Prevent accidental Windows shutdowns with ShutdownGuard

Posted by Rachel Baker on January 7, 2009 | Post type: Gain

Windows users often have to restart after installing a new program, updating an existing program, or performing updates to Windows itself. When you are a massive multi-tasker like I am you usually don't want your system to reboot after you have performed one of these tasks because you are in the middle of doing something else. This is especially bothersome when I am away from my Vista desktop and Windows Automatic Update installed a patch that requires a reboot - if I don't respond to a prompt within ten minutes time the machine is rebooted for me.

Screenshot of Windows Update dialog

The simplest way I have found around this problem is to install ShutdownGuard, which is a free, lightweight program that sits in your taskbar and requires additional interaction from any user before the computer is shutdown, restarted, or logged off.

When installing ShutdownGuard make sure you check the box to "Put ShutdownGuard on autostart":

Screenshot of ShutdownGuard Setup dialog

Now if your Vista computer tries to shutdown you will see this screen:

Screenshot of Windows Vista desktop

In Windows XP a prompt balloon pops up and you will need to click the lock icon on your taskbar to "unlock" the machine:

Screenshot of Windows XP taskbar

About the author(s)

Rachel Baker is an IT Consultant with extensive Windows desktop and server experience and a newcomer to the OSX platform. She loves all things internet, computer hardware, networking, and gadget related. Rachel believes that technology should make your life simpler and not more complicated. She is located in Chicago, IL and is also the co-host of the PC/Mac Smackdown Podcast.

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