Add virtual desktops to Windows with Finestra Virtual Desktops

Finestra Virtual Desktops brings to Windows a useful trick used by many Linux distributions – the concept of virtual Desktops. Rather than adding more physical monitors, you can arrange programs on virtual monitors. This is better than minimising windows as they can be arranged more carefully and left in place.

Finestra Virtual Desktops works with all versions of Windows from XP onwards. Windows XP cannot display some of the more graphically advanced previews that 7 and Vista can but this doesn't detract from how useful this program is.

Installation is simple, although there is an advanced option if you want more control. This gives the option of installing Finestra Virtual Desktops for all users of the computer or just you, and the choice of where to put it. Selecte Start Finestra on the final screen and it starts automatically.

The starting screen is very useful and offers the opportunity to set up all of the software hotkeys and settings.

It is possible to set a different wallpaper for each desktop, although there is a warning that this can cause a slight delay when switching between desktops. It can also move newly opened windows to their proper desktop. This should save time when starting Windows.

By default there are four desktops set up and more can be added if required. They can all be named as well. So you can have one called Web browser and one Music Players to help organise programs.

There are several different ways to switch between different desktops. The most obvious is the Finestra icon in the Taskbar. Clicking on this reveals the list of Desktops. This is one situation where naming the Desktops makes life a lot easier.

An icon appears in the Notification Area that can also be used to switch between desktops as well as access the various program options.

The mouse can also be used to move between desktops. Click and hold at the very edge of the desktop. A small circle will appear. When it has completed, release the mouse button and the new desktop will appear.

If you find it frustrating trying to arrange too many programs onscreen, Finestra Virtual Desktops will make Windows much easier to use.