Copyright © 1997-2008 Elizabeth Boston, The Computer Lady

Dear Computer Lady,

 

I love your newsletter.  You have answered many questions I have had.

Now I have another one.  

 

When I am through using my computer to send e-mail, check out websites, or whatever, I just click the "Start" button at the bottom of the screen and shut it down.  

A friend closes each screen, disconnects from the internet, and then goes to "Start" to shut down.  

 

Neither of us knows which is the way this is supposed to be done!

 

Which is the correct method...or does it matter?

Thank you,

 

Jan

Dear Jan,

 

When you shut down your computer, the first thing Windows will do is

close the running programs as it prepares to close.

 

Most people close any open windows before shutting down their computer,

and I think this is the best way. If any of the programs are having

problems, they might interfere with Windows shutting down. Also it will

take longer to shut down if you leave programs running.

 

I always try to close all open windows before I shut down my computer.

 

Elizabeth