How to Open Apps and Websites With Keyboard Shortcuts in Windows 11

This guide explains how to create custom keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11 to quickly open apps and websites. Follow the step-by-step instructions and troubleshoot common issues with ease.

Bertie Atkinson

Keyboard shortcuts are a powerful way to streamline your workflow and save time. In Windows 11, you can create custom keyboard shortcuts to open apps and websites quickly. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can set up shortcuts with ease.

Requirements

  • A Windows 11 PC
  • Administrator privileges (for some steps)
  • The app or website you want to create a shortcut for
  • Basic familiarity with Windows file management

Instructions

  1. Create a Desktop Shortcut for the App or WebsiteFor apps: Right-click on the desktop, select New, then Shortcut. Browse to the app’s executable file (usually in the Program Files folder) and click Next. Name the shortcut and click Finish.For websites: Open your browser, navigate to the website, and drag the URL from the address bar to your desktop. This will create a shortcut to the website.
  2. Assign a Keyboard Shortcut to the ShortcutRight-click the newly created shortcut and select Properties. In the Shortcut tab, locate the Shortcut key field. Click inside the field and press the key combination you want to use (e.g., Ctrl + Alt + W). Click Apply and then OK.
  3. Test the Keyboard ShortcutPress the assigned key combination to ensure the app or website opens as expected. If it doesn’t work, double-check the shortcut properties and ensure the key combination is unique and not already in use.

Troubleshooting

  • Shortcut doesn’t work: Ensure the shortcut points to the correct file or URL. Recreate the shortcut if necessary.
  • Key combination conflicts: Try a different key combination to avoid conflicts with existing shortcuts.
  • Permissions issue: If you’re unable to create shortcuts, ensure you have administrator privileges.

Keyboard shortcuts are a powerful way to streamline your workflow and save time. In Windows 11, you can create custom keyboard shortcuts to open apps and websites quickly. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can set up shortcuts with ease.

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