How to Create and Close a Desktop on Windows 11
You can create and close virtual desktops on Windows 11 to organize your tasks and improve focus.
Think of a virtual desktop like another screen for your computer. You can run different apps on each one, and they won’t get in each other’s way. Windows 11 introduced virtual desktops to help you manage different workflows more efficiently.
For example, you might dedicate one desktop to your work applications, another to social media, and a third for gaming. This keeps your digital workspace tidy and prevents distractions.
Switching between these desktops is quick using Task View, a feature available since Windows 10. This way, you can instantly access the apps you need for whatever you’re doing.
Open Task View by pressing Windows key + Tab or clicking its taskbar icon. Click “+ New desktop” to create one, and hover over a desktop thumbnail in Task View to see an ‘X’ button to close it.
How to Create and Use Multiple Desktops in 🪟 Windows 11
Step 1Open Task View
Windows 11’s Task View lets you see and manage all your open apps and virtual desktops in one place.
How to open Task View:
- Taskbar Button: Look for an icon on your taskbar that looks like two squares stacked on top of each other. It’s usually near the Start button. When you hover over it, it will say “Task view.” Click it.
Tip: If you don’t see this button, right-click on an empty spot on your taskbar, choose “Taskbar settings,” and turn on the “Task view” option.
- Keyboard Shortcut: Press the Windows key + Tab at the same time. This will open Task View quickly.
Step 2Create a New Desktop
Creating a new desktop in Windows 11 is simple once you’ve opened Task View.
To make a new desktop:
- Look for a button that says + New desktop. It’s usually next to the small pictures of your desktops at the top.
- Click on + New desktop.
You’ll see a new preview appear at the top, likely called “Desktop 2.” This new desktop is empty and ready for you to use. Your first desktop is still there with all your apps open.
A heads-up: clicking an existing desktop preview will switch you to it, not create a new one.
Step 3Add Apps to Your New Desktop
Adding apps to your new Windows 11 desktop is easy and helps keep your workspaces organized.
The best way to add apps is to open them while you’re already on the new desktop.
- Switch to your new desktop (like “Desktop 2”) by clicking its picture in Task View.
- Open any apps you want to use on this desktop, just like you normally would.
These apps will now only show up on this specific desktop.
Step 4Close a Desktop
Closing a desktop in Windows 11 is straightforward when you no longer need a specific virtual workspace.
- Open Task View (Windows key + Tab).
- Move your mouse over the desktop picture you want to close.
- Click the small ‘X’ button that appears in the top corner of that desktop picture.
Don’t worry, any apps you had open on that desktop will automatically move to another one.
Reference:
Summary
Windows 11 virtual desktops let you create separate workspaces to keep your apps and tasks organized.
Does 🪟 Windows 11 have virtual desktops?
Yes, Windows 11 fully supports virtual desktops. This feature allows you to create multiple, separate desktop environments on your computer, each with its own set of open applications. It’s a great way to organize your tasks and improve focus by dedicating specific desktops to different workflows.
How do I view virtual desktops in 🪟 Windows 11?
You can view and manage your virtual desktops in Windows 11 by opening Task View. Click the Task View icon on your taskbar (it looks like two stacked squares) or press Windows key + Tab. This will display all your open windows and virtual desktops, allowing you to switch between them.
What are the disadvantages of using a virtual desktop?
While beneficial for organization, virtual desktops can sometimes lead to confusion if not managed well, making it hard to remember which apps are on which desktop. They might also consume slightly more system resources, potentially impacting performance on older or less powerful machines.
How to access virtual desktop on 🪟 Windows 11?
To access virtual desktops on Windows 11, open Task View by clicking its icon on the taskbar or by pressing the Windows key + Tab. From Task View, you can see all your current desktops, switch between them, create new ones, or close existing ones with ease.
Was this guide helpful?
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!