Windows 8, in particular, does not do a complete shutdown, so some service can be completed (e.g. defrag). If this is a problem when not plugged in, search Window for "Power Options" and change your power plan. Note that the power button, selecting "Shutdown" and closing the cover may be set to have different effects, such as hibernate (yes, it is still available), sleep or complete shutdown. You can also enter "shutdown -t 0 -s -f" in a command prompt to force an immediate complete shutdown.
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Windows 8, in particular, does not do a complete shutdown, so some service can be completed (e.g. defrag). If this is a problem when not plugged in, search Window for "Power Options" and change your power plan. Note that the power button, selecting "Shutdown" and closing the cover may be set to have different effects, such as hibernate (yes, it is still available), sleep or complete shutdown. You can also enter "shutdown -t 0 -s -f" in a command prompt to force an immediate complete shutdown.