How To Switch Desktop Windows 11 _verified_ Jun 2026

In Windows 11, "desktops" are referred to as Virtual Desktops . They allow you to organize different tasks into separate workspaces (e.g., one desktop for work and another for gaming). Here are the four main ways to switch between them. Method 1: Using the Task View (The Mouse Method) This is the most visual way to manage and switch your desktops.

Look at your Taskbar at the bottom of the screen. Click the Task View icon (it looks like two overlapping squares: [] ).

Note: If you don't see the icon, right-click the Taskbar, select "Taskbar settings," and turn on the toggle for "Task view."

A view of your current open windows will appear at the top. Look at the bottom of the screen; you will see a row of your desktops labeled "Desktop 1," "Desktop 2," etc. Click on the desktop you wish to switch to. how to switch desktop windows 11

Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts (The Fastest Method) Once you get the hang of these shortcuts, you will likely never use the mouse for this again.

To move to the next desktop (to the right): Press Windows Key + Ctrl + Right Arrow To move to the previous desktop (to the left): Press Windows Key + Ctrl + Left Arrow

Tip: Hold down the Windows and Ctrl keys and tap the Arrow key to cycle through your desktops rapidly. Method 3: Using Three-Finger Swipe (Touchpad Gestures) If you are using a laptop with a precision touchpad, Windows 11 supports gestures. In Windows 11, "desktops" are referred to as

Place three fingers on the touchpad. Swipe Left or Right to switch between your active virtual desktops.

(Note: This requires "Three-finger gestures" to be set to "Switch apps and show desktop" in Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad.) Method 4: Using the Task Switcher You can also switch desktops while cycling through your open apps.

Press Alt + Tab . While holding Alt , press Tab repeatedly until you see the option for "New Desktop" or the specific desktop thumbnail at the bottom of the screen (depending on your specific Windows update version). Alternatively, pressing Windows Key + Tab opens Task View directly, where you can click the desktop at the bottom. Method 1: Using the Task View (The Mouse

Bonus: How to Create and Manage Desktops You need more than one desktop to switch between them! How to create a new desktop:

Press Windows Key + Tab or click the Task View icon. Click "New desktop" at the bottom left (or top left) of the screen.