Windows 7 is a popular operating system that was released by Microsoft in 2009. It introduced a number of new features and improvements over its predecessor, Windows Vista. One of the most useful features of Windows 7 is the ability to open multiple desktops, also known as virtual desktops.
In this blog post, we will explore the various methods you can use to open a new desktop on Windows 7. Whether you want to keep your work and personal tasks separate, or simply need more space to organize your open windows, opening a new desktop can greatly enhance your productivity and organization.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To open a new desktop on Windows 7, you will need a computer running the Windows 7 operating system. If you are unsure which version of Windows you have installed, you can check by clicking on the "Start" button, right-clicking on "Computer," and selecting "Properties" from the context menu. The "System" section of the displayed window will indicate the version of Windows you are using.
Additionally, you will need a basic understanding of navigating the Windows operating system and using keyboard shortcuts. While the methods outlined in this blog post are simple to follow, having a general knowledge of Windows will make the process even easier.
What Requires Your Focus?
Before we get into the various methods of opening a new desktop, it’s important to understand what requires your focus. Opening a new desktop is a relatively straightforward process, but it does have some implications that you should be aware of.
Firstly, opening a new desktop will create a separate workspace on your computer. Any open windows and applications on your current desktop will remain in the original workspace and will not be visible on the new desktop. This allows you to switch between desktops and keep your tasks organized.
Secondly, you should keep in mind that each desktop is independent, meaning that changes made on one desktop will not affect the others. For example, if you open a web browser on one desktop and then switch to another desktop, you will not see the browser window on the new desktop.
Lastly, it’s important to note that not all versions of Windows 7 support the multiple desktop feature. This feature is available in the Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate editions of Windows 7, but not in the Home editions.
Method 1: Using Windows Key + Tab
The first method we will explore is using the Windows Key + Tab keyboard shortcut. This method allows you to quickly switch between open windows and also provides the ability to open a new desktop.
- Press and hold the Windows key on your keyboard.
- While holding the Windows key, press the Tab key. This will open the Flip 3D view, which displays all open windows in a 3D perspective.
- Release the Windows key, but continue to hold the Tab key.
- Use the Tab key to navigate through the open windows. When you reach the desired window, release the Tab key to switch to that window.
- Once the Flip 3D view is open, press the Ctrl key and scroll your mouse wheel up or down to view multiple desktops.
- Click on the "+" button at the top right corner of the screen to create a new desktop.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Quick and easy way to switch between open windows. | 1. Limited control over the positioning and arrangement of open windows. |
| 2. Provides an overview of all open windows in a visually appealing manner. | 2. Requires holding down multiple keys and using the mouse wheel to navigate between desktops. |
| 3. Supports the creation of multiple desktops for improved organization. | 3. Limited customization options for the appearance of the Flip 3D view. |
Method 2: Using Task View
The second method we will explore is using the Task View feature. This method provides a more streamlined approach to opening a new desktop and allows for easy navigation between desktops.
- Click on the "Task View" button on the taskbar. This button is located next to the search box and resembles two rectangles stacked on top of each other.
- Click on the "+" button at the top right corner of the screen to create a new desktop.
- To switch between desktops, click on the desired desktop in the Task View interface.
- Alternatively, you can use the Ctrl + Windows key + Left arrow or Right arrow keyboard shortcuts to navigate between desktops.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Simple and intuitive interface for creating and navigating between desktops. | 1. Limited customization options for the appearance of the Task View interface. |
| 2. Provides a clear overview of open windows and allows for easy switching between them. | 2. Requires clicking on the "Task View" button on the taskbar to access the feature. |
| 3. Supports the creation of multiple desktops for improved organization. | 3. Limited keyboard shortcuts for navigating between desktops. |
Method 3: Using Keyboard Shortcuts
The third method we will explore is using keyboard shortcuts to open a new desktop. This method is the most efficient way to open a new desktop, as it eliminates the need to navigate through menus or use a mouse.
- Press the Windows key + Ctrl + D to create a new desktop.
- To switch between desktops, press the Windows key + Ctrl + Left arrow or Right arrow.
- To close a desktop, press the Windows key + Ctrl + F4.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Quick and efficient way to create and navigate between desktops. | 1. Requires memorization of keyboard shortcuts. |
| 2. Eliminates the need to navigate through menus or use a mouse. | 2. Limited control over the positioning and arrangement of open windows. |
| 3. Supports the creation of multiple desktops for improved organization. | 3. No visual representation of open windows, unlike the Flip 3D view or Task View. |
Method 4: Using Third-Party Software
The fourth method we will explore is using third-party software to open a new desktop on Windows 7. While Windows 7 does not have built-in support for virtual desktops, there are several third-party applications available that can provide this functionality.
One popular third-party software for creating virtual desktops on Windows 7 is Dexpot. Dexpot is a free, lightweight application that allows you to create multiple desktops, customize their appearance, and switch between them with ease.
To use Dexpot, simply download and install the application from the official website. Once installed, you can access Dexpot by double-clicking on its icon in the system tray. From there, you can create and manage virtual desktops according to your preferences.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides advanced features and customization options not available in Windows 7. | 1. Requires downloading and installing third-party software. |
| 2. Supports the creation of multiple desktops for improved organization. | 2. May consume additional system resources compared to the built-in Windows 7 methods. |
| 3. Allows for customization of desktop wallpapers, hotkeys, and other settings. | 3. May require additional configuration depending on personal preferences. |
Why Can’t I Open a New Desktop?
There are a few reasons why you may not be able to open a new desktop on Windows 7. Here are some common issues and their possible fixes:
1. Insufficient resources: Opening a new desktop requires additional system resources, such as memory and processing power. If your computer is running low on resources, it may not be able to create a new desktop. To fix this, try closing unnecessary programs and freeing up memory by closing unused browser tabs or applications.
2. Incompatible edition of Windows 7: As mentioned earlier, only the Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate editions of Windows 7 support the multiple desktop feature. If you are using a Home edition of Windows 7, you will not be able to open a new desktop. To fix this, consider upgrading to a version of Windows 7 that supports multiple desktops.
3. Disabled feature: It’s possible that the multiple desktop feature has been disabled on your computer. To check if this is the case, right-click on the taskbar and select "Properties" from the context menu. In the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties window, navigate to the "Navigation" tab. Under the "Corner navigation" section, make sure the "Enable Peek" and "Show Windows side by side" options are checked. Click "Apply" and "OK" to save any changes.
Implications and Recommendations
Opening a new desktop on Windows 7 can have several implications for your productivity and organization. Here are some recommendations based on the methods discussed in this blog post:
- Experiment with different methods: Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s worth trying them out to see which one works best for you. Some users may prefer the visual appeal of Flip 3D, while others may prefer the efficiency of keyboard shortcuts.
- Create a workflow: Determine how you want to use multiple desktops and establish a workflow that suits your needs. For example, you could use one desktop for work-related tasks and another for personal activities.
- Use desktop backgrounds to differentiate: Set different desktop backgrounds for each desktop to help visually separate them. This can be especially useful if you are using multiple desktops for different purposes.
5 FAQs about Opening a New Desktop on Windows 7
Q1: Can I open more than four desktops on Windows 7?
A: No, Windows 7 only supports a maximum of four desktops with the built-in methods. However, some third-party applications may allow for more than four desktops.
Q2: Can I move open windows between desktops?
A: Yes, you can move open windows from one desktop to another by simply clicking and dragging the window to the desired desktop.
Q3: Will my open windows be saved when I switch between desktops?
A: Yes, when you switch between desktops, your open windows and applications will remain open in their respective desktops. However, they will not be visible on the desktops you are not currently using.
Q4: What happens if I close a desktop?
A: If you close a desktop, all open windows and applications in that desktop will be closed. Make sure to save any unsaved work before closing a desktop.
Q5: Can I customize the appearance of each desktop?
A: With the built-in methods in Windows 7, there is limited customization available for individual desktops. However, third-party software like Dexpot provides more customization options, allowing you to set different wallpapers and other settings for each desktop.
Final Words
Opening a new desktop on Windows 7 can greatly enhance your productivity and organization. Whether you prefer visual interfaces or efficient keyboard shortcuts, there are multiple methods available to suit your needs. By experimenting with different methods and establishing a workflow that works for you, you can make the most of the multiple desktop feature in Windows 7.
