How to Turn On or Off Minimize Windows When a Monitor is Disconnected in Windows 11
You can turn on or off the Windows 11 feature that minimizes windows when a monitor is disconnected.
This setting controls whether applications automatically hide when you unplug an external display from your PC. It’s a built-in behavior designed to prevent windows from becoming inaccessible.
For example, if you have multiple applications open across two monitors and unplug one, Windows 11 will automatically minimize those applications on the disconnected screen. You can enable or disable this automatic minimization within Windows 11’s Display settings.
Why Does Windows Do This?
When you disconnect a monitor, Windows 11 has two choices. It can hide all the windows that were on that screen. Or it can move those windows to your main screen so you can still see them. Right now, Windows is probably hiding them. You might want to change that.
What Happens When You Change This Setting?
If you turn off the minimize feature, something different will happen. Instead of hiding your windows, Windows will move them all to your main screen. You can keep working without losing anything.
How to Change This Setting Using Windows Settings
- Press the Windows Key + I on your keyboard. The Settings window opens.
- Look at the left side. Click System.
- On the right side, click Display.
- Scroll down and find Multiple displays. Click it to open more options.
- Look for the option called Minimize windows when a monitor is disconnected.
- Check the box to turn it on. Uncheck the box to turn it off.
Here is what it looks like in Settings:
Windows Display Settings tile
Windows 11 minimize windows on disconnected monitor
How to Change This Setting Using the Registry (Advanced Users Only)
Warning: The Registry is where Windows stores important settings. Editing it the wrong way can cause problems. Follow these steps carefully. If you are not sure, ask someone for help.
To Turn ON Minimize Windows (This Is the Default):
reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop" /v MonitorRemovalRecalcBehavior /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /fTo Turn OFF Minimize Windows (Keep Windows on Main Screen):
reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop" /v MonitorRemovalRecalcBehavior /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /fWant to use these commands? Create a text file. Paste the code into it. Save it with a .reg extension. Then double-click the file. Windows will add it to your Registry.
Summary
- You can control what happens to your windows when you unplug a monitor.
- By default, Windows hides windows on the disconnected monitor.
- You can turn off this feature. Then Windows will move those windows to your main screen instead.
- Change this setting in Windows Settings. It takes just a few clicks.
- Advanced users can also edit the Registry using commands.
- Try both settings. See which one works better for you.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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