Changing the display number in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that helps manage multiple screens effectively. Start by right-clicking on your desktop and selecting ‘Display settings.’ In the display settings, identify the connected monitors, then drag and drop the displays to rearrange them according to your preference. After organizing, click ‘Apply’ to save your changes. This adjusts the order and layout of your displays, making it easier to navigate across multiple screens.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Display Number in Windows 11
This guide will walk you through the process of rearranging your displays by changing their order number in Windows 11. Follow these steps to ensure your screens are set up just the way you want them.
Step 1: Access Display Settings
Right-click on your desktop and choose ‘Display settings’ from the context menu.
When you do this, a window will pop up showing all your display options. This is where you’ll find everything related to your screen setup, like brightness, resolution, and, of course, display arrangement.
Step 2: Identify Your Displays
Look for the section that shows your connected monitors, usually labeled as “1,” “2,” etc.
Each screen is represented by a number. You can click ‘Identify’ to see which number corresponds to which physical monitor. This is super helpful if you’re unsure!
Step 3: Rearrange Displays
Drag and drop the display icons to match your desired physical arrangement.
Move the icons around by clicking and dragging them. This lets you set the layout that feels most intuitive for how you want to use your screens.
Step 4: Apply Your Changes
Once satisfied with the arrangement, click ‘Apply.’
By clicking ‘Apply,’ you confirm your changes. Windows will briefly go black as it adjusts to your new setup. Don’t worry, this is normal.
Step 5: Confirm the Layout
Check your physical setup to ensure everything aligns correctly with the changes.
Have a quick check to make sure the screens are behaving as expected. If you need to tweak things further, just head back into the settings.
After completing these steps, your displays will be organized according to your chosen layout. This makes using multiple monitors more seamless and helps you work efficiently.
Tips for Changing Display Number in Windows 11
- Start with the Right Monitor: If possible, begin by identifying and knowing the numbers of your monitors physically. This makes virtual arrangements easier.
- Resolution Matching: Ensure all monitors have matching resolutions for a consistent experience.
- Primary Display Settings: Set your primary monitor, where your taskbar and main apps will first appear, under ‘Multiple displays.’
- Cable Check: Make sure all cables are secured properly to avoid connectivity issues.
- Try Different Arrangements: Experiment with different configurations to find the best workflow for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my display revert back after I apply changes?
If your changes don’t stick, it might be due to outdated graphics drivers. Updating them could solve this issue.
Can I set one display to portrait and another to landscape?
Yes, you can set different orientations for each display in the display settings.
How do I set which display is primary?
In the display settings, select the monitor you want as the primary, then check ‘Make this my main display.’
What if my monitors are not detected?
Check all connections, restart your computer, and ensure your graphics drivers are updated.
Can I have different backgrounds on each monitor?
Yes, right-click on the desktop, choose ‘Personalize,’ and set different backgrounds for each display.
Summary of Steps
- Right-click desktop > ‘Display settings.’
- Identify displays.
- Drag to rearrange.
- Click ‘Apply.’
- Confirm setup.
Conclusion
Changing the display number in Windows 11 can significantly enhance your computing experience, especially when working with multiple monitors. By taking control of how your displays are arranged, you can create a workspace that feels intuitive and efficient. Whether you’re a multitasker juggling several projects or a gamer looking to optimize your setup, a well-organized display configuration can make all the difference.
Once you’ve gone through the steps to rearrange your monitors, you’ll see an immediate improvement in how you interact with your computer. It’s like going from a cluttered desk to a clean, organized workspace; everything just flows better. This small adjustment can lead to big changes in productivity and comfort.
For those who frequently switch between different tasks or need to keep several applications open at once, mastering the art of display arrangement is crucial. If you’re ready to take your Windows 11 experience to the next level, dive into the display settings and start customizing. You might be surprised at how much more you can get done with a setup that’s tailored to your 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.