How to Keep Your Laptop Awake with the Lid Closed in Windows 11
Keeping your laptop awake when the lid is closed is useful, especially if you’re using an external monitor or if you want your processes to continue running without interruption. By default, closing the laptop lid puts the device into sleep mode to conserve power, but you can change this setting in Windows 11. Note that keeping the laptop running with the lid closed can increase power consumption and potentially lead to overheating if not ventilated properly. Here’s how to adjust the settings:
Steps to Prevent Your Laptop from Sleeping When the Lid is Closed
- Access Control Panel:
- Click on the Start button ⊞ and type “Control Panel,” then select it from the search results. This method provides access to various system settings and controls.
- Navigate to Power Options:
- In the Control Panel, click on “Hardware and Sound,” and then select “Power Options.” This area allows you to manage how your laptop uses power.
- Adjust Lid Closure Settings:
- Click on “Choose what closing the lid does,” found on the left sidebar in the Power Options menu. This setting lets you decide what actions your laptop takes when the lid is closed.
- Change the Settings:
- Under the “When I close the lid” section, you will see two dropdown menus: one for when the laptop is running on battery and another for when it is plugged in.
- Set both or one of these to “Do nothing” to prevent your laptop from going to sleep when you close the lid. It’s recommended to apply this setting at least for when the laptop is plugged in to minimize battery drain and potential overheating risks.
- Save Your Changes:
- Click “Save changes” to apply the new settings. Your laptop will now remain awake even when the lid is closed, allowing continued operation without interruption.
By following these steps, you can keep your laptop running even with the lid closed, which is particularly useful for those who use external displays or need their laptop to continue performing tasks while mobile. Be mindful of the potential for increased battery usage and ensure your laptop is in a well-ventilated area to avoid overheating.
