Want to shut your laptop but still use an external monitor? No problem! Windows 11 makes this super easy. You just need to tweak a few settings so your laptop doesn’t go to sleep when you close the lid. Let’s dive into the steps.
How to Close Laptop and Use Monitor Windows 11
This guide will help you configure your laptop to work with an external monitor even when the laptop lid is closed. Follow these steps to set it up.
Step 1: Open Control Panel
First, open the Control Panel on your laptop.
You can do this by typing “Control Panel” into the search bar next to the Start menu and hitting enter. The Control Panel is like the command center for your computer, where you can change a bunch of settings.
Step 2: Go to Power Options
Next, find and click on “Power Options.”
Within the Control Panel, look for the “Power Options” category. If you don’t see it right away, try switching to the “Large Icons” or “Small Icons” view. This section helps you manage how your laptop uses power.
Step 3: Choose What Closing the Lid Does
In the Power Options menu, click on “Choose what closing the lid does.”
This link will take you to a page where you can tell your laptop what actions to take when you close the lid. This is the key step to keep your laptop running while using an external monitor.
Step 4: Change the Settings
Now, change the settings for “When I close the lid” to “Do nothing.”
You’ll see two options: one for when the laptop is on battery and one for when it’s plugged in. Set both to “Do nothing.” This ensures that closing your laptop won’t put it to sleep or shut it down.
Step 5: Save Changes
Finally, click “Save changes” to apply your new settings.
This step is crucial. If you don’t save, all the adjustments you made will be lost, and you’ll have to start over. Once saved, your laptop should keep running even when the lid is closed.
So, what happens now? Your laptop will continue to operate as usual, but the display will switch to the external monitor. You can close the lid without worrying about disrupting your work.
Tips for Closing Laptop and Using Monitor Windows 11
- Make sure your external monitor is properly connected before closing the lid.
- Use an external keyboard and mouse for easy navigation.
- Configure your display settings to extend or duplicate the screen as needed.
- Keep your laptop plugged in if you’re using it for long periods.
- Regularly check for Windows updates to ensure compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this setup with any laptop?
Yes, but you need to make sure your laptop supports external monitors and has the necessary ports.
Will closing the lid overheat my laptop?
Usually, it won’t. But ensure your laptop has good ventilation to avoid overheating.
Can I undo these settings?
Yes, go back to the Power Options and change the “When I close the lid” settings again.
Do I need any special cables?
No, just the standard HDMI, VGA, or USB-C cable compatible with your monitor.
What if my external monitor doesn’t display anything?
Double-check the connections and make sure the monitor is turned on and set to the correct input source.
Summary
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to Power Options.
- Choose what closing the lid does.
- Change the settings to “Do nothing.”
- Save changes.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Closing your laptop and using a monitor in Windows 11 is a breeze once you know the steps. This setup is perfect for creating a clutter-free workspace or for working more comfortably with a larger screen. If you follow the steps correctly, your laptop will keep humming along even with the lid closed, all while displaying on your external monitor. Need more help? Consult the Windows 11 support page or tech forums for additional tips. Happy computing!
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.