To lock a Chromebook screen, press Launcher + L (the Launcher is the Search key on the left of the keyboard). On a touchscreen, tap the time in the bottom-right corner and then tap the lock icon. To unlock, type your account password or PIN, or use your fingerprint if you have set one up.
What You Need Before You Start
- Applies to: Chromebooks and ChromeOS tablets.
- ChromeOS version: Verified on ChromeOS 128 (June 2026). The lock shortcut is not version specific.
- Account: You unlock with your own account password, PIN, or fingerprint. If a school or work admin locked the device, contact them to unlock it.
How Do I Lock a Chromebook With the Keyboard?
The fastest way to lock the screen is the keyboard shortcut. It works on any Chromebook with a keyboard attached.
- Press Launcher + L at the same time. The Launcher (Search) key sits on the left where Caps Lock is on other keyboards.
- Your screen locks right away and shows the sign-in prompt.
How Do I Lock the Screen on a Touchscreen Chromebook?
On a ChromeOS tablet, such as a Lenovo Chromebook Duet, you can press the power button, but you can also lock it entirely from the screen.
- Tap the time in the bottom-right corner to open the quick settings panel.
- Tap the lock icon to lock the screen.
How Do I Unlock My Chromebook?
Unlocking uses the same credentials you use to sign in.
- Press any key or tap the screen to wake it.
- Type your account password, or enter your PIN if you set one up.
- If your Chromebook has a fingerprint sensor, touch it to unlock without typing.
How Do I Control Media From the Lock Screen?
ChromeOS lets you view and control whatever is playing, such as Spotify, YouTube Music, or a podcast, without unlocking. The card only appears while something is actively playing.
- Start playing audio or video from any app or tab.
- Lock the screen with Launcher + L.
- A media card appears with the title and play, pause, and skip controls.
- Tap the controls right on the lock screen. You do not need to enter your password first.
If you do not see the media card, make sure something is actually playing. The card disappears a few seconds after playback stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Launcher key on a Chromebook?
The Launcher key, also called the Search or Everything button, is on the left side of the keyboard where Caps Lock sits on other laptops. It opens search and is used in many shortcuts, including Launcher + L to lock the screen.
Why can’t I unlock my Chromebook?
If your password and PIN do not work, the device may be managed by a school or workplace. Contact the administrator, since only they can unlock a device they enrolled.
Does locking the screen close my apps or tabs?
No. Locking only hides your session behind the sign-in prompt. Your apps, tabs, and downloads keep running and are exactly where you left them after you unlock.
Wrapping Up
Lock your Chromebook with Launcher + L or by tapping the time and choosing the lock icon, and unlock it with your password, PIN, or fingerprint. While locked, you can still control any media that is playing right from the lock screen.
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