Hi Mallori,
I understand the need to simplify the desktop experience. In Windows 11, the multi‑desktop (Virtual Desktop) feature is built into the system, so there isn’t a direct option to fully disable it from Settings.
However, you can effectively prevent or minimize its use with the following methods:
Prevent creation of additional desktops
1, If you’re using Pro version:
- Press Win + R > type
gpedit.msc> Enter - Go to: User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer
- Enable “Block users from creating virtual desktops”
- Run
gpupdate /forcein Command Prompt (Admin)
2, For Home edition:
- Open Registry Editor (regedit)
- Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies - Create key Explorer (if missing) - DWORD: NoDesktopCreation = 1
Disclaimer: Generally, modifying registry subkeys or work group is intended for advanced users, administrators, and IT Professionals. It can help fix some problems, however, serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Therefore, make sure that you follow these steps carefully. For further protection, back up the registry before you modify it. Then, you can restore the registry if a problem occurs. For more information about how to back up and restore the registry, click How to back up and restore the registry in Windows - Microsoft Support to view the article.
Let me know if you need further assistance, feel free to ask me by clicking "Add Comment" or "Add Answer" if you cannot add comment so your response will be visible. Thanks for your effort.
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