In Ubuntu (and most GNOME-based Linux distributions), pressing the Super (Windows) Key + L instantly locks your screen, requiring you to enter your password to regain access to your desktop. This is a vital security feature for office environments.
However, the “L” key is located near the middle-right of the keyboard. If you are a heavy user of keyboard shortcuts, you might accidentally brush the Super key while reaching for the “L” key to type, instantly locking yourself out of your machine mid-sentence. If you are using a home desktop computer that no one else has access to, you may want to disable this shortcut entirely to prevent accidental lockouts.
How to Disable the Super + L Shortcut in Ubuntu
You can unbind the lock screen shortcut directly from the system settings.
- Click the network/battery icon cluster in the top-right corner of the Ubuntu top bar and select Settings (the gear icon).
- In the left-hand navigation sidebar, scroll down and click on Keyboard.
- In the main window on the right, look for the “Keyboard Shortcuts” section and click the View and Customize Shortcuts button.
- A new window will appear. Click on the System category.
- Find the entry labelled Lock screen (it should show “Super+L” next to it).
- Click on the “Lock screen” entry. A pop-up dialog will appear asking you to enter a new shortcut.
- Instead of pressing new keys, press the Backspace key on your keyboard. This will clear the shortcut, changing its status to “Disabled.”
- Click the Set button to confirm.
The shortcut is now disabled. Pressing Super + L will do absolutely nothing, and you will never accidentally lock your Ubuntu desktop while typing again.