How does Windows define inactivity?

Question

Recently I have been setting up GPO's for machine inactivity limits, and was trying to understand the mechanics behind how Windows defines inactivity.

My assumption was that Windows classifies inactivity as a lack of user input (mouse movement, clicks, keystrokes). Is this true, or does it also consider other factors (like if an automated process is running, if a program is installing, etc)?

Answer 1

Hi @AxiomX_SA

Windows evaluates Idle session on different factors:

• User inactivity: lack of input (click, tap, press)
• Screen inactivity: Detection of ES_DISPLAY_REQUIRED flag, for example during Presentations
• Process inactivity: when only process with Priority State is below "Normal"
• Power source changed: AC/battery, battery-UPS

Hope this helps with your query,

--If the reply is helpful, please Upvote and Accept as answer--

Answer 2

If your query was related to power triggering screen lock or hibernate then these one may help.
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/design/device-experiences/powercfg-command-line-options
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/design/device-experiences/modern-standby-sleepstudy

--please don't forget to upvote and Accept as answer if the reply is helpful--

Answer 3

Inactivity, or idle state, is checked from user input
Windows uses APIs like GetLastInputInfo to detect user activity