Get Virtual Desktops on Windows with Dexpot
The Advantage of Virtual Desktops and Dexpot for Windows
For those accustomed to the Linux operating system, virtual desktops are often an indispensable tool. They provide an effective method for streamlining and organizing one’s digital workspace.
Dexpot aims to replicate this functionality within the Windows environment, offering a comprehensive solution with both visually appealing 3D effects and a high degree of personalization.
Windows' Historical Limitations with Virtual Desktops
Historically, Windows has lagged behind other operating systems in its native support for virtual desktops. The platform's initial offerings in this area were often considered less refined.
Even Microsoft’s own Virtual Desktop Manager, initially released as a power toy, presented certain usability challenges and lacked the polish of more established solutions.
Dexpot addresses these shortcomings by providing a robust and feature-rich virtual desktop experience for Windows users.
Key Features and Benefits
- Enhanced Workspace Organization: Effectively manage multiple tasks and applications across distinct virtual spaces.
- 3D Visual Effects: Enjoy a more dynamic and visually engaging desktop experience.
- Extensive Customization: Tailor the application to suit individual preferences and workflow requirements.
By offering these capabilities, Dexpot empowers Windows users to achieve a level of desktop organization previously more readily available on Linux-based systems.
Getting Started with Dexpot
Dexpot is available for use without cost, however, this is limited to non-commercial, personal applications. Individuals utilizing the software within a professional capacity, such as freelancers, will require a license after a 30-day trial period.
The software is straightforward to install and configure for enhanced productivity.
During the installation process, Dexpot will prompt you to install an additional toolbar. It is important to deselect this option if you do not wish to include it.
Initiating Dexpot
Should you not have initiated Dexpot through the installation process, access is readily available via your Start menu or desktop shortcut. Upon launching, a Dexpot icon will appear within your taskbar. Positioning your mouse cursor over this icon reveals previews representing your configured virtual desktops.
A convenient right-click menu is integrated into each window’s title bar by Dexpot. This allows for streamlined window management, including the ability to transfer windows between desktops and designate them as always-on-top.
Following the relocation of a window, it will become visible on the designated virtual desktop.
Desktop switching can be accomplished by clicking the Dexpot icon, or by directly selecting a desktop’s preview. Observe that the taskbar intelligently filters applications, displaying only those currently open on the active desktop. This feature minimizes clutter and enhances focus.
Exploring Virtual Desktop Functionality
Additional options can be accessed by performing a right-click on the Dexpot icon located in the system tray.
The Window Catalogue feature presents a comprehensive display of all currently open windows across each desktop.
Navigation between these virtual desktops is facilitated through the use of arrow keys positioned at the screen's upper edge.
Selecting the Full-Screen Preview option generates a full-screen grid visualization of your configured virtual desktops.
A simple click on a desired desktop within the grid will instantly switch your focus to that workspace.
Desktop Viewing Options
Dexpot offers several distinct methods for visualizing and transitioning between your virtual desktop environments.
- Desktop Manager: Provides a centralized control panel.
- Desktop Preview: Offers a quick overview of each desktop's contents.
- Desktop Windows: Displays a list of open windows per desktop.
These options – Desktop Manager, Desktop Preview, and Desktop Windows – each present a unique approach to managing and navigating your virtual desktops.
Users can choose the viewing style that best suits their workflow and preferences.
Customization Options
Dexpot offers a wide array of configuration possibilities. Each virtual desktop can be personalized with a unique background image. Furthermore, the taskbar can be hidden for a cleaner interface.
Automatic application launching and other customized actions are also available for each desktop environment.
Hotkey Configuration
The Settings window allows for complete hotkey customization. By default, the Alt+# key combination is used to navigate to a specific desktop.
Additionally, Shift+Alt+# can be utilized to move an active window to a designated desktop.
Desktop switching can also be triggered by moving the mouse cursor to the edge of the screen, offering an alternative input method.
Plugins and Extras
The Plugins and Extras section features the Dexcube plugin. This plugin introduces a 3D cube-style effect, reminiscent of Compiz, during desktop transitions.
While visually appealing, the 3D effect may slightly increase the time required to switch between desktops.
The Dexcube effect can be a visually impressive feature to showcase. However, users should consider the potential performance impact on desktop switching speed.
Establishing Rules for Application Management
For consistent placement of particular applications or windows onto designated desktops, rules can be established within Dexpot to automate this process. The "Create Rule" function, accessible through the Dexpot menu, facilitates this configuration.
Rules are defined by matching one or more specified criteria. These conditions can include the executable file (.exe) of the program or the specific title of the window.
Following the definition of matching conditions, one or more actions can be applied. These actions might involve relocating the window to a particular desktop or configuring it to remain consistently on top of other windows.
A comprehensive overview of the newly created rule is then presented by Dexpot for review.
We are interested in your opinion regarding Dexpot. Do you find it to be a suitable virtual desktop solution, or do you favor an alternative? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.