With computers, abort is a term that describes the termination of a process or command. An abort is usually implemented due to an error or an instance where a task can’t or shouldn’t be completed.

For example, if a program running on your computer stops responding, you can abort the process (force quit the program) and try opening it again.

Die, Esc, Exit, Force quit, Freeze, Process, Security terms

The keys Alt+F4 close the currently-selected program. For instance, if you pressed them now, your Internet browser closes. This keyboard shortcut can be helpful when programs freeze and need to be aborted.

At a command line or when running a script, pressing Ctrl+C can abort a command, program, or script stuck in a loop.

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  • Windows freezes or stops responding frequently.
  • What should I do when a computer freezes or locks up?