Disabling a second monitor on Windows 11 is easy and can be done in just a few steps. You simply need to access the display settings, select the second monitor, and choose to either disconnect it or change its display mode. This guide will walk you through the process.
In this tutorial, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to disable your second monitor on a Windows 11 system. Whether you’re looking to temporarily turn it off or make more permanent adjustments, follow these simple steps.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, you need to access the settings menu.
You can do this by clicking on the Start button and then selecting the gear icon, or simply pressing the Win + I keys together on your keyboard.
Step 2: Go to System
Next, navigate to the System section in the Settings menu.
Once you’re in settings, you’ll find a list of options on the left-hand side. Click on «System» to proceed.
Step 3: Select Display
After opening the System settings, find and click on «Display.»
This will take you to the display settings where you can see all the monitors connected to your system.
Step 4: Identify Monitors
Locate the section that shows your monitors.
You’ll see a diagram or list of screens labeled as 1, 2, and so on. Identify which one is your second monitor.
Step 5: Change Display Settings
Click on the second monitor to select it.
A dropdown menu or additional options will appear. From here, choose «Disconnect this display» or change the display mode to «Show only on 1.»
What Happens Next
After you complete these steps, your second monitor will either be disabled or its display settings will be adjusted. This means it will no longer show any content, and you can work solely on your main monitor. If you need to re-enable it, simply follow the steps in reverse.
Tips for Disabling Second Monitor on Windows 11
- Always save your work before changing display settings.
- Use the «Identify» button to make sure you’re selecting the right monitor.
- If you’re frequently switching between single and dual monitor setups, consider using keyboard shortcuts or creating a display profile.
- Remember, you can also change the primary monitor if needed.
- Restart your computer if the changes don’t take effect immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I re-enable my second monitor?
Just go back to the Display settings and change the display mode back to «Extend» or «Duplicate.»
Will disabling my second monitor affect my computer’s performance?
Not significantly. It might even improve performance slightly since the system has fewer resources to manage.
Can I disable the second monitor temporarily?
Yes, you can disable it and re-enable it anytime through the same settings.
What if my second monitor doesn’t show up in the Display settings?
Try reconnecting the monitor or updating your graphics drivers.
How do I make my second monitor the primary monitor?
In the Display settings, drag the screen icons to rearrange them and check the box that says «Make this my main display.»
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to System.
- Select Display.
- Identify Monitors.
- Change Display Settings.
Conclusion
Disabling a second monitor on Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few minutes. Whether you’re looking to streamline your workspace, solve a technical issue, or simply focus on a single screen, following the steps outlined above will help you achieve your goal. Don’t forget to save any open work before making changes and use the tips provided to make the process even smoother.
If you found this guide helpful, why not explore other Windows 11 features and settings? There’s a lot more to discover that can enhance your computing experience.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.
Read his full bio here.
On Windows 11, when you need to disconnect a display, the process usually only requires unplugging the cable. While this is a simple solution, connecting and disconnecting a monitor many times can lead to cable problems, and you can damage the video port in the graphics cards and the display itself.
It’s also possible to turn off the monitor, but Windows 11 will still be able to recognize it. However, you have an alternative. You can use the Settings app to disconnect a monitor without unplugging the cable.
In this guide, you will learn the steps to disconnect a monitor without unplugging the cable on Windows 11.
Disconnect monitor without unplugging on Windows 11
The steps to disconnect a display will depend on the number of monitors connected to the computer.
Disconnect display in a dual-monitor setup
To disconnect a monitor in a dual-monitor setup on Windows 11, use these steps:
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Use the Windows key + P keyboard shortcut.
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Using the “Project” flyout, select the “PC screen only” option.
Once you complete the steps, the second monitor will disconnect automatically.
Disconnect display in a triple-monitor setup
To disconnect a monitor on a setup that uses three or more monitors, use these steps:
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Open Settings.
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Click on System.
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Click the Display page on the right side.
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Select the monitor to disconnect.
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Select the “Show only on X” option to connect to only one display and disconnect the other.
After you complete the steps, the contents of the desktop will only appear on the display you selected while disconnecting the other monitor.
If you want to re-connect the display, you can use the same instructions, but on step No. 5, select the “Extend these display” or any of the “duplicate” options.
Mauro Huculak is a
Windows How-To Expert and founder of
Pureinfotech
(est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist,
Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications:
Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA),
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP),
VMware Certified Professional (VCP),
and
CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
You can follow him on
YouTube,
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About.me.
Email him at [email protected].
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Windows
Как отключать дополнительные мониторы при просмотре кино на основном, чтобы после включения окна не перемешивались по рабочим столам экранов?
Использую 2-3 монитора, подключённые к одному компьютеру (системный блок) на Windows 10/11. При просмотре кино на основном дисплее выключаю кнопками дополнительные экраны. Однако, после их включения окна программ хаотично перемешиваются между рабочими столами, поэтому каждый раз приходится заново перемещать приложения по одному на соответствующие мониторы. Как сделать, чтобы окна оказались на тех же дисплеях, где были изначально?
