How to Use Multiple Desktops in Windows 11

Multiple desktops in Windows 11 let you separate groups of apps and open windows into different workspaces. You can use one desktop for email, another for a project, and another for personal tasks without closing the applications you still need.

Why use multiple desktops?

Multiple desktops reduce clutter and make it easier to switch context. They are useful for separating work and personal activity, keeping different projects organized, or preparing a clean workspace before a meeting. [1]

1. Create a new desktop

1. Hover over the Task view icon on the taskbar, or press Windows key + Tab.
2. Select New desktop.
3. Select the new desktop’s name and rename it.

Use practical names such as Client Work, Finance, or Personal. A meaningful name is easier to recognize than Desktop 2 or Desktop 3.

2. Switch between desktops

Open Task view with Windows key + Tab and select the desktop you want. You can also use the keyboard shortcut Windows key + Ctrl + Left arrow or Windows key + Ctrl + Right arrow to move between desktops quickly.

3. Move a window to another desktop

1. Open Task view with Windows key + Tab.
2. Find the window you want to move.
3. Drag it onto the target desktop preview.

Move an application to the desktop where it belongs instead of opening duplicate copies across several workspaces.

4. Set a separate background

1. Open Task view.
2. Right-click the desktop you want to customize.
3. Select Choose background.
4. In Personalize your background, choose Picture and select an image.

Microsoft notes that different backgrounds for multiple desktops require picture backgrounds. A slideshow or separate solid colour cannot be used for each desktop. [1]

5. Control taskbar and Alt+Tab behavior

1. Open Settings > System > Multitasking.
2. Expand Desktops.
3. Choose whether the taskbar shows windows only from the current desktop or from all desktops.
4. Choose whether Alt+Tab shows windows only from the current desktop or from all desktops.

Showing only the current desktop keeps the taskbar focused. Showing all desktops makes it faster to reach an application without switching workspaces first. Choose the option that matches your workflow. [1]

6. Close a desktop

Open Task view, move to the desktop preview, and select its close button. Windows closes the workspace but keeps open windows available by moving them to another desktop. Review the destination so important applications remain easy to find.

A practical workspace layout

Start with two or three desktops rather than creating one for every task. For example, use Work for communication, Project for the active deliverable, and Personal for non-work tasks. Keep each desktop’s applications stable so switching becomes predictable.

Common mistakes

• Creating too many desktops to maintain easily.
• Leaving desktops with generic names.
• Showing every window on every taskbar and losing the benefit of separation.
• Closing a desktop without checking where its windows moved.
• Expecting a different slideshow or solid colour for each desktop.

Sources

1. Microsoft Support: Configure multiple desktops in Windows