Press Windows key + X to open the Windows 11 Quick Link menu. You can also right-click the Start button to open the same menu.
Open the menu with the keyboard or mouse
- Press and hold the Windows key, then press X.
- The Quick Link menu appears. Choose the destination you need.
For a mouse, right-click Start. Microsoft confirms that this opens the same menu as the Windows key + X shortcut (Microsoft’s Windows keyboard shortcuts).
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Microsoft’s official name is “Quick Link menu.” “System Tools menu” and “power-user menu” are informal names for it. The menu is a shortcut to Windows destinations, not a separate app.
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If you need a specific tool
You can open common utilities directly, without first opening the Quick Link menu. Use Start search, or press Windows key + R, type the command, and press Enter where shown.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
- Computer Management: Search for Computer Management or run
compmgmt.msc. Microsoft describes it as an MMC snap-in for managing system components and settings, including disks, services, devices, shared folders, and users (System configuration tools in Windows). - Disk Management: Search for Disk Management or run
diskmgmt.msc. You can also open Computer Management and select Storage > Disk Management. It manages disks and volumes, including drive letters and formatting (Disk Management in Windows). - Settings: Press Windows key + I, or right-click Start and select Settings (Exploring Windows Settings).
- Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, or right-click Start and select Task Manager (System configuration tools in Windows).
- Event Viewer: Search for Event Viewer, right-click Start to access it, or press Windows key + R, enter
eventvwr.msc, and press Enter (System configuration tools in Windows).
If Windows key + X does not work
Right-click Start to open the menu directly. Microsoft documents those two routes; it does not establish a universal alternative keyboard shortcut for keyboards without a Windows key.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to know before choosing a tool
Opening the menu itself changes nothing. Some utilities can make consequential system changes. In Disk Management, for example, formatting a volume destroys its data; back up anything you want to keep before formatting (Microsoft’s Disk Management guide).
Rank #2
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Menu items can differ by Windows build, edition, or configuration, so the shortcut should not be treated as a fixed, exhaustive inventory of tools.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesQuick Recap
Best Value
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
- Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
- Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
- Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
- Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
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