Windows 11 - Configure multiple virtual desktops Tutorial

In this video, you will learn how to configure multiple virtual desktops using Microsoft 365. The video covers the steps to add and customize additional desktops, including renaming them and changing wallpapers.
It also explains how to open documents on specific desktops and delete unwanted ones.
Configuring multiple virtual desktops can help you stay organized and be more efficient in your work.

1:35
2837 views

Available in Microsoft365

Objectifs :

This video aims to introduce a new feature that allows users to create and manage multiple desktops in Windows, enhancing productivity by organizing projects and documents effectively.

Chapitres :

Introduction to Multiple Desktops
The new feature in Windows enables users to add multiple desktops, which can be particularly useful for managing several projects simultaneously. This functionality allows for a more organized workspace, helping users quickly locate specific documents related to their ongoing tasks.
Setting Up a Second Desktop
To create a second desktop, follow these steps: 1. Navigate to the taskbar and hover over the task view icon. 2. Click on the plus (+) icon to add a new desktop. 3. It is essential to rename your new desktop for easy identification. To rename, return to the task view, left-click on the desktop name, type the new name, and press Enter. Customizing the desktop with a different wallpaper is highly recommended, as it provides a visual cue for each workspace. However, be cautious, as changing the theme will affect the entire Windows user session.
Managing Documents Across Desktops
Once your second desktop is set up, you can open documents specific to that desktop using File Explorer. Alternatively, you can drag and drop files from the main desktop if they are already open. This feature allows for seamless transitions between different projects without cluttering your main workspace.
Deleting Desktops
You can delete any desktop except for the first one. To do this, click on the cross (X) in the Windows management area. Be aware that any documents still open on a closed desktop will automatically transfer to the main desktop, ensuring that no work is lost.
Conclusion
Utilizing multiple desktops is not a primary feature of Windows, but it can significantly enhance productivity, especially in versatile job roles. By organizing your work into separate desktops, you can work more effectively and efficiently.

FAQ :

How do I create a new desktop in Windows?

To create a new desktop, hover your cursor over the Task View icon on the taskbar and click the plus (+) icon. This will take you to a new desktop.

Can I customize each desktop with different wallpapers?

Yes, each desktop can have its own wallpaper. To change it, right-click on the desktop, select 'Personalize,' and choose a different wallpaper for that specific desktop.

What happens to open documents when I close a desktop?

When you close a desktop, all documents that were open on that desktop will be transferred to the main desktop.

Is it possible to delete a desktop?

You can delete any desktop except for the first one. To do this, click on the cross (X) in the Windows management area.

How can I switch between different desktops?

You can switch between desktops by using the Task View feature. Click on the Task View icon on the taskbar to see all your desktops and select the one you want to switch to.

Quelques cas d'usages :

Project Management

Using multiple desktops can help project managers organize their work by dedicating one desktop to each project. This allows for quick access to relevant documents and applications, improving efficiency.

Design Work

Graphic designers can create separate desktops for different design projects, allowing them to keep their tools and files organized. This separation helps in maintaining focus and reducing clutter.

Research and Development

Researchers can utilize multiple desktops to manage different aspects of their work, such as data analysis, literature review, and report writing, making it easier to switch contexts without losing track of their tasks.

Remote Work

Remote workers can create distinct desktops for work and personal tasks, helping to maintain a clear boundary between professional and personal activities, which can enhance productivity.

Education and Learning

Students can use multiple desktops to separate their study materials, assignments, and online classes, allowing for a more organized and focused learning environment.

Glossaire :

Taskbar

A horizontal bar located at the bottom of the Windows desktop that provides quick access to applications, system notifications, and the Start menu.

Task View

A feature in Windows that allows users to see all open windows and desktops, enabling easy switching between them.

Desktop

A virtual workspace in Windows where users can organize and access files, applications, and shortcuts. Multiple desktops can be created for different tasks or projects.

File Explorer

A file management application in Windows that allows users to browse, open, and manage files and folders on their computer.

Wallpaper

The background image displayed on a desktop. Each desktop can have a different wallpaper for personalization.

Theme

A collection of visual elements that change the appearance of the Windows user interface, including colors, sounds, and wallpapers.

00:00:02

Thanks to a new feature you

00:00:04

can now add other office.

00:00:05

This can be useful if you are working

00:00:08

on several projects for example.

00:00:10

Change desktops to find your

00:00:12

specific already open document to a

00:00:15

project or function and save time.

00:00:17

You can also customize this

00:00:19

view and have a visual clue of

00:00:21

which desktop you have opened.

00:00:26

To set up your second desktop,

00:00:27

go to the taskbar and put your

00:00:29

cursor on the task view icon.

00:00:31

Click on the plus. That will take

00:00:33

you directly to the new desktop.

00:00:35

Remember to always rename it.

00:00:37

To do so, go back to the task

00:00:39

view and left click on the name

00:00:41

and type enter on shutdown.

00:00:43

Opting for another wallpaper is

00:00:45

highly recommended since each

00:00:47

desktop can have a different one.

00:00:49

Be careful though,

00:00:50

a theme will change the

00:00:52

whole Windows user session.

00:00:56

You can now open your document

00:00:58

corresponding to your dedicated

00:00:59

desktop by using the File Explorer

00:01:01

or clicking and dropping from the

00:01:03

main desktop if it's already opened.

00:01:13

Deleting your desktop is possible,

00:01:14

except for the first one.

00:01:16

By clicking on the cross

00:01:18

in the Windows management.

00:01:19

All documents still open on

00:01:21

a closed desktop will be

00:01:22

transferred to the main one.

00:01:26

Adding on the desktop is not a

00:01:28

primary feature, but it can be

00:01:30

very handy in a versatile job

00:01:32

allowing you to be more effective.

Mandarine AI: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

RELATED COURSES This tutorial is part of the following courses

2695 Views

Video Training Windows 11 - Set up your environment to find your feet

The end of Windows 10 has come and now it is time for even the most fearful to get into Windows 11. Do not panic though, this latest iterati...

ALL COURSES