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How to Fix Multiple Desktops Not Working Issues in Windows 10 Pro: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Multiple desktops in Windows 10 Pro help you organize your workspace efficiently by allowing you to create and switch between different virtual desktops. However, sometimes this feature may stop working or behave unexpectedly. If you find that multiple desktops are not functioning correctly, don’t worry—there are straightforward ways to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

This guide will walk you through simple to advanced steps to restore the multiple desktops feature on your Windows 10 Pro system. Each step is explained clearly to ensure even beginners can follow along.

By following this guide, you can quickly get back to managing your workflow with multiple desktops without hassle.

Let’s dive right into the troubleshooting process.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before you start troubleshooting, make sure of the following:

  • Windows 10 Pro Edition: Multiple desktops are available on Windows 10 Pro, Home, and Enterprise editions. Confirm you are running Windows 10 Pro by going to Settings > System > About.
  • Windows Updates: Ensure your system is up to date. Many issues are resolved in updates. Check updates at Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Basic Feature Check: Use Task View (the button next to the search bar or press Windows + Tab) to see if desktops are accessible.

If these basic checks are clear but desktops still don’t work, proceed with the following troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Often, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches that prevent features like multiple desktops from working. Restarting clears system memory and resets processes.

How to restart:

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Click Restart.

After your PC restarts, try using the Task View again to create and switch between desktops.

Step 2: Check Task View Settings

Windows 10 allows you to customize how multiple desktops behave. Sometimes, settings can disable or hinder desktop functionality.

Check virtual desktop settings by:

  1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
  2. Go to System > Multitasking.
  3. Under “Virtual desktops,” check the options for:
    • On the taskbar, show windows that are open on: Choose All desktops or Only the desktop I’m using.
    • Pressing Alt+Tab shows windows that are open on: Select your preferred setting.
  4. Adjust these settings and test if multiple desktops work better.

These settings control how windows appear across desktops, so incorrect options might cause confusion.

Step 3: Use Keyboard Shortcuts to Manage Desktops

Sometimes the issue lies in how desktops are created or switched. Using keyboard shortcuts ensures you are using the correct commands.

Try these shortcuts:

  • Windows + Ctrl + D: Create a new virtual desktop.
  • Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow: Switch between desktops.
  • Windows + Ctrl + F4: Close the current virtual desktop.

If these shortcuts don’t work, it indicates a deeper problem, so continue troubleshooting.

Step 4: Check for Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can interfere with Windows features, including multiple desktops. Running the System File Checker (SFC) can repair these files.

How to run SFC:

  1. Type cmd in the search bar.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait for the process to complete. It may take several minutes.
  5. Restart your PC after completion.

This tool scans and repairs missing or corrupted system files that could be causing the problem.

Step 5: Restart Windows Explorer

Windows Explorer controls the desktop interface. Restarting it can fix issues with UI features like multiple desktops.

To restart Windows Explorer:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Find Windows Explorer in the list.
  3. Right-click it and select Restart.

After Explorer restarts, check if the multiple desktops feature works properly.

Step 6: Disable Third-Party Software Conflicts

Some third-party applications, especially those modifying the desktop or window management, may interfere with virtual desktops.

How to check:

  1. Boot into Safe Mode by holding Shift while clicking Restart, then navigating to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Choose Safe Mode.
  2. In Safe Mode, try using multiple desktops.
  3. If it works normally, some software may be causing conflicts.
  4. Restart normally and try disabling startup programs via Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc > Startup tab).
  5. Disable suspicious apps one by one and test each time.

This process helps identify interfering software.

Step 7: Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers

Graphics drivers play a role in rendering desktop environments. Outdated or faulty drivers can cause issues with virtual desktops.

To update drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Display adapters.
  3. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow prompts and restart when done.

If updating doesn’t help, consider downloading the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website and reinstalling it.

Step 8: Create a New User Account

User profile corruption can cause features to malfunction. Creating a new account can help determine if this is the issue.

Steps to create a new user:

  1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
  2. Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
  3. Click Add someone else to this PC.
  4. Follow the instructions to create a new local user account.
  5. Log out and log in with the new account.
  6. Check if multiple desktops work correctly here.

If the feature works under the new user, your old account may be corrupted.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, consider these options:

  • Run Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot and run relevant troubleshooters.
  • Reset Windows: Use Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC to reinstall Windows while keeping your files.
  • Seek Official Support: Visit the Microsoft Support site for further assistance.

These steps are last resorts but can fix deeper system issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use multiple desktops on Windows 10 Home?

Yes, the multiple desktops feature is available in all Windows 10 editions, including Home, Pro, and Enterprise.

Why can’t I see the Task View button?

The Task View button might be hidden. Right-click the taskbar and select Show Task View button to enable it.

Are there any third-party tools to manage multiple desktops?

Yes, tools like VirtuaWin and Dexpot provide advanced desktop management features beyond Windows’ built-in options.

How many virtual desktops can I create?

Windows 10 allows you to create as many virtual desktops as your system resources can handle. There is no fixed limit.

Can multiple desktops improve my productivity?

Yes, using multiple desktops helps organize different tasks or projects separately, reducing clutter and improving focus.

Conclusion

Multiple desktops in Windows 10 Pro are a powerful way to enhance your workflow, but issues can arise occasionally. Starting with simple steps like restarting your PC and checking settings can often fix the problem. If needed, more advanced options such as repairing system files or creating a new user account can help resolve deeper issues.

Remember to keep your system updated and be mindful of third-party software that might interfere. With these troubleshooting techniques, you should be able to restore and enjoy the multiple desktops feature smoothly.

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