How to Restart Windows from CMD: The Complete Command List (Force, BIOS & Remote)

Sometimes, the trusty Start Menu just freezes, or you are managing a remote server where clicking a mouse isn't an option. In these moments, the Command Prompt (CMD) isn't just a nerdy alternative; it is the fastest and most reliable way to get your system back on track.

Whether you need to force a reboot because an app is stuck, boot directly into BIOS without mashing keys, or restart a machine in another room, the shutdown command is your best friend.

Below is the quick cheat sheet for those who just need the code and want to get out.

The Basic Restart Command

To restart your Windows computer using CMD, you first need to open the Command Prompt. While a standard user mode works for basic restarts, I highly recommend running it as Administrator to avoid any "Access Denied" errors, especially for advanced commands.

1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
2. Type the following command and hit Enter:

shutdown /r

By default, Windows gives you a grace period (about 30 seconds to 1 minute) to save your work before restarting. If you don't want to wait and want the system to reboot immediately, add the time parameter /t:

shutdown /r /t 0

Here, /r stands for reboot and /t 0 sets the timer to zero seconds.

Advanced Restart Options (Force & Timer)

The basic command is great, but real life is messy. Sometimes programs crash and refuse to close, or you need to give other users on a server a "heads up" before you pull the plug.

Force Restart (Closing Stuck Apps)

If you have ever stared at a "Getting Windows Ready" screen or had an application that just won't close, a standard restart might hang indefinitely. To bypass this, use the force switch /f.

shutdown /r /f /t 0

Warning: This command terminates all running applications without saving data. Use this only if your system is unresponsive.

Setting a Countdown Timer

If you are doing maintenance or just want to schedule a reboot for later, you can adjust the timer. For example, to restart in 60 seconds:

shutdown /r /t 60

You can even add a custom message to warn other users if you are on a network:

shutdown /r /t 60 /c "Updating system drivers, save your work!"

How to Restart into BIOS or Safe Mode

This is where CMD really shines. Modern PCs boot so fast that hitting F2 or Del to enter BIOS can be a challenge. Instead of fighting with timing, you can tell Windows to reboot directly into the firmware settings.

Restart to UEFI/BIOS Firmware

This command saves you from the "mash the key" game during boot-up. It restarts Windows and takes you straight to the BIOS menu:

shutdown /r /fw /t 0

Note: You must run CMD as Administrator for this to work.

Restart to Advanced Startup Options (Safe Mode)

If you are troubleshooting a driver issue or malware, you likely need to start your computer in safe mode. Instead of navigating through complex Settings menus, use this command:

shutdown /r /o

This reboots the system into the Advanced Startup menu, where you can select Safe Mode, System Restore, or Startup Repair.

Restarting a Remote Computer

For IT professionals or anyone managing a home media server, walking to the physical machine to hit the reset button is inefficient. You can restart a PC remotely if you are on the same network and have administrative privileges.

shutdown /m \\ComputerName /r /t 0

Replace \ComputerName with the actual network name or IP address of the target PC. If you need to manage multiple windows or servers efficiently, mastering these windows window management shortcuts can also speed up your workflow.

The Panic Button: How to Cancel a Restart

We have all been there. You typed shutdown /r /t 60, hit Enter, and then realized you forgot to save a crucial file.

Don't panic. You can abort the countdown instantly with:

shutdown /a

The /a stands for abort. You will see a notification in the system tray confirming that the scheduled shutdown has been cancelled.

CMD vs. PowerShell: Which One Should You Use?

While CMD is ubiquitous, PowerShell is the more modern and powerful tool for system administration. If you are writing scripts or need more control, the Restart-Computer cmdlet is often superior.

For a simple reboot in PowerShell:

Restart-Computer

To force a reboot (similar to /f in CMD):

Restart-Computer -Force

If you are looking to automate these tasks or create complex maintenance schedules, you should definitely learn how to run PowerShell scripts safely on your system.