What is the Windows Security Button, and How to Use It?

The Windows security button is a hardware button on some Windows devices, such as tablets, mobiles, etc., that do not use external keyboards to lock the screen, log in, or access the device without using a keyboard. This button is located on the side edges or at the center of the device. When you click this button, it brings up the secure attention sequence (SAS) on the screen that shows different options such as lock, switch users, login, etc. In devices that do not have an attached keyboard, it triggers the Secure Attention Sequence (SAS), which is the same function as Ctrl + Alt + Delete on a desktop computer.

Written by R K Dutt
Published on October 3, 2025

What is the Purpose of the Windows Security Button?

The main purpose of the Windows Security Button is to boost your device security. It works like a fingerprint lock in a mobile device that delivers you a quick lock/unlock system. By pressing it, you can lock your device at any time and, at the same time, quickly return to the login window. It enhances your security by locking your device access and keeping it password protected. Enabling the Windows security button ensures the on‑screen keyboard appears properly for secure login.

How to Enable the Windows Security Button on Different Devices?

You can easily enable the Windows Security Button on Different Devices using some simple steps. In different devices and tablets, it is given both as a hardware button and a virtual button. In Windows settings, you can implement it by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Delete before signing in. So, here are some simple methods that allow you to enable this smart security button in your device:

In Tablets

In some tablets, the Windows security button is given on the edge of the device, but in some devices, you have to enable it by going into the settings. Here is how you do it:

Enabling/Disabling on Tablets

Open Control Panel: Press Windows Key + R, type control, and hit Enter.
Go to Tablet PC Settings: In the Control Panel, find and click Tablet PC Settings.
Click the “Buttons” tab: Here, you’ll see a list of hardware buttons that your tablet or convertible device supports!
Find Windows Security: This is the entry for that special hardware security button.
Under the Action column:
Choose “Log On” > Enable the button (it will bring up the sign‑in screen, like Ctrl + Alt + Delete).
Choose “Nothing” > Disables the button (it won’t do anything when pressed).
Click Apply and OK.

On Desktops & Laptops

Desktops and laptops usually do not have a dedicated button. You can use Ctrl + Alt + Del to access the SAS menu. Along with this, there are the following methods that help you enable secure attention sequence (SAS):

Method 1: Via User Accounts (netplwiz)

Press Windows + R>Type netplwiz>Press Enter.
Click the Advanced tab.
Under Secure sign‑in, check the box:
“Require users to press Ctrl + Alt + Delete”.

Click Apply>OK.

Method 2: Via Group Policy Editor (Windows Pro/Enterprise)

1. Press Windows + R >Type gpedit.msc >Press Enter.

2. Navigate to:

Computer Configuration >Windows Settings >Security Settings >Local Policies >Security Options

3. Find “Interactive logon: Do not require Ctrl + Alt + Delete”.

Double‑click it.
Set to: Disabled.

4. Click OK >Restart your PC.

What are the Benefits of Windows Security Button?

Windows Security Button is a smart button that enhances your device security and protects it from unauthorized access. Along with this it provides a wide range of functionalities and configurations on your device. Here are some key examples of them:

1. Enables Secure Login on Tablets

It provides a quick and safe way to access the login screen on tablets specially which do not use an external keyboard. Secure Attention Sequence (SAS) makes sure the user is talking to windows and not a fake sign-in screen.

2. Protects Against Fake Logins

When you enable these security features malware cannot capture any of your login details. It provides an extra protection to your login credentials from malicious programs and virus infections.

3. Enables On‑Screen Keyboard

If you are using a tablet and it does not have any external keyboard the windows security button automatically brings the keyboard on the screen when you need it.

4. Enables Quick Locking

It helps you lock your device quickly with a single press of a button. If you are not using your device then you can quickly lock it using the security button.

5. Enhances Convenience

It provides a convenient user experience if you don’t have a keyboard readily available.

Guard Your PC with Premium Antivirus

Keep your computer secure, smooth, and free of virus infections. Download 360 Antivirus Pro free.

What is the Windows Security Button, and How to Use It?

What is the Purpose of the Windows Security Button?

How to Enable the Windows Security Button on Different Devices?