How to Get Virtual Desktops on Windows XP

Virtual desktops are a powerful tool which enhances your multitasking capability. It allows you to run multiple desktops simultaneously and switch between them seamlessly. Each desktop is independent and can run its own set of applications. It is a great way to separate out applications and reduce clutter on the taskbar. Microsoft unfortunately did not include this feature by default in Windows XP but later released a PowerToy to incorporate this functionality.

Step 1 : Download Deskman PowerToy

First you need to download the Deskman PowerToy from Microsoft’s site and then download it on your PC. The PowerToy can be found on Microsoft’s site here.

Step 2 : Install the PowerToy

Launch the setup of the PowerToy downloaded. Select the “Complete” install option during installation. It would hardly take a few moments before the setup is complete.

Step 3 :Launch Desktop Manager

Once the software has been installed on your PC, we need to launch it. Right click on the taskbar and select Toolbars. In the next pop-up menu you would select the Desktop Manager option. This will launch the desktop manager toolbar. The green button gives you a quick preview of all the four desktops. While the numbered buttons rom 1 to 4 are used to switch between the multiple desktops.

Step 4 : Configure options

You can set shortcuts keys but right clicking on MSVDM and selecting “Configure shortcut keys”. There are various others options which you can tweak such as animations etc.