Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP and later has support for the Microsoft Windows Keyboard, using the logo key on the keyboard.

= display/hide the Start menu
+ Pause = display the Systems Properties page
+ R = display the Run dialog box
+ M = minimize all windows
+ D = minimize all windows. Press again and desktop apps reappear.
+ Shift + M = undo minimize all windows
+ F1 = starts Windows Help
F1 by itself brings up Help in the current application
+ E = start Explorer at Desktop folder level
+ F = start Find Files/Folders dialog box
+ F + CNTL = start Find Computer dialog box
+ B = Sets focus on the task bar, navigate by using the arrow keys; press ENTER to open applications.
+ TAB = cycle through taskbar buttons
+ BREAK = display Systems Properties panel

If you have the IntelliType software from Microsoft, additional special key combinations become available, such as + C= Start Control Panel.

+ L = lock the desktop ( XP only )
Nearly as easy, for W2K and XP, you can create a shortcut to lock the desktop:
rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation

Copernic has released a free Windows Keyboard Enhancer for Win95/98/NT which

• Allows you to create shortcuts with the Windows key
• Starts your favorite applications, folders and Web pages instantly
• Automatically creates more than 10 useful shortcuts
• Supports about 200 key combinations
• Bundles a unique Task Manager (Win95/98 only)

Niffty utility: ShortKeys is a macro utility allowing you to setup replacement text or paragraphs for any given number of user defined keystrokes. ShortKeys monitors the keyboard activity on a global nature and anytime a user defined keystroke combination is typed in, it will be replaced with the replacement text.

Related tips:

Windows Keyboard and Mouse Shortcuts

Hot key shortcuts

Add Winkey to older keyboards

Don't let the Dummies title turn you off. They are an excellent series.