How to programmatically invoke Ctrl+Alt+Del window in Windows 7

Question

I am developing custom credential provider dll for Windows 7. This has a condition check; if it fails I want to show Ctrl+Alt+Del window.

Which function can I call to invoke the Ctrl+Alt+Del(SAS) window?

Answer 1

The answer is No such APIs exists.If you are so particular, try sending the key press sequence of Ctrl+Alt+Del combination using SendInput function in your code. This will surely invoke SAS window.

Actually we cannot hook Ctrl+Alt+Del key combination. In Windows XP it was possible by customizing GINA.dll. In between the window you are talking about is called the Winlogon desktop. It is also called secure desktop.

It wiil be invoked internally by windows only on certain situations like on start up, when the system is locked etc.

If you are trying to run customized application on winlogon desktop it is possible by using your customized credential provider. The credential provider dll can invoke any applications during start up of windows. It cannot entirely replace the default winlogon desktop.

It is meant for adding customized log in mechanisms in Windows 7. Have a look at this link