How to Keep Screen On When Laptop Is Closed Windows 11
Ever wondered how to keep your laptop screen on even when it’s closed? It’s super handy if you want to connect to an external monitor or keep your laptop running while saving desk space. Here’s a quick guide: You need to adjust your power settings in Windows 11. This will allow your laptop to stay awake and keep running its tasks even when the lid is down.
How to Keep Screen On When Laptop Is Closed Windows 11
This guide will walk you through the steps to change your laptop’s power settings. By the end, your laptop’s screen will stay on even when you close the lid.
Step 1: Open Control Panel
First, open the Control Panel on your laptop.
You can do this by typing "Control Panel" in the search bar next to the Start menu and clicking on it. The Control Panel is where you can manage many aspects of your computer, including power settings.
Step 2: Go to Power Options
Next, navigate to "Power Options."
In the Control Panel, click on "Hardware and Sound," then find "Power Options." This section controls how your laptop uses power and can help you adjust settings for when the lid is closed.
Step 3: Click on "Choose what closing the lid does"
Find and click on "Choose what closing the lid does" in the left sidebar.
This will bring you to a screen where you can specify what happens when you close your laptop’s lid. It’s a crucial step to making sure your laptop stays awake.
Step 4: Set the Lid Close Action to "Do nothing"
Set the "When I close the lid" option to "Do nothing" for both "On battery" and "Plugged in."
You’ll see drop-down menus next to "When I close the lid." Choose "Do nothing" from these menus. This tells your laptop to keep running even if you close the lid.
Step 5: Save Changes
Don’t forget to save your changes by clicking the "Save changes" button at the bottom of the window.
Saving your changes ensures that your new settings take effect. Now, when you close your laptop’s lid, it will stay on and keep your screen active.
After you complete these actions, your laptop will continue to run its tasks even when the lid is closed. This is especially useful if you’re using an external monitor or need to keep processes running without the screen being in the way.
Tips for Keeping Screen On When Laptop Is Closed Windows 11
- Check Battery Settings: Ensure your battery settings are optimized to prevent your laptop from draining too quickly when the lid is closed.
- Use an External Monitor: If you have an external monitor, this setup will make it easier to keep working or watching content.
- Adjust Sleep Settings: Make sure your sleep settings are configured so your laptop doesn’t go to sleep unexpectedly.
- Monitor Laptop Temperature: Keeping the laptop closed might increase its temperature; make sure it has adequate ventilation.
- Use a Cooling Pad: For extended use with the lid closed, a cooling pad can help prevent overheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will keeping my laptop on with the lid closed damage it?
No, but make sure your laptop has proper ventilation to avoid overheating. Using a cooling pad can help.
Can I still use my keyboard and trackpad when the lid is closed?
You’ll need an external keyboard and mouse if you plan to use your laptop with the lid closed and an external monitor.
What if my laptop battery drains too fast?
Make sure your power settings are optimized for battery life, and consider keeping your laptop plugged in.
How do I reverse this setting?
Just go back to the Control Panel, navigate to "Power Options," and set "When I close the lid" to your preferred action.
Can I use this feature with all Windows 11 laptops?
Yes, this feature is available on all Windows 11 laptops with the latest updates.
Summary of Steps
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to Power Options.
- Click on "Choose what closing the lid does."
- Set the Lid Close Action to "Do nothing."
- Save Changes.
Conclusion
There you have it! Now you know how to keep your laptop screen on even when the lid is closed. This feature can be a real game-changer, especially if you use an external monitor or need to keep processes running without interruption.
It’s pretty easy to set up, right? Just a few tweaks in your power settings and you’re good to go. But don’t forget to keep an eye on your laptop’s temperature. Overheating can be harmful, so make sure there’s enough airflow or use a cooling pad. If you ever decide you want to revert the changes, just follow the steps in reverse.
For further reading, check out more tips on optimizing your laptop’s performance and battery life. Got any more questions or tips to share? Leave a comment below!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.