How do I enable Windows 11's Virtual Desktop feature and manage multiple desktops?

Question

1. Enabling Virtual Desktops:
   • How do I enable and access the Virtual Desktop feature in Windows 11? Is it activated by default, or do I need to enable it through Settings or Task View?
2. Creating New Virtual Desktops:
   • What are the precise steps for creating new virtual desktops in Windows 11? Can I set up a shortcut for quickly adding desktops or do I have to use Task View every time?
3. Switching Between Desktops:
   • How do I quickly switch between virtual desktops in Windows 11? Are there keyboard shortcuts for seamless transitions? How do I assign specific apps to open in certain desktops?
4. Managing Apps Across Desktops:
   • How can I move applications from one virtual desktop to another? Is there a way to save a set of apps on a desktop and easily recall them later?
5. Customizing and Organizing Virtual Desktops:
   • Can I customize the background or themes for each virtual desktop individually in Windows 11? How do I organize my open applications or windows across multiple desktops for better workflow management? Sarkari Result
6. Closing Virtual Desktops:
   • What’s the easiest way to close an individual virtual desktop without losing the apps or windows open on it? How does the system manage the apps once a desktop is closed?

Answer 1

Enabling Virtual Desktops in Windows 11

The Virtual Desktop feature is enabled by default in Windows 11. You can access it through Task View, which is located on the taskbar (an icon that looks like two overlapping squares). If you do not see it, enable it by:

1. Right-clicking the taskbar and selecting Taskbar settings
2. Toggling Task View to On

Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Win + Tab to access Virtual Desktops.

Creating New Virtual Desktops

To create a new virtual desktop:

1. Press Win + Tab to open Task View
2. Click New Desktop (the plus sign at the top)
3. A new desktop will appear, allowing you to switch and organize apps

You can also use the shortcut Win + Ctrl + D to create a new desktop quickly.

Switching Between Virtual Desktops

You can switch between virtual desktops using:

1. Win + Ctrl + Left or Right Arrow to switch quickly
2. Win + Tab and then selecting the desired desktop
3. Swiping left or right with four fingers on a precision touchpad

Assigning Apps to Specific Desktops

Right-click an open app’s taskbar icon, select Move to, and choose a specific desktop.

Alternatively, open Task View by pressing Win + Tab, then drag the app to another desktop.

To keep an app visible on all desktops:

1. Open Task View with Win + Tab
2. Right-click an app and select Show this window on all desktops

Managing Apps Across Desktops

Moving Apps Between Desktops

Open Task View with Win + Tab and drag an open window to another desktop.

Saving and Restoring App Layouts

Windows 11 does not natively save desktop configurations after a restart, but third-party tools like Microsoft PowerToys (FancyZones) or Groupy can help organize and recall app layouts.

Customizing and Organizing Virtual Desktops

Changing Background for Each Virtual Desktop

1. Open Task View with Win + Tab
2. Right-click on a virtual desktop and select Choose Background
3. Set a unique wallpaper for that specific desktop

Different backgrounds help distinguish workspaces quickly.

Renaming Virtual Desktops

1. Open Task View with Win + Tab
2. Right-click a desktop name, such as Desktop 1, and choose Rename

You can name desktops Work, Personal, Gaming, or any other relevant title.

Closing Virtual Desktops

To close a virtual desktop quickly, use the shortcut Win + Ctrl + F4.

Alternatively, open Task View with Win + Tab, hover over the desktop, and click the X to close it.

When a desktop is closed, any open apps move to the next available desktop rather than closing.

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hth

Marcin