Windows Vista has introduced several new and innovative features. But it has also changed the familiar look and feel of certain desktop components. For example have you tried to shut down a Vista PC? In the classic Start Menu of Windows XP there were 2 dedicated buttons – Log Off & Shutdown. Then if you press Shutdown then you would have to confirm if you want to Shutdown, Hibernate or Standby. Vista has changed this to allow users to Standby PCs with one click from the start menu. But if you want to shut down the PC then you have to press the little arrow
Vista-power-button to get to the complete standby / hibernate / shutdown menu. I am going to show you how to the power button in the start menu to do anything you want with 1 click – Hibernate, Shutdown, Standby.

Video Procedure

So how do you configure the power button in the start menu to do your bidding? Watch the following video tutorial to configure the power button. If you do not have flash installed please proceed to text instructions below.



How To Reconfigure Windows Vista Startmenu Power Button – video powered by MetacafeProcedure
If you prefer video tutorial please press play on the video above.

  • Go to Windows Vista Startup logo
  • Click Control Panel
  • In Control Panel window click System and Maintenance
  • Click Power Options
  • Locate which Power Plan you are currently using and click on Change Plan Settings
  • Go to Advanced Power Settings text link
  • Scroll down to Power Button & Lid and expand Startmenu Power Button
  • Click to change the value to Shutdown when on external power and battery power.
  • Click Apply and OK to save settings.