By default, most laptops running Windows 11 go into sleep, hibernate, or shut down mode when you close the lid. This is a smart power-saving feature — but what if you want your laptop to keep running even with the lid closed?
For example, you might want to:
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Connect your laptop to an external monitor while using it closed (a.k.a. clamshell mode).
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Run downloads, updates, or long processes without interruption.
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Keep music or media playing with the lid closed.
Luckily, you can change this behavior easily from Windows 11 settings. Let’s go step by step.
Method 1: Change Lid Close Action in Power Settings
Steps:
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Open Control Panel
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Press Windows + R, type
control, and press Enter.
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Go to Power Options
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In Control Panel, set View by to Large icons or Small icons.
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Click Power Options.
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Choose What Closing the Lid Does
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On the left sidebar, click Choose what closing the lid does.
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Change Settings
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Under When I close the lid, select your preferred action:
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Do nothing → Keeps your laptop running with the lid closed.
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Sleep → Default setting (pauses your work).
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Hibernate → Saves state and powers down further.
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Shut down → Turns off completely.
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Apply Changes
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Click Save changes.
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Now, when you close your laptop lid, it will stay on without going to sleep.
Method 2: Adjust Settings in Windows 11 Settings App
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Navigate to System > Power & battery.
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Under Related settings, click Additional power settings.
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This will open the classic Power Options window → continue from Step 3 in Method 1 above.
Method 3: Keep Laptop Running While Using an External Monitor
If you want to use your laptop in closed-lid mode with an external display:
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Connect your laptop to an external monitor via HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C.
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Attach a keyboard and mouse (USB or Bluetooth).
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Follow Method 1 to set “When I close the lid” → Do nothing.
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Close the lid. Your external monitor will stay active, and your laptop will keep running.
Important Considerations
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Heat management: Laptops release heat through the keyboard and vents. Keeping the lid closed for long sessions can cause overheating if ventilation is poor. Place your laptop on a cooling pad or stand.
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Battery usage: If running on battery, leaving the laptop on with the lid closed will drain it faster. Consider plugging it into power.
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Privacy/security: Closing the lid usually locks the screen. With this change, your laptop remains unlocked unless you set it to auto-lock.
Conclusion
With just a quick change in Power Options, you can keep your laptop running even when the lid is closed. This is especially useful for external monitor setups, long downloads, or media playback. Just remember to manage heat and security while using this feature.