Technology

Configuring Power Options in Windows

Last modified 9/20/2024

Windows Power Options allows you to configure your computer’s power settings, such as when to go to sleep or hibernate after so many minutes of inactivity. 

Before You Begin

Determining the best power options for your computer depends upon your individual needs and preferences.

The default power plan fits most people’s needs, but there are instances when you may want to change your power options to fit your particular situation.

For example, if you plan to regularly access your computer through remote desktop, you may want to set your computer not to go to sleep or hibernate during periods of inactivity, as your computer will be inaccessible through Remote Desktop when it is in a sleep or hibernation state.

Configure Power Options in Windows

Note:

The following instructions are for Windows 10, which is the latest and most recently supported operating system for Windows.

To change your power options in Windows, use the following steps:

  1. Press the Windows Key on your keyboard or click the magnifying glass on the bottom left corner of the screen. In the Search Windows field, type Control Panel. Then, click Control Panel when it comes up as a result.

  2. Click Hardware and Sound.

  3. After clicking Hardware and Sound, a list of hardware and sound options are displayed. Select Power Options.

  4. The Choose or customize a power plan page will be displayed. Click Change plan settings. Choose from multiple power options for your computer. Pick the one option that suits your power needs for your computer.

    • If you are wanting to adjust when the display turns off, use the dropdown menus next to Turn off the display to choose when the computer's display will turn off while using the computer's battery or plugged in.
    • If you are wanting to adjust when the computer or monitor falls asleep, use the dropdown menus next to Put the computer to sleep to choose when the computer will go to sleep while using the computer's battery or plugged in.

    • Click the Change advanced power settings link to open the Power Options window. Use the settings in this window to customize your power plan.

    • Click the Restore default settings for this plan link to restore the power settings back to the default setting.

How to Get Help

Technical assistance is available through the Illinois State University Technology Support Center at: