Having multiple windows open in Windows 11 can be confusing at times, and navigating between them means you might get lost in a sea of other open apps — all because you need to scroll down another window.
Well, what if you don’t need to click a window to scroll down? This is where background scrolling comes in, and it’s possible that it has already been activated on your PC without you even realizing it. It allows you to scroll through windows that are inactive on the screen, so you can strategically place windows on top of each other and keep scrolling away, even though it’s not the apps in focus.
There are plenty of Windows 11 tricks that are hidden in plain sight, and they are here to make your life easier.
This is correct. You may already have background scrolling turned on, which means you can stop minimizing windows or apps just for scrolling.
For example, all you have to do is open two windows (like Google Chrome and Notepad) and place them anywhere you see fit on your screen. As you type in Notepad, simply move your cursor over Google Chrome and you’ll be able to scroll without having to click to activate it. This is incredibly useful when you have a selection of windows open but only need to work on one.
If this function does not work, you may need to turn it on in the settings:
1. Open Settings.
2. In the left sidebar, click Bluetooth and devices.
3. Go to “Hover windows that are inactive when hovered.” Toggle the switch to turn it on.
Here you are. You will now be able to leave windows or apps open and continue scrolling even if they are inactive.
Looking for more tips and tricks that you may not be aware of? Check out how to access the secret Start Menu in Windows 11. And for more simple and effective Windows 11 tricks to make your work life simpler, look no further.