This is the first thing that you should do. Perform a power reset and see if it works for you. Some laptops have a power reset button. If your laptop has such a button, use it to perform a power reset ...

How long does it take someone to compromise this HP laptop lock, and what sinister tools do they need? Fifteen seconds. Screwdriver. Uh… maybe it’s time to start looking into a lock for your lock.

That small slot with the lock icon on many laptops is easy to ignore, but it has a practical security purpose that can make a big difference in some situations.