When you share your Windows 11 computer with other users , you may need to disconnect them from their session for various reasons: maintenance, security, resource optimization , etc.
This comprehensive guide shows you, step by step, how to log out other Windows 11 users using different methods , each offering their own advantages and disadvantages.
Disconnect from other users using Task Manager
Task Manager is a tool built into Windows 11 that provides an overview of system processes and performance. It also allows you to disconnect other users in a simple and intuitive way.
Steps to follow :
- Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys together to open the Task Manager.
- Click the Users .
- Select the user you want to log out.
- Click the Disconnect at the bottom right of the window.
- Confirm your choice by clicking Disconnect in the pop-up window that appears.
Benefits :
- Simple and intuitive method.
- Quick access via keyboard shortcut.
- User-friendly graphical interface.
Disadvantages :
- Requires administrator rights to log out other users.
- Does not allow users to be disconnected remotely.
Log out of other users using Command Prompt
For more experienced users, Command Prompt offers a powerful alternative to log out other users. logoff command to log off a specified user.
Steps to follow :
- Open Command Prompt in administrator mode.
- Type the following command:
logoff<nom_utilisateur>
Replace by the username of the person you want to disconnect.
- Press the Enter to execute the command.
Benefits :
- Powerful and flexible method.
- Allows you to disconnect users remotely.
- Does not require a GUI.
Disadvantages :
- Command syntax to learn.
- Less intuitive for novice users.
Log out of other users using Process Explorer
Process Explorer is an advanced tool developed by Microsoft that provides a detailed view of the processes running on your system. It allows disconnecting users by killing their session processes.
Steps to follow :
- Download and install Process Explorer from the Microsoft website .
- Launch Process Explorer and find the winlogon.exe associated with the user you want to log out.
- Right-click the winlogon.exe and select End Process from the context menu.
- Confirm your choice by clicking End Process in the pop-up window that appears.
Benefits :
- Provides a detailed view of processes and sessions.
- Allows you to disconnect users who are no longer responding.
Disadvantages :
- Advanced tool that can be intimidating for novice users.
- Requires understanding of system processes.
Ask other users before disconnecting them
Before disconnecting another user, it is always courteous and respectful to ask them first. This helps avoid losing unsaved data or disrupting your work.
Advice :
- Send a message to the user via instant messaging or email.
- Make a voice announcement if you share the same physical space.
- Explain the reason for the disconnection and offer an alternative if possible.
Conclusion
Disconnecting other users in Windows 11 is a simple and common operation. However, if you are looking for a more convenient and permanent solution to access your session without entering a password, unlocking Windows without a password is an interesting alternative.
