Multiple Desktops in Windows 10

 Aug 24, 2015

Whilst support for "virtual" desktops has been around for a while, Microsoft hadn't made it a first-class member of the OS. Now, in Windows 10, you can easily create and manage multiple desktops, these can then be used to seperate tasks out into their own 'workspaces'.

Create a new desktop

You can easily create a new desktop at any time.

Keyboard shortcut: WINDOWS KEY + CTRL + D

Open Task View and then select "Add a desktop." If you already have two or more desktops open, this will appear as a "+" tile. Note, you can also use WINDOWS KEY + TAB or click the new 'Task View' button on the taskbar.

Multiple Desktops Windows 10

If you used the shortcut then your new desktop will be added in the background. You can use Task View to see that it has been created.

Multiple Desktops Windows 10

Switching between desktops

You can switch between your available desktops at any time via the use of WINDOWS + CTRL + your choice of left or right arrow key, depending on the direction you need to go. You can also open Task View and click the thumbnail of the desktop you wish to switch to.

Move windows between desktops

As you start opening apps and other miscellaneous windows, you may find that you wish to move something from one desktop to another.

To perform the move, right-click the window you wish to move and select 'Move To' and then select the desktop you wish to move the windows to.

Multiple Desktops Windows 10

Closing a desktop

To close an opened desktop, press WINDOWS + CTRL + F4 or, using the mouse, open Task View and click the close button that appears when you hover over it.

Multiple Desktops Windows 10

Switching between apps

Some things never change *grin* - ALT TAB works like a charm to switch between open apps.

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About the Author:

Steve Wiggins  

Steve is a highly experienced technical trainer with over 10 years of specialisation in Software Application Development, Project Management, VBA Solutions and Desktop Applications training. His practical experience in .NET programming, advanced solution development and project management enables him to train clients at all levels of seniority and experience. Steve also currently manages the IT infrastructure for New Horizons of Brisbane, providing him with daily hands-on experience with SCCM, Windows Server 2012 and Windows 8.

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