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Virtual Desktops Coming to Windows 9
It appears that Windows 9 is poised to incorporate virtual desktops, a functionality that has long been available to users of Linux and Mac operating systems.
However, existing versions of Windows – specifically Windows 7 and Windows 8 – already possess underlying capabilities related to virtual desktops.
Hidden Virtual Desktop Features
These features are not immediately apparent, as they are currently concealed within the operating system's core functionality.
The support for virtual desktops actually dates back to Windows NT 4, which included the necessary Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).
Lack of User Interface
Despite the API support, a dedicated user interface for managing virtual desktops was never implemented.
Consequently, enabling this functionality required the use of third-party tools.
Previous Solutions
For example, Microsoft previously offered Virtual Desktops PowerToy for Windows XP, which provided a means to activate and utilize virtual desktops.
This suggests that the inclusion of virtual desktops in Windows 9 will simply bring this functionality to the forefront with a native user interface.
Leveraging Virtual Desktops on Windows
Despite the discontinuation of Microsoft’s Virtual Desktops PowerToy following Windows XP, a viable alternative remains available for contemporary Windows operating systems. This utility is characterized by its compact size, minimal resource consumption, and cost-free availability.
Users are not subjected to payment requirements, intrusive notifications, or complex software interfaces when utilizing this solution. It offers a streamlined experience for managing multiple desktop environments.
The application, Desktops v2.0, can be obtained from Microsoft’s Windows Sysinternals website. Originally a suite of third-party utilities, the Sysinternals collection was acquired by Microsoft due to its exceptional utility and capabilities.
For Windows users seeking advanced system control, familiarization with the Sysinternals tools is highly recommended. These tools predominantly consist of robust system utilities providing detailed insights into system operations, differing from the simplicity of Desktops.
To begin, download the Desktops.zip archive, extract the Desktops.exe executable, and launch it by double-clicking. A concise setup window will appear.
To ensure the tool initiates automatically upon system startup, select the "Run automatically at logon" option.
Utilizing Virtual Desktops
The default keyboard shortcuts for navigating between virtual desktops are Alt+1, Alt+2, Alt+3, and Alt+4, allowing for quick transitions between your four available workspaces. Alternatively, a visual overview of your desktops can be accessed by clicking the icon located in the system tray, providing another method for switching.
Customization of these hotkeys is possible. To modify the key bindings, simply right-click the system tray icon and choose the "Options" setting.
Upon initial access, each virtual desktop is instantiated by Windows. This process involves launching a new instance of Explorer.exe for that specific workspace.
Applications launched on one virtual desktop will remain confined to that desktop environment. They will not be visible or accessible from other desktops via the taskbar or the Alt+Tab shortcut.
To interact with these applications, you must first switch to the desktop on which they are running.
Each virtual desktop maintains an independent system tray. Consequently, icons residing in the system tray of one desktop will not be displayed on others.
If an application, when opened on a particular desktop, generates a system tray icon, that icon will exclusively appear within the system tray of that desktop, and not on any of the others.
Utilizing Virtual Desktops with Windows
To initiate an application window on a designated virtual desktop, the initial step involves navigating to that specific desktop. Following this, launch the application through the taskbar, Start menu, or its respective launch point.
Currently, Windows does not support the direct transfer of open windows between virtual desktops. Relocating a window to an alternative desktop necessitates its closure and subsequent reopening on the desired desktop.
A proactive approach involves configuring dedicated workspaces tailored to particular tasks. This strategy minimizes the need for frequent window adjustments across different virtual desktops.
Consider organizing your workflow by assigning related applications to specific desktops. This can significantly enhance productivity and reduce clutter.
Virtual desktops are a powerful tool for managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Effective utilization requires a bit of planning and adaptation to the workflow.
Best Practices for Desktop Management
- Always launch applications from the desired desktop to avoid unnecessary movement.
- Close and reopen windows when a change of desktop is required.
- Group applications by project or task for optimal organization.
By following these guidelines, users can maximize the benefits of virtual desktops in Windows and streamline their computing experience.
Properly Closing Desktops v2.0
The preferred method for concluding a session of Desktops v2.0 involves logging off and then logging back in. Prior to ceasing use, it is advisable to deactivate the "Run automatically at logon" setting.
Logoff Procedure
A standard logoff ensures all processes are properly terminated. This prevents potential resource conflicts and maintains system stability.
Disabling automatic startup prevents the application from launching unexpectedly upon system boot. This is particularly useful if you only require Desktops v2.0 intermittently.
- Ensure all work is saved before initiating the logoff process.
- Navigate to the logoff option within the operating system.
- Confirm the logoff when prompted.
Following a logoff, you can then log back into Desktops v2.0 as needed. This approach provides a clean and controlled session management experience.
Remember to disable the "Run automatically at logon" option to prevent unintended launches. This setting can be found within the application's configuration or settings menu.
Understanding the Constraints of Sysinternals Desktops
A discussion regarding Sysinternals Desktops often leads to a comparison with other virtual desktop solutions, such as Dexpot. The official download page for Desktops v2.0 clearly outlines the tool’s inherent limitations.
While alternative virtual desktop applications appear to offer greater functionality, they often achieve this through emulation rather than true virtualization. Many desktop managers available for download fall into this category.
How Emulation Works
The majority of these tools operate by strategically minimizing and maximizing windows to simulate the presence of multiple desktops. This approach doesn't establish genuine virtual desktops.
Users who have previously utilized such software may have encountered instances of windows unexpectedly minimizing or maximizing during desktop transitions. This is a direct consequence of the emulation technique.
In contrast, Desktops v2.0 leverages the native capabilities integrated within Windows itself. This results in a more streamlined and potentially more stable experience, free from the complexities of emulation.
Despite its limitations, this approach can provide a more robust and dependable virtual desktop solution compared to many third-party alternatives.
Looking Ahead
It is anticipated that Microsoft will eventually enhance this functionality within future Windows releases. A future version, such as Windows 9, could incorporate features like seamless window movement between virtual desktops and an improved user interface.
Currently, Sysinternals Desktops represents the most direct method for accessing the native virtual desktop support that has been a component of Windows since its inception with Windows NT 4 in 1996.