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@mindtester Куратор тега Windows
не дублируйте вопросы. можно корректировать первый заданный вопрос. так требуют правила данного сайта
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#, я понимаю, но это не дубликат, хоть итоговая проблема похожа, но вопрос совсем в другом, т.к. есть отключение питания по кнопке для просмотра кино, чтобы не отвлекали горящие экраны, а не спящий режим монитора.
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@mindtester Куратор тега Windows
evgnkulikov, Вы выключаете мониторы? но не главный? так? .. если остается главный… надо подумать…
… возможно что включение/отключение монитора прямо во время сеанса пользователя, бросает все активные окна на главный, возможно на задний план..
.. других мыслей пока нет. у меня опыт отключения ноута от большого монитора, тут все окна прыгают на место по мере его доступности..
… ща перепроверю )) -
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@mindtester Куратор тега Windows
evgnkulikov, проверил — все так, как описал выше. это при отключении кабеля (тайп-си/hdmi)
а при отключении питания монитора, у меня по крайней мере, вообще ни чего не прыгает — тупо не вижу главный экран, пока не включу.
мое мнение — надо искать отклонения от типовых настроек у Вас. и суть вопроса одна в обоих случаях. -
#, в этом и странность, что в момент отключения доп. мониторов перемещения не происходит, а вот при включении — да.
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@mindtester Куратор тега Windows
evgnkulikov, хмм.. а проверьте влияет ли порядок включения/выключения?.. 3 монитора у меня тоже было, но на работе и довольно давно. мониторы не выключались в принципе. только спали когда комп гасился в конце рабочего дня
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@mindtester Куратор тега Windows
evgnkulikov, и попробуйте поиграть с фичей рабочих столов (областей).. может стабильнее будет поведение
в 11 так, а в 10 уже не помню как кнопка выглядела
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Windows 11 offers a handy split-screen feature that lets you multitask like a pro. However, if you find the split-screen distracting or unnecessary, disabling it is a piece of cake. All you have to do is adjust some settings to turn off this feature. This brief guide will walk you through stopping split screen on Windows 11, ensuring you regain control over your desktop space and workflow.
If you’re tired of windows snapping into a split-screen mode every time you try to move them, you’re in the right place. This guide will show you how to adjust the settings to disable the split-screen feature entirely.
Step 1: Open Settings
Head to the Start menu and select the “Settings” app.
To quickly find Settings, click the Start button (the Windows icon) on your Taskbar. You can also press the Windows key plus “I” and jump straight to the Settings menu where you can alter system preferences.
Step 2: Navigate to System
In the Settings window, choose “System” from the list on the left side.
The System tab is where you can manage your display, notifications, and power settings. It’s the hub for all things related to how Windows functions on your computer.
Step 3: Click on Multitasking
Under the System menu, find and click on “Multitasking.”
Multitasking settings allow you to configure how your windows behave on-screen. This is crucial for managing the split-screen feature that Windows 11 offers.
Step 4: Turn Off Snap Windows
Toggle the “Snap windows” switch to the “Off” position.
Turning off the Snap windows feature will stop your apps from automatically resizing and fitting into split-screen layouts. This change is immediate, so you’ll notice the difference right away.
Step 5: Close Settings
Exit the Settings app by clicking the “X” in the top-right corner of the window.
Once closed, your settings are saved, and you’ll notice a change in how windows behave.
After you complete these steps, your windows will no longer snap into a split-screen. This allows for more freedom in resizing and arranging your windows on the desktop without the system auto-arranging them for you.
Tips for Stopping Split Screen on Windows 11
- Consider re-enabling the feature if you start multitasking frequently, as it can boost productivity.
- Use virtual desktops if you need to manage multiple tasks without splitting screens.
- Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts like Alt + Tab for seamless window switching without split screens.
- Customize your taskbar to access frequently used apps without relying on snapped windows.
- Regularly update Windows to ensure settings options and features remain functional and bug-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I quickly turn the split screen feature on and off?
Yes, you can toggle the “Snap windows” feature in the Multitasking settings anytime.
Does disabling split screen affect performance?
No, turning off split screen does not impact your computer’s performance.
Will this setting revert after a Windows update?
Typically, settings changes like this remain after updates, but it’s good to double-check after any major update.
Are there other multitasking features I can use?
Yes, you can use features like virtual desktops or Task View for multitasking without using split-screen.
Is there a keyboard shortcut for disabling split screen?
There isn’t a direct shortcut for disabling it, but Windows key + I will get you to the settings fast.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to System.
- Click on Multitasking.
- Turn Off Snap Windows.
- Close Settings.
Conclusion
Stopping the split screen feature on Windows 11 is a straightforward task that can enhance your desktop experience, especially if you prefer a more flexible arrangement of windows. With just a few clicks, you can enjoy a clutter-free workspace and focus better on your tasks. Remember, though, that multitasking features are designed to help boost productivity. If you ever find yourself juggling many windows again, consider revisiting this feature.
If you’re curious about other Windows 11 features or tips for optimizing your workflow, there are plenty of resources online. From customizing your taskbar to exploring new keyboard shortcuts, diving deeper into Windows 11 can uncover tools you might have never known you needed. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, understanding the intricacies of your operating system can make all the difference in maximizing your computer’s potential. Happy exploring and tailoring Windows 11 to fit your unique needs!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.
Read his full bio here.