How to Change Windows 11 Lock Screen Timeout

Keeping your computer secure is crucial, especially if you're working in a shared space or handling sensitive data. With Windows 11, you no longer need to manually lock your PC each time you step away. Instead, you can set an automatic lock screen timeout that suits your needs. Let's see how you can customize this feature to enhance both your device's security and energy efficiency.

Adjusting Lock Screen Timeout via Settings

Adjusting the lock screen timeout in Windows 11 is a breeze through the Settings app. You can even tailor different timeout settings for when your device is on battery power versus when it's plugged in, helping you save power and maintain security.

1. Open the Settings App. You can find it in the Start Menu or by searching for it.
2. Navigate to 'System'. In the Settings app, click on the ‘System’ tab.
3. Select 'Power & battery'. Within the System settings, locate and click on the ‘Power & battery’ option.
4. Adjust Screen & Sleep Settings. Under the ‘Power’ section, find and expand the ‘Screen & sleep’ settings.
5. Set Timeout Duration. Here, you can set different durations for 'On battery power, turn off my screen after' and 'When plugged in, turn off my screen after' according to your preference.

Setting a Custom Lock Screen Timeout via Control Panel

For those who need more flexibility than the predefined options offer, setting a custom lock screen timeout through the Control Panel is your go-to method. This allows you to specify exactly how many minutes your screen should stay active before locking, and you can set different durations for different power plans.

1. Open Registry Editor. Search for 'Registry Editor' in the Start Menu and open it.
2. Navigate to a Specific Registry Path. Follow this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power\PowerSettings\7516b95f-f776-4464-8c53-06167f40cc99\8ec4b3a5-6868-48c2-be75-4f3044be88a7.
3. Modify the 'Attributes' File. Double-click on the ‘Attributes’ file and set its value to 2.
4. Access the Control Panel. Search for 'Control Panel' in the Start Menu and open it.
5. Go to 'Power Options'. In the Control Panel, click on ‘Power Options’.
6. Change Plan Settings. Click on ‘Change plan settings’ for your chosen power plan.
7. Open Advanced Power Settings. Select ‘Change advanced power settings’.
8. Adjust the ‘Console lock display off timeout’. Under ‘Display’, find and expand the ‘Console lock display off timeout’ option. Set your desired duration (in minutes) for both ‘On battery’ and ‘Plugged in’ states.
9. Apply and Save. Click ‘Apply’ to save your changes.

And there you have it! You've now successfully customized your Windows 11 lock screen timeout according to your preferences and needs.