If you’re tired of your screen dimming or turning off when you’re in the middle of something important on Windows 11, there’s a way to keep it awake. By adjusting the power settings, you can ensure that your screen stays on for as long as you need. Follow these steps to customize your screen timeout settings.
How to Stop Screen from Turning Off Windows 11
Following the steps below will guide you through the process of changing your screen timeout settings in Windows 11. This will prevent your screen from turning off automatically, which can be useful when you need to keep an eye on something for an extended period.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Start menu and click on the "Settings" option.
To find the Settings easily, you can click on the Start button at the bottom-left corner of your screen, then click on the gear icon. Alternatively, you can press "Windows + I" on your keyboard to open Settings directly.
Step 2: Navigate to System
In the Settings window, click on "System."
The System tab is where you will find most of the essential settings for your computer. It includes options for display, sound, notifications, and power settings among others.
Step 3: Click on Power & Battery
Within the System settings, click on "Power & Battery."
The Power & Battery section allows you to customize how your system conserves power, including options for screen timeout settings.
Step 4: Adjust Screen and Sleep Settings
Click on the drop-down menus under "Screen" and "Sleep" to adjust the time settings.
Here you can set how long your screen stays on when your computer is plugged in or running on battery. Choose the "Never" option if you don’t want your screen to turn off at all.
Step 5: Save Your Settings
Close the Settings window to save your changes automatically.
Windows 11 will apply the new settings immediately, and you won’t have to worry about your screen turning off unless you manually change the settings again.
Now, your screen will stay on according to your new settings, making it easier to work without interruptions.
Tips for How to Stop Screen from Turning Off Windows 11
Here’s some extra advice to help you get the most out of your screen timeout settings:
- Use Shorter Time for Battery Mode: To save battery, consider a shorter screen timeout when your device is unplugged.
- Balanced Power Plan: Use the balanced power plan to optimize performance and save energy.
- Manual Screen Off: Use the "Win + L" shortcut to lock your screen manually when needed.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your system is up-to-date for the best performance and power management.
- Custom Power Plans: Create a custom power plan for different scenarios, like working or watching movies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent my screen from turning off when watching videos?
Most media players prevent the screen from timing out. You can also adjust your screen timeout settings as described above.
Can I set different screen timeout settings for different power modes?
Yes, Windows 11 allows you to set different timeout settings for when your device is plugged in and when it’s on battery.
Will keeping my screen on all the time damage my computer?
Keeping your screen on won’t damage your computer, but it could shorten the lifespan of your display over many years.
How do I reset my screen timeout settings to default?
You can reset to default by going to the Power & Battery settings and choosing the recommended power plan.
Can I use a third-party app to manage screen settings?
Yes, there are third-party apps available, but it’s often easiest and safest to use the built-in settings in Windows 11.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to System.
- Click on Power & Battery.
- Adjust Screen and Sleep Settings.
- Save Your Settings.
Conclusion
Stopping your screen from turning off automatically on Windows 11 is a simple task once you know where to look. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily adjust your screen timeout settings to keep it on for as long as you need. This can be particularly useful for presentations, watching videos, or simply ensuring that you don’t miss any important notifications.
Understanding your power and battery settings also helps manage your device’s performance and energy consumption. Customizing these settings allows you to create an efficient and user-friendly experience tailored to your specific needs.
For further reading, you might want to explore more about the new features in Windows 11 or delve into advanced power management settings. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who might benefit from keeping their screens on. Happy computing!

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.