Are you tired of using the same monitor setup on your Windows computer? Do you want to switch between different displays easily? In this article, we will guide you on how to change your monitor setup and switch active displays in Windows.
Windows provides a simple and straightforward way to switch between active displays. Whether you want to connect an additional monitor or change the primary display, the steps are easy to follow.
Step 1: Connect Your Monitor
The first step is to connect your monitor to your computer. Make sure the monitor is properly connected to the correct port on your computer (usually HDMI or VGA). Once connected, turn on your monitor.
Step 2: Open Display Settings
To change your monitor setup, you need to access the Display Settings in Windows. Right-click on the desktop and select "Display settings" from the context menu. Alternatively, you can open the Start menu, click on the gear icon to open the Settings app, and then select "System" and "Display."

Step 3: Identify Your Monitors
In the Display Settings window, you will see a visual representation of your monitors. Each monitor will be labeled with a number to help you identify them. If you have multiple monitors connected, you can rearrange them by clicking and dragging the monitor icons.

Step 4: Change Your Monitor Setup
Now that you have identified your monitors, you can change your monitor setup. Here are a few options you can choose:
- Extend these displays: This option allows you to use your monitors as one large extended desktop. You can drag windows and applications between monitors.
- Duplicate these displays: This option mirrors your primary display on all connected monitors. Whatever you do on one monitor will be replicated on the others.
- Show only on 1: This option displays content only on your primary monitor and turns off the other monitors.
- Show only on 2: This option displays content only on your secondary monitor and turns off the other monitors.
Select the desired option from the "Multiple displays" dropdown menu.

Step 5: Apply the Changes
After selecting your desired monitor setup, click on the "Apply" button to apply the changes. Windows will make the necessary adjustments, and you will see your new monitor setup in action.
Conclusion
Changing your monitor setup and switching active displays in Windows is a simple process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily connect additional monitors and customize your display settings to suit your needs.
| Reference | Link |
|---|---|
| Display Settings | https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/change-your-display-resolution-69a8bb0c-1e5f-4f38-b7c0-64eceb3d5991 |
| Connect a Second Monitor | https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/connect-a-second-monitor-or-projector-6a6c5b14-8b7d-2e0b-8eac-0e10c9a4ad33 |