start Tab", click on the drop-down box next to the phrase "Power button action". You can select "Switch user", "Log off", "Lock", "Restart", "Sleep" or "Shut Down". The default setting is "Shut Down". If you prefer your computer to save energy, but return quickly, opt for "Sleep". If you are concerned about security, consider "Log off" or "Lock". If you frequently need to change users, look at the "Switch user" option. Once you make your selection, press the "Apply" button and then the "OK" button to close the window.

Ensure your new power button setting is enabled. Press the power button on your computer and review the associated action. If the action matches your power button selection, you have successfully customized your power button in Windows 7.

Check out the how tos below to learn other tips for the Windows 7 Operating System:

1. How to Burn Disk Images in Windows 7
2. How to Change the Taskbar Clock Setting in Windows 7
3. How to Change What the Power Button Does in Windows 7
4. How to Combine Apps and Make the Taskbar Smaller in Windows 7
5. How to Create a Full Search in Windows 7
6. How to Create a Virtual Hard Disk in Windows 7
7. How to Display Empty Drives in Windows 7
8. How to Dock Window from Left to Right to Center in Windows 7
9. How to Encrypt a USB Drive in Windows 7
10. How to Magnify the Screen in Windows 7
11. How to Make Your Background a Slideshow in Windows 7
12. How to Minimize Hide Expand Browse Windows in Windows 7
13. How to Quickly Arrange Icons in Windows 7
14. How to Quickly Create a New Instance of a Program in Windows 7
15. How to Quickly Lock the Screen in Windows 7
16. How to Remove or Add Run Command in Start Menu in Windows 7
17. How to Run an Application as Administrator in Windows 7
18. How to Run An Application As Another User in Windows 7
19. How to Show or Hide the Preview Side Bar in Windows 7
20. How TO Stretch a Window Vertically in Windows 7
21. How To Turn On and Off Security Settings in Windows 7
22. How to Use the App Locker in Windows 7