Boss key

As a boss key (also Boss Key or anti-boss key called ) is a function (usually a key combination ) called in a computer program, which is intended to prevent a person standing next to the monitor, you can see that this program is run. For this, the screen of the program for a short time by another image ( for example, the image of a spreadsheet ) replaced to give the impression that they are working on the PC you are. Once the appropriate person averts their eyes from the screen, can by another command (such as another key combination ) are the original image is restored and the program continue to be used.

This function is mostly used by people who use during working computer programs or computer games, without having to have the approval of their supervisor ( boss). And derives its name " Boss Key " or " boss key ".

When using multitasking -capable operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, the boss key is redundant, since it can be switched with a simple keyboard shortcut or a mouse click between running programs, which is not possible, for example, under DOS.

The most famous computer game with a Boss -Key is probably the Leisure - Suit Larry series of Al Lowe be, in this game, the Boss Key feature should rather serve to amuse, because the simulated program does not look realistic. In addition, there was no way to return to activation of the Boss Keys to the game. Therefore, the Boss Key was more of a case in the game, from which there was no escape for Leisure Suit Larry.

• Computer game concept