Keeping Music Playing When Your Laptop is Closed on Windows 11
Who doesn’t enjoy jamming out to their favorite tunes while getting things done? But what if you need to close your laptop lid without interrupting the music? It’s possible! To keep music playing when your laptop is closed on Windows 11, you just need to tweak a few power settings. In just a few steps, you’ll be able to close your laptop lid, keep it running, and let the music keep flowing.
How to Keep Music Playing When Your Laptop is Closed on Windows 11
By following these steps, you’ll configure your laptop to keep running even with the lid closed. This way, your music will continue to play without any interruptions.
Step 1: Open Control Panel
Open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
The Control Panel houses various system settings. By accessing it, you can change how your laptop behaves when you close the lid.
Step 2: Go to Hardware and Sound
Select “Hardware and Sound” from the Control Panel.
This section includes settings related to your hardware devices and sound. It’s where you can find the power options we need.
Step 3: Click on Power Options
Under the “Hardware and Sound” section, click “Power Options.”
Power Options lets you customize your laptop’s power settings. This includes what happens when you close the laptop lid.
Step 4: Choose What Closing the Lid Does
On the left side, click “Choose what closing the lid does.”
This setting determines the actions your laptop takes when you close the lid.
Step 5: Change Settings for "When I Close the Lid"
Select “Do nothing” for both “On battery” and “Plugged in” under the “When I close the lid” options.
By setting both options to “Do nothing,” your laptop will remain on and continue to play music even when the lid is closed.
Step 6: Save Changes
Click “Save changes” at the bottom.
This ensures that your new settings are applied.
After completing these steps, your laptop will continue to run and play music even with its lid closed. Just make sure it’s plugged in or has enough battery!
Tips for Keeping Music Playing When Your Laptop is Closed on Windows 11
- Monitor Temperature: Make sure your laptop has good ventilation to avoid overheating.
- Battery Usage: Be cautious if running on battery; your laptop may drain faster with the lid closed.
- External Monitor: Connect to an external monitor if you need to see the display while the lid is closed.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure your music player and Windows 11 are up to date to avoid any glitches.
- Check Audio Settings: Make sure your audio output settings are correct, especially if using Bluetooth or external speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my laptop overheat if I keep the lid closed?
Not necessarily, but make sure it’s on a flat surface and that vents aren’t blocked.
Does this setting affect my laptop’s battery life?
Yes, keeping your laptop running with the lid closed might drain the battery faster.
Can I use an external monitor while the lid is closed?
Yes, you can connect your laptop to an external monitor and still keep it running with the lid closed.
Will my laptop go to sleep if the battery is low?
Yes, it will still follow the low battery settings you have configured.
Is this method reversible?
Absolutely! You can always change the settings back through the Control Panel.
Step-by-Step Summary
- Open Control Panel: Find it in the Start menu.
- Go to Hardware and Sound: Select this option.
- Click on Power Options: Located under Hardware and Sound.
- Choose What Closing the Lid Does: Found on the left side.
- Change Settings for "When I Close the Lid": Set to "Do nothing."
- Save Changes: Confirm your settings.
Conclusion
Keeping music playing when your laptop is closed on Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to ensure an uninterrupted listening experience. By tweaking a few settings in the Control Panel, you can enjoy your favorite songs without having to keep your laptop open. Whether you’re studying, working, or just relaxing, this trick can make your life a bit easier and your environment a lot more pleasant.
Don’t forget to monitor your laptop’s temperature and battery life, as keeping it running with the lid closed might affect these factors. If you run into any issues, refer back to the step-by-step guide or the FAQs for help.
Now, go ahead and try it out! Keep those tunes playing and stay productive. If you found this guide helpful, be sure to share it with friends or family who might benefit from it.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.