It blew my mind when I learned you can set up a laptop as a second monitor on Windows 11
Yes, you can use your laptop’s screen as another monitor, and in this guide, I will show you the steps on Windows 11.
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OnWindows 11, it’s possible to use the laptop’s display (or another Miracast-supported screen) as an external monitor for another computer, and in this guide, I will outline the steps I use for this configuration.
Sometimes, you just need to extract space on the desktop to work with multiple apps, but you cannot expand the canvas unless you have a second monitor. However, if you don’t have that extra monitor, you can use your laptop.
This is possible because of the “Project to this PC” feature available on Windows for devices equipped with Miracast technology. Miracast is a wireless display standard that allows you to project your device’s screen (like a Windows 11 or 10 laptop, tablet, or smartphone) to a larger display, such as a TV or monitor.
In thishow-to guide, I will outline the steps to use the laptop’s display as a second monitor on Windows 11.
How to use a laptop as a wireless display on Windows 11
On Windows 11, you must install the Wireless Display app on both devices participating in the connection. Once that is done, you have to launch the “Wireless Display” app on the laptop, and on the other computer that will be using the laptop as an external display, you have to complete the connection through the “Cast” feature.
Install Wireless Display app
On both devices, to install the Wireless Display app, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you can proceed with the steps to extend your computer’s desktop to your laptop’s screen.
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Connect to laptop display wirelessly
On the laptop, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, leave the app open and continue from the other computer.
On the other computer, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you can start using the laptop as a secondary screen.
Troubleshoot problems
If you cannot get this feature to work, you can follow some troubleshooting steps to resolve most issues, and here’s how:
It’s also important that both devices are connected to the same network. In addition, the devices must have a strong network connection.
Once you complete the steps, you can start using your laptop as a secondary display.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
