Disclosure: we make SofaDeck, which is one of the options below. The built-in Windows methods come first and need no extra software. Facts about other products were checked on 11 October 2026 and can change.
Left the room and the PC is unlocked? You can lock Windows from your phone in two ways: automatically when you walk away, or on demand with a tap. The automatic way is built into Windows.
Lock automatically when you walk away: Dynamic lock (built in)
- Open Settings, Bluetooth & devices and pair your phone with the PC.
- Open Settings, Accounts, Sign-in options.
- Under Dynamic lock, tick 'Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you're away'.
- Walk away with your phone; Windows locks the PC shortly after the phone is out of Bluetooth range.
Dynamic lock uses the phone's Bluetooth signal, so it isn't instant: Windows waits until the phone has been out of range for a short time. It's a safety net, not a replacement for pressing Windows + L as you get up.
Lock it now from across the room
For "lock it now", something on the PC has to listen to the phone. With SofaDeck, tap a Lock PC button on your phone or say lock the PC
. Say screen off
to turn the display off without locking, which is handy at night. Sleep, restart and shut down are there too, and always ask you to confirm on the phone first.
Direct installer .exe · 3.7 MB Store version signed by Microsoft No account Local network only Signed updates SofaDeck installs on your Windows PC. Your phone is the remote — it works in the phone’s browser.One email from support@dixonappstudio.com. No list unless you tick the box. PrivacyOr on your PC, go to sofadeck.com/getMake your own lock shortcut
Windows can lock from a shortcut that runs rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation. Create a desktop shortcut with that as its target, and any launcher, macro pad or deck button can run it.
If the PC is lost or stolen
That's a different job. If Find my device is turned on for your Microsoft account, the devices page at account.microsoft.com/devices can locate the PC and offers a lock option for lost devices. Phone remotes only work on your home network.
More: shut down, restart or sleep your PC from your phone.
Frequently asked questions
How do I lock my PC automatically when I walk away?
Turn on Dynamic lock: Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → Dynamic lock, with your phone paired over Bluetooth. Windows locks the PC shortly after the phone goes out of range.
What's the shortcut to lock Windows?
Windows key + L locks the PC immediately. The command rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation does the same from a shortcut or script.
Can SofaDeck lock my PC from my phone?
Yes. Say 'lock the PC' or tap a Lock PC button on the deck. 'Screen off' turns the display off without locking.