All menu items can be selected by using accelerator or mnemonic keyboard shortcuts. An accelerator is a key combination that provides shortcut access to a user interface function. A mnemonic (sometimes referred to as a "hotkey ") is a key equivalent (used in combination with the Alt key) for selecting user interface components such as menu items. The mnemonic "hotkey " letter is on the item in the user interface.

Select secondary menu items by opening the main menu and using the up or down arrow key until the item is highlighted. Press the right arrow key to open a submenu, and press Enter to select your choice.

Keyboard shortcuts are not case-sensitive. Mnemonic keystrokes may be pressed either sequentially or simultaneously. All menu items have mnemonics, but not all menu items have accelerators.

Routine functions such as opening, saving, and printing files can be performed using the standard Microsoft keyboard shortcuts. Other menu items are unique to Backup Exec.

The following table lists keyboard shortcuts to display labels and the contents of the Backup Exec button: