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Yes. Windows 11 includes an Alarm feature in the Clock app. You can set an alarm and still receive its notification when Clock is closed or your PC is locked—but Microsoft says the device must be awake for notifications to appear, so do not rely on a Windows alarm to wake a sleeping computer.
Where to find the Windows 11 alarm
Open Start and choose Clock, or search for “Clock” from Start. In the app, select Alarm. The Clock app also includes a Timer section: an alarm is set for a particular time, while a timer counts down a duration.
Microsoft’s instructions show one preset alarm and four preset timers, with an option to add another timer. Microsoft Support’s Clock app instructions describe these controls.
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How to set an alarm
- Open Start > Clock, or search for Clock.
- Select Alarm.
- Use the add control to create an alarm, then set its time and other options shown in the app.
- When the alarm appears, choose Snooze to postpone it or Dismiss to stop it.
Microsoft’s illustration shows a 10-minute snooze choice; it does not establish that the interval is configurable or identical in every version. See Microsoft’s alarm and timer instructions.
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- 120DB DOOR AND WINDOW ALARM — Deters intruders instantly using a reliable magnetic sensor, with selectable siren or chime alerts when doors or windows open or close
- SIMPLE ALERT CONTROL — Side OFF/chime/alarm switch lets you match security needs to daily use, includes four alarms for broader indoor entry point coverage
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- BATTERY-OPERATED SECURITY ALARM — Runs on four included LR44 batteries and features a front LED low battery indicator for dependable everyday protection
- TRUSTED HOME MONITORING SOLUTION — Designed to add a layer of awareness and confidence in houses, apartments, dorm rooms, offices, RVs and campers; no apps or monthly fees required
Will the alarm work if Clock is closed, the PC is locked, or it is asleep?
| PC state | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Clock app closed | Microsoft says alarms and timers continue to work. |
| Device locked | Microsoft says alarms and timers continue to work. |
| Device asleep | Microsoft says notifications appear only while the device is awake. Do not count on the alarm notification appearing during sleep. |
Microsoft Support states: “Alarms and timers work even if the app is closed or your device is locked.” Its separate awake-device qualification is crucial: closing Clock or locking the screen is not the same as putting the computer to sleep. Read Microsoft’s guidance.
Make the alert easier to rely on
- Keep the computer awake: If it may sleep before the alarm time, review Start > Settings > System > Power & battery > Screen and sleep and adjust the sleep settings. Microsoft does not promise that an alarm will wake a sleeping PC.
- Check power and volume: Microsoft recommends keeping a laptop or tablet plugged in and setting the volume high enough to hear the alert. Audibility can still depend on the device and its audio setup.
- Check the time zone: If the alarm appears to be scheduled at the wrong local time, open Settings > Time & language > Date & time. You can switch automatic time-zone setting on or off or choose a time zone manually. Microsoft’s Clock guidance covers the alarm conditions; Microsoft’s date and time settings guidance explains time-zone controls.
Clock features that are separate from alarms
Windows Focus is a productivity session, not an alarm. You can start a Focus session from Clock, Settings, or the taskbar calendar and notification area. Its options include session duration, breaks, showing the timer in Clock, hiding taskbar badges or flashes, and enabling Do Not Disturb, which is on by default. Microsoft also documents optional Spotify audio and Microsoft To Do task-list integration for Focus sessions; these are not alarm sounds or requirements for an alarm. Microsoft’s Focus guidance describes these features.
Rank #2
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Windows version and feature scope
Microsoft’s alarm and timer instructions cover Windows 11 and Windows 10; the steps here refer to Windows 11. The support page does not display a publication date, and app controls can change with Windows updates. If a label or control differs on your PC, check the current Clock app and Microsoft’s support instructions.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 120DB DOOR AND WINDOW ALARM — Deters intruders instantly using a reliable magnetic sensor, with selectable siren or chime alerts when doors or windows open or close
- SIMPLE ALERT CONTROL — Side OFF/chime/alarm switch lets you match security needs to daily use, includes four alarms for broader indoor entry point coverage
- WIRELESS INDOOR INSTALLATION — Uses included double-sided tape for fast tool-free mounting on doors, windows, cabinets or drawers, no wiring required
- BATTERY-OPERATED SECURITY ALARM — Runs on four included LR44 batteries and features a front LED low battery indicator for dependable everyday protection
- TRUSTED HOME MONITORING SOLUTION — Designed to add a layer of awareness and confidence in houses, apartments, dorm rooms, offices, RVs and campers; no apps or monthly fees required
Rank #4
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Rank #3
- Digital alarm clock with a 0.7-inch green LED display for easily checking the time at a glance
- Built-in nightlight gently illuminates a dark room
- Repeating snooze function makes it possible to sleep a little longer
- AC powered with integrated power supply. Batteries may be used as a backup power source to ensure time and alarms are retained in memory for 8 hours (refer to User Manual for details)
- Measures 4.5 x 3.5 x 2.4 inches (LxWxH); weighs 0.4 pounds (6.6 oz) Note: Batteries are not included
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