Blog

How to Fix Projection Not Working Issues on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Projection issues on Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially when you need to share your screen quickly. Whether you’re trying to connect to a second monitor, a projector, or a wireless display, sometimes the projection feature just doesn’t work as expected.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to fix projection problems on Windows 11. No technical jargon, just clear instructions.

By following these steps, you can identify the cause of the problem and get your display working again in no time.

Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into troubleshooting.

Quick Note: Essential Checks Before Troubleshooting

  • Check your cables and connections: Make sure all HDMI, VGA, or DisplayPort cables are securely connected. Loose cables often cause projection issues.
  • Confirm your display supports projection: Not all monitors or projectors support wireless projection.
  • Restart your PC and display device: Sometimes a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches.
  • Ensure both devices are on the same network: For wireless projection, both your PC and the display device must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Step 1: Use the Windows Projection Shortcut

Windows 11 offers a quick way to toggle projection modes. Before making any changes, try this simple shortcut:

Press Windows key + P

This opens the projection sidebar with options:

  • PC screen only: Use only your main screen.
  • Duplicate: Show the same screen on both devices.
  • Extend: Use the second screen as an extension of your desktop.
  • Second screen only: Display only on the external device.

Try selecting “Duplicate” or “Extend” and see if your external display activates.

Step 2: Check Display Settings

If the shortcut doesn’t work, your display settings might be misconfigured. Here’s how to check and adjust them:

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
  2. Scroll down to the section labeled Multiple displays.
  3. Click Detect to let Windows search for additional displays.
  4. If your device appears, choose how you want to use it (Duplicate, Extend, or Second screen only).
  5. If it doesn’t appear, proceed to the next step.

Checking display settings helps ensure that Windows recognizes your external device.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall Display Drivers

Outdated or corrupted display drivers can cause projection problems. Updating or reinstalling them often fixes the issue.

  1. Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click your display adapter and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Follow prompts if updates are found.
  5. If updating doesn’t help, right-click the adapter again and choose Uninstall device.
  6. Restart your PC. Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.

Keeping drivers updated ensures compatibility and smooth communication between your PC and external displays.

Step 4: Enable Wireless Display Feature (For Wireless Projection)

Windows 11 requires the Wireless Display feature to project wirelessly. Here’s how to enable it:

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps > Optional Features.
  3. Scroll down and click Add a feature.
  4. Search for Wireless Display and select it.
  5. Click Install and wait for the process to complete.
  6. Restart your PC and try projecting again.

This step is essential because without the Wireless Display feature, your PC won’t detect wireless projectors or Miracast devices.

Step 5: Check Network Settings for Wireless Projection

Wireless projection depends heavily on network settings. Here’s what to check:

  • Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Different networks can prevent discovery.
  • Disable VPNs or firewalls temporarily. These can block projection connections.
  • Restart your router if network issues persist.

Proper network configuration allows your PC and external display to find each other easily.

Step 6: Use the Connect App to Find Wireless Displays

The Connect app helps establish a wireless projection session. If you’re projecting wirelessly, try this:

  1. Press Windows key + S and type Connect.
  2. Open the Connect app.
  3. Your PC will be ready to receive a connection from another device.
  4. On your PC, press Windows key + P and select Connect to a wireless display.
  5. Choose your display device from the list.

The Connect app is a built-in tool designed to simplify wireless display connections.

FAQs

Why does projection stop working after a Windows update?

Windows updates can sometimes overwrite drivers or settings. Reinstalling your display drivers or checking projection settings usually solves this.

Can I project to a TV without Wi-Fi?

Yes, if your TV supports a wired connection like HDMI. Wireless projection requires a Wi-Fi network for device discovery.

What if my PC doesn’t detect the second screen?

Try clicking “Detect” in Display Settings, check cables, restart devices, and update drivers. If it still doesn’t appear, the problem might be hardware-related.

Is Miracast required for wireless projection?

Yes, Miracast is the technology Windows uses for wireless display. Both devices must support Miracast to connect wirelessly.

Can I use projection on a tablet with Windows 11?

Yes, most Windows 11 tablets support projection. Follow the same steps for setting up connections.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and projection still doesn’t work, consider these final options:

  • Check hardware compatibility: Verify that your external display supports the type of projection you want.
  • Use official support: Visit the Microsoft Support website for detailed guides and help.
  • Try a system restore: Restore your PC to a point before the problem started using Windows System Restore.
  • Contact device manufacturer: Sometimes, display or adapter manufacturers provide specific drivers or software.

Conclusion

Fixing projection issues in Windows 11 is usually straightforward once you know where to look. Start with simple checks like cables and shortcut keys, then move to display settings and driver updates.

For wireless projection, enabling the Wireless Display feature and ensuring network compatibility is key.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to troubleshoot most projection problems and get back to sharing your screen effortlessly.

Leave a Reply