How to turn off the computer screen and still keep the computer running

Wondering how to turn off the computer screen and keep it running on Windows 10/11? It's a lot easier than you might think. This guide provides you with simple step-by-step instructions.

How to turn off the computer screen and still keep the computer running

Understanding the Default Behavior

Many users may not know that Windows can function in diverse setups, turning laptops into efficient desktop workstations. By connecting an external keyboard, mouse, and monitor, your laptop can seamlessly adapt. However, how can you keep your device running with the lid closed?

By default, Windows enters sleep mode when you close the lid, meaning that you'll need to keep the laptop open to keep it functioning properly.

Steps to Keep Your Laptop Running with the Lid Closed

  1. Access Power Options:
    1. Locate the Battery icon in the System Tray (bottom right corner). If it's hidden, click the small arrow.
    2. Right-click on the Battery icon and select Power Options.
    3. Alternatively, you can access it through Settings > System > Power & sleep > Additional power settings on Windows 10. Adjust the window size if necessary.
    4. You can also open the Control Panel from the Start menu, set View by to Small icons, and select Power Options.
  2. In the Power Options menu, select Choose what closing the lid does on the left side.
  3. Modify the setting for When I close the lid:
    1. For Plugged in, change the drop-down box to Do nothing.
    2. If desired, you may also change this setting for On battery, but be aware of potential issues.
  4. Click Save Changes to finalize your settings.
Power Options in Windows

What to Expect After Adjusting Settings

Once you've made these adjustments, closing your laptop's lid will no longer interrupt its operation. You can easily control it using external peripherals like a mouse and keyboard, while your laptop remains neatly closed and out of the way.

Important Notes

  • When the laptop is asleep or turned off, use the Start menu commands for exiting these states after making your adjustments.
  • Utilize the power button if necessary for turning off the device.
  • This method may accelerate battery drain, so remember to power down your device before placing it in a bag or backpack to prevent overheating.

Conclusion

Now you know how to effectively turn off the laptop screen while keeping it running. As you've seen, the process is straightforward and beneficial for a variety of usage scenarios!

Sign up and earn $1000 a day ⋙

31 Comments

  1. Linh mèo -

    Wow, I didn't realize it was so easy to turn off the screen without shutting down everything! Love it

  2. Hương Đà Nẵng -

    I followed these steps, and it worked like a charm! Now I can leave my computer running while saving some energy

  3. Rita -

    I have a question: Can I still receive notifications when the screen is off? Would be nice if I don't miss anything important

  4. Hương KT -

    This really helps with reducing power consumption. Kudos to you for pointing this out!

  5. Nga -

    Turning off the screen while leaving the computer running? Brilliant! I just did it and it feels so good

  6. Gina -

    Such a useful tip! I've been doing this for my gaming sessions, so I don't tire my eyes when I'm waiting. Thanks so much

  7. Duy Sinh 6789 -

    It’s nice to see a post that addresses such a simple problem! I often leave my computer on overnight, but now I can turn the screen off

  8. Billie -

    Just a quick question—does turning off the screen impact my computer's performance at all? Would love to know

  9. Christine -

    Wow! This is so simple yet effective. I just followed your steps, and my screen is off while my downloads continue.

  10. Francis -

    This is a great solution, especially for those late-night sessions when you need the computer on but want to rest your eyes

  11. Missy -

    I love the tips here! Especially since I often fall asleep while working and wake up with my screen still on

  12. Amber -

    LOL, I used to just unplug it! This is definitely a smarter solution. Thanks for sharing

  13. Sam -

    I appreciate this! Sometimes I forget to turn off the monitor, and it just wastes energy

  14. Josh -

    This guide is just what I needed! I can't believe I didn't know this trick before

  15. Huy Lê -

    Definitely going to try this out tonight. I usually let my screen stay on while I work on other stuff!

  16. Huyền Lizzie -

    Is there any keyboard shortcut to quickly turn off the screen? I’d love to have a faster option.

  17. Sophie -

    Anyone knows if this works for both Windows and Mac? I'm thinking of trying it out on my laptop.

  18. Jill -

    What a relief! I always forget to turn off my screen, and it just stays on for hours. Not anymore

  19. Tommy -

    I think I remember doing something similar on my old laptop. Is there a way to set it up on my new PC as well

  20. Pete -

    Thank you for sharing this! My office is always warm, and this should definitely help with cooling it down.

  21. Emily -

    This is a game changer! I never thought about turning off the display while keeping processes running. You made my day

  22. Phúc IT -

    Great post! I usually just let my screen stay on, but I am a bit concerned about burn-in. This will definitely help!

