To add a virtual desktop in Windows 10, select Task View on the taskbar (or press Windows logo key + Tab) and select New desktop. Switch between desktops with Windows logo key + Ctrl + Left arrow or Right arrow.
Virtual desktops let you keep separate sets of windows, such as one for work and one for personal use.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 25, 2026.
Create a new desktop
- Select Task View on the taskbar, or press Windows logo key + Tab.
- Select New desktop at the top of the screen.
You can also press Windows logo key + Ctrl + D to create a desktop and switch to it.
To rename a desktop, select its name in Task View and type a new one.
Switch between desktops
- Press Windows logo key + Ctrl + Right arrow or Left arrow.
- Or open Task View and select the desktop you want.
- On a touchpad, swipe left or right with four fingers.
Move a window to another desktop
- Open Task View.
- Right-click the window you want to move.
- Select Move to, then pick the desktop.
In the same menu, Show this window on all desktops keeps an app with you on every desktop. You can also drag a window onto another desktop at the top of Task View.
Rename a desktop
In Windows 10, version 2004 and later, open Task View, select the desktop’s name, such as Desktop 2, and type a new one like Work or School. Press Enter to save it. Names make it easier to remember what each desktop is for, and they stay after a restart.
Close a desktop
Press Windows logo key + Ctrl + F4, or open Task View and select the X on the desktop. Open windows move to the desktop next to it. Nothing is closed.
Choose what the taskbar shows
Go to Start > Settings > System > Multitasking. Under Virtual desktops, choose whether the taskbar and Alt + Tab show windows from all desktops or only the one you’re using.
If virtual desktops don’t work as expected
- The Task View button is missing. Right-click the taskbar and select Show Task View button. Windows logo key + Tab still works without it.
- Your touchpad can switch desktops. On laptops with a precision touchpad, swipe left or right with four fingers to move between desktops.
- Apps open on the wrong desktop. If an app is already open, Windows may switch to the desktop it’s on. Move the window with Move to, or use Show this window on all desktops.
Frequently asked questions
Do virtual desktops slow down my PC?
Not by themselves. The apps you have open use memory, whichever desktop they’re on. Check them in Task Manager.
Can each desktop have its own wallpaper?
No, not in Windows 10. That feature came with Windows 11.
Is this the same as using two monitors?
No. Virtual desktops switch sets of windows on the same screen. To spread windows across two screens, see how to set up dual monitors in Windows 10.
How many desktops can I make?
There’s no small limit, so you can make as many as you need. Most people find two to four easiest to keep track of.
Can I change the order of desktops?
Not in Windows 10. You can move windows between desktops, but not move the desktops themselves. Windows 11 lets you drag them into a new order.
Can I use a different set of apps on each desktop?
Yes. Open the apps you need on each desktop. Switching desktops hides the windows from the others, but every app keeps running in the background.
What’s the fastest way to make a new desktop?
Press Windows logo key + Ctrl + D. Windows creates a new desktop and switches to it right away.
To keep one window visible above everything else, see how to keep a window on top in Windows 10.
Virtual desktops work well with snapping and Alt + Tab. See how to multitask on Windows 10.
Microsoft’s guide is Keyboard shortcuts in Windows (Virtual desktops shortcuts). More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
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.