What is the SysRq key for on Computer Keyboards?
SysRq is a short for "System Request". In most situations pressing the SysRq button does nothing and crashing a computer or hindering the running of software is unlikely should you accidentally hit the key.
On most english language "qwerty" keyboards SysRq shares use with the print screen key (PrtScr) which often captures a current screenshot on to your clipboard. SysRq was originally an IBM function key which allowed users to interact directly with the machine operating syatem but, as IBMs influence on computer design lessened, the SysRq key became largely redundant.
However, SysRq is now on the comeback trail with the increased use of Linux, the open-source operating system. Linux users can enable a feature known as a "magic SysRq key" and then communicate directly with the operating system via the combination of pressing the Alt+SysRq keys. Geeks among us will use this feature to do a variety of things like dumping memory for debugging or rebooting unresponsive systems.