  23. Quang vn -

    Best guide ever! Who knew I could save energy this way while still keeping it running for my tasks.

  24. Mèo con -

    Thank you for sharing this! My computer tends to overheat, so turning off the screen is the best solution

  25. Linh dễ thương -

    Thanks for the tips! I’ll definitely share this with my friends who always wonder how to keep their computers running while not using the screens.

  26. Tom -

    I stumbled upon this, and it's a total lifesaver! I can use my computer longer without burning the screen

  27. Lyly -

    I’m curious if this will also work for older versions of Windows, or is it more tailored for the latest updates

  28. David -

    Anyone tried this on a gaming PC? Interested to know how it affects performance

  29. Lucy -

    I’m curious, will my computer still run updates if the screen is off? I don’t want to miss any important updates

  30. Michael -

    This guide is really helpful! I always wondered how to turn off the computer screen while still keeping my downloads going. Thanks

  31. Mai Kiểu -

    I really hope this tip helps with my energy bill! I can't wait to turn off the screen while keeping my work going

Leave a Comment

How to reset iPhone to restore factory settings, any iPhone can do it

How to reset iPhone to restore factory settings, any iPhone can do it

Resetting your iPhone is the easiest way to reset your iPhone settings to their defaults. Resetting your iPhone can help you fix a few simple problems. Here are the steps to restore your iPhone to factory settings.

How to create AI radio on YouTube Music

How to create AI radio on YouTube Music

The YouTube Music app features Ask for Music, which helps create AI-powered radio based on each person's custom commands.

Basic guide to using Blooket - an application that creates learning games

Basic guide to using Blooket - an application that creates learning games

Blooket.com is known as an extremely useful educational support platform. Let's explore how to use Blooket through this article with Quantrimang.

Instructions to unpin default folders Windows 11

Instructions to unpin default folders Windows 11

Windows 11 File Explorer includes a number of default folders pinned to the sidebar. If you do not need to use them, you can completely unpin the default folders in File Explorer.

How to enable Notification Cooldown on Android 16

How to enable Notification Cooldown on Android 16

Notification Cooldown Android will gradually reduce the volume and vibration intensity of notifications when you receive too many notifications from the same app at once.

TFT Frost Team Season 12, TFT Frost Build

TFT Frost Team Season 12, TFT Frost Build

DTCL season 12's Iceborn is the most special race and its mechanism is somewhat similar to Sub-Zero in Mortal Kombat.

ScratchJR Maze Game Design Tutorial (Final Post)

ScratchJR Maze Game Design Tutorial (Final Post)

For projects or games in ScratchJR, the start and end screens play an important role in enhancing the completeness of the product.

Instructions for adjusting the size of the Windows 11 scroll bar

Instructions for adjusting the size of the Windows 11 scroll bar

The scroll bar on Windows 11 is compact in size, but many people want to change this size, enlarge the scroll bar to make it easier to see when needed.

How to collaborate on notes in FaceTime

How to collaborate on notes in FaceTime

FaceTime iOS 17 has a collaboration feature in notes to type notes together and track changes as someone types.

Windows 11 camera resolution configuration guide

Windows 11 camera resolution configuration guide

With Windows 11 build 27758 , Microsoft added advanced camera options so users can adjust basic camera configuration settings.

How to annotate screenshots using Snipping Tool

How to annotate screenshots using Snipping Tool

Snipping Tool also provides built-in tools for annotating computer screenshots. This tool allows you to mark and highlight important parts of the screenshot to convey the message you want.

How to view IP address on computer, view Win 10 IP address

How to view IP address on computer, view Win 10 IP address

Checking your computer's IP address will be necessary in many cases. If you want to know what your computer's IP address is, read this guide to see your computer's IP.

Instructions for adjusting vibration mode on Xiaomi phones

Instructions for adjusting vibration mode on Xiaomi phones

Vibration mode on Xiaomi phones can be used in silent mode so you can easily receive new messages, calls or application notifications.

Instructions on how to upgrade RAM on PC and laptop

Instructions on how to upgrade RAM on PC and laptop

Installing more RAM is the most effective solution to speed up your computer. Even if your computer is new, after only a few years of use, you will have to install more RAM to ensure better speed. In addition, new operating systems also require more memory. When a computer does not have enough RAM, it will exchange data streams with the hard drive, and that is the reason why your system runs slowly.

Instructions for canceling Gemini Advanced subscription

Instructions for canceling Gemini Advanced subscription

Gemini Advanced is a paid subscription from Google that gives you access to more advanced AI models. After signing up for the Gemini Advanced plan, if you no longer need to use it, you should cancel the Gemini Advanced plan, according to the article below.