Skip to content

Schedule a Windows Computer Restart with Task Scheduler

Schedule a Windows Computer Restart with Task Scheduler

Windows Task Scheduler can restart a computer at a controlled time. For servers and managed endpoints, make sure the reboot is approved and will not interrupt active users or dependent services.

Command

The Windows restart command is:

shutdown.exe /r /t 0

Create the task

  1. Open Task Scheduler as an administrator.
  2. Choose Create Task rather than Basic Task if you need full control.
  3. On General, use an account appropriate for the machine and select Run with highest privileges if required.
  4. Create a one-time or recurring trigger.
  5. Create an action to start shutdown.exe with arguments /r /t 0.
  6. Review Conditions and Settings so a laptop is not unexpectedly restarted when disconnected or on battery unless that is intended.

Verify before the maintenance window

Use the task History and Last Run Result fields. For a production server, coordinate application shutdown and clustering/HA procedures rather than using a blind restart task.