# Desktops - Sysinternals | Microsoft Learn Desktops v2.01 — Summary By Mark Russinovich — Published: October 12, 2021 What it is * Desktops is a lightweight utility from Sysinternals that provides up to four virtual desktops on Windows. * It lets you organize applications across separate desktops (e.g., email on one, web on another, work apps on a third) to reduce window clutter. How it works * Instead of hiding/showing windows, Desktops creates a separate Windows desktop object for each virtual desktop. * Applications are bound to the desktop object when created; Windows manages which windows are visible when you switch desktops. * You can switch desktops via configured hotkeys or by clicking the tray icon to open a desktop preview/switch window. Key benefits * Very lightweight and less prone to inconsistencies found in other virtual-desktop tools because it relies on Windows desktop objects. * Simple workflow for separating tasks across multiple desktops. Limitations * Windows provides no API to move a window between desktop objects, so Desktops cannot move windows between desktops. * Each desktop requires its own Explorer process for taskbar and Start menu; many tray (notification area) applications will only appear on the first desktop. * There is no way to delete a desktop object; Desktops does not offer a “close desktop” feature (deleting would leave orphaned windows/processes). Recommended exit method is to log off. Compatibility * Client: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 * Server: Windows Server 2008 through Windows Server 2022 Downloads / Run * Download Desktops (199 KB): * Run now from Sysinternals Live: Images * Configuration dialog: * Tray desktop switch window: Notes * Last updated: 12/16/2021 Additional resources (from original page) * MD-102 Explore the Enterprise Desktop - Training: * Microsoft Certified: Azure Virtual Desktop Specialty - Certifications: