Use Four Desktops Simultaneously in Windows

Maximizing Desktop Productivity with Virtual Desktops

Managing screen space has historically been a challenge for computer users. Those familiar with older operating systems, such as Windows 3.1, often recall the need to minimize and arrange windows to fit as many applications as possible onto a single screen.

Although modern operating systems allow for easy switching between open applications using ALT-tab, a dedicated space for specific, frequently accessed information remains valuable.

Introducing Windows SysInternals Desktops

A solution to this challenge is offered by a powerful utility from Windows SysInternals known as Desktops. This tool enables the creation of up to three additional "virtual desktops," effectively expanding your workspace.

Instead of overlapping applications on a single screen, users can seamlessly navigate between four distinct desktops, simulating the experience of working with multiple computers simultaneously.

This functionality allows for a more organized and efficient workflow, dedicating each desktop to specific tasks or applications.

For example, one desktop could be reserved for communication tools like email and messaging.
Another could be dedicated to research and web browsing.
A third might focus on creative work, such as image or video editing.
The final desktop can be used for your primary application.

Desktops provides a significant boost to productivity by reducing clutter and streamlining access to essential applications and information.

Utilizing Sysinternals Virtual Desktops

After downloading and installing the application, the initial step involves configuring the hotkey combination that will facilitate switching between your four virtual workspaces. A preferred method is employing Alt in conjunction with numerical keys, mirroring the functionality of Alt-Tab, but for transitioning between entire desktops rather than individual applications. The desired key sequence can be selected through the options presented in the configuration window.

With this completed, you now have access to four distinct virtual desktops. To illustrate the benefits of this configuration, a demonstration of how these desktops can be organized for enhanced productivity will be provided.

As with any tool offering significant functionality, certain limitations exist. Some applications may exhibit compatibility issues when running across multiple desktops. Windows 7 widgets and certain taskbar applications are examples of this.

A practical solution is to dedicate each desktop to a specific set of commonly used applications. For instance, the first desktop can be designated for news, weather, and informational widgets. This allows for quick access to current events during breaks from work. Simply switch to Desktop 1 to review headlines, and clicking a link will open the full story in a web browser.

Desktop #2 was designed to consolidate various communication applications, including Facebook, Twitter, email, and blog feeds. To efficiently launch these applications simultaneously, a launcher capable of initiating a group of apps was required.

While Launchy and Executor have been previously discussed, the Stock Startup launcher proved most suitable for launching a complete set of applications. This application resides in the taskbar and allows the creation of "packages" containing multiple applications for simultaneous launch.

To utilize this feature, a new package is named, and then "profiles" are added. These profiles define the launch instructions for each application. In this case, Facebook Desktop, Seesmic (Twitter), RSS Bandit, and other applications are configured to launch concurrently.

After saving the package as "screen2", launching all desired applications is as simple as clicking the taskbar icon, selecting "Screen2".

This second desktop is now dedicated to all communication channels – email, RSS feeds, Twitter, Facebook, and more. When communication or social interaction is desired, switching to Desktop 2 provides immediate access.

Desktop #3 is configured with shortcuts to the administrative interfaces of multiple blogs, effectively creating a dedicated blogging workstation. Upon opening this desktop, clicking these shortcuts provides instant access to blogging tools. Switching between desktops allows for seamless transitions between blogging, news updates, and communication.

Finally, Desktop #4 is reserved exclusively for web browsing. Separating focused tasks from communication-heavy desktops minimizes distractions from incoming emails or notifications. This allows for sustained concentration, with transitions to other desktops occurring as needed.

The experience closely resembles having four separate computers, enabling quick and easy access to the necessary tools for any given task. This utility is highly recommended and will continue to be explored for further productivity enhancements.

Have you previously employed multiple desktops on a single computer? What configuration do you find most effective? Please share your insights and ideas in the comments below.