Keeping your laptop’s screen on while it’s closed can be incredibly useful, especially if you want to use an external monitor or simply keep a process running without interruption. However, by default, laptops are set to go into sleep mode when you close them. In Windows 11, you can easily change this behavior with a few simple steps. You’ll need to dive into your laptop’s power settings to tweak it just right. By the end of this guide, you’ll have your laptop set to keep its screen on even when the lid is shut, giving you the flexibility you need.
How to Keep Screen On When Laptop is Closed in Windows 11
Ready to adjust your power settings so your laptop stays alive and kicking even when it’s closed? Let’s walk through the steps to make sure your screen stays on.
Step 1: Open Control Panel
First, click on the Start menu and search for “Control Panel,” then open it.
The Control Panel is your gateway to tweaking many settings on your laptop. It’s an old-school but powerful tool that’s still packed with controls in Windows 11.
Step 2: Go to Hardware and Sound
Next, find and click on “Hardware and Sound” within the Control Panel options.
This section is where you can adjust settings related to your devices and peripherals, including power options that control how your laptop behaves when you close the lid.
Step 3: Select Power Options
Now, look for and click on “Power Options” to access your laptop’s power settings.
Power Options is where you can customize how your laptop uses energy. It’s particularly useful if you’re trying to manage battery life or set up your device for specific scenarios.
Step 4: Choose What Closing the Lid Does
On the left sidebar, click on “Choose what closing the lid does.”
This feature lets you decide the action your laptop takes when you close its lid. It can be set to sleep, hibernate, or do nothing at all.
Step 5: Change the Settings for the Lid
Under “When I close the lid,” choose “Do nothing” from the drop-down menus for both “On battery” and “Plugged in”.
By selecting “Do nothing,” you’re telling your laptop to remain active even if you close the lid. This setting is ideal for using external displays or running tasks that need to stay active.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your laptop will no longer go to sleep when you close the lid. Instead, it will keep the screen on, allowing you to continue using it with an external monitor or performing tasks in the background.
Tips for Keeping Screen On When Laptop is Closed in Windows 11
- Always double-check your power plan settings to ensure they match your needs.
- Consider using a cooling pad if you frequently keep your laptop closed for long periods to prevent overheating.
- When traveling, switch back to default settings to save battery life.
- If using an external monitor, verify that the display settings are properly configured for optimal use.
- Remember to lock your computer for security if you’re stepping away while the lid is closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this setting harm my laptop?
No, adjusting this setting won’t harm your laptop. However, ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.
Will my laptop’s battery drain faster?
Yes, keeping your screen on can lead to faster battery drain, so keep it plugged in when possible.
Can I reverse this setting?
Absolutely! You can change it back at any time by following the same steps and choosing a different setting like “Sleep.”
Does this work with all laptops?
Most modern laptops support this feature, but older models might not have the same settings available.
What if my laptop still sleeps after closing the lid?
Double-check your power settings and ensure you’ve applied the changes correctly. Restarting can also help apply settings.
Summary
- Open Control Panel
- Go to Hardware and Sound
- Select Power Options
- Choose What Closing the Lid Does
- Change the Settings for the Lid
Conclusion
By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to keep the screen on when your laptop is closed in Windows 11. This tweak is especially handy when you want to use an external monitor or need your laptop to keep running tasks even when it seems out of sight. While it’s simple to set up, remember that leaving your laptop on for long periods can lead to overheating, so take precautions like using a cooling pad.
If you’re a frequent traveler or find yourself in different power scenarios, you might want to revisit these settings to adjust them accordingly. Always stay mindful of your laptop’s battery life and security. Closing the lid and walking away, knowing your tasks are still running smoothly, can be liberating. You might also want to look into additional Windows 11 features that can further enhance your productivity and overall experience. So go ahead, explore, and make your laptop work just the way you want!
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.