Getting+Unstuck

Control Alt Delete

On Windows and Ubuntu (a Linux flavor), the "three-fingered salute" combination of Control Alt Delete keys can get you out of a mess such as when a program has frozen up or when the computer does not seem to be working. The good thing about using this combination instead of just turning the computer off is that it does a shut down that keeps the computer from being messed up due to sudden shut down.

To use this combination, press the Control and Alt keys down ("Control" is often listed as "Ctrl" on the keyboard) together. These keys are on the bottom left of the keyboard, usually in the same row as the space bar. While you have those keys down, press the Delete button, which is on the top right-hand side. Press it once and see what happens. If something happens (in Windows you get a box that pops up that tells you what programs are running and a lot of information on the tabs inside the box, in Ubuntu you are offered the opportunity to shut the machine down) then go ahead and use the options you have. If nothing happens after you have waited for about thirty seconds do the same combination (hold down Control and Alt and then hit Delete). Try hitting Delete a couple of times with the Control and Alt keys held down to see if you get a response. Be sure to wait 30 seconds.

If this doesn't work, then you might be forced to do something more drastic like shut off the machine.