how to make laptop not sleep when closed

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We use laptops all the time for work, entertainment, and communication, but sometimes we need them to work even when the lid is closed. You can prevent your laptop from sleeping when closed, whether you’re downloading large files, running background processes, or using it as a makeshift server. Let’s look at step-by-step methods for keeping your laptop awake when closed, ensuring uninterrupted productivity.

Understanding the Importance of Keeping Your Laptop Awake

Before we delve into the techniques, let’s understand why you might need to keep your laptop awake when closed:

  1. Downloads and Uploads: Large file downloads, uploads, or backups can take a significant amount of time. Keeping your laptop awake ensures these processes continue without interruption.
  2. Running Scheduled Tasks: Some tasks, such as system updates, software installations, or automated backups, are scheduled to run during specific times. Keeping your laptop awake guarantees these tasks complete successfully.
  3. Server or Hosting: If you’re using your laptop as a server or hosting a local website, you’d want it to remain operational even when the lid is closed.
  4. Media Playback: You might want to play music or videos with the lid closed, such as during presentations or while using your laptop as a media player.

Now, let’s explore the methods to achieve this.

Method 1: Adjusting Power Settings

  1. Open Control Panel: Type “Control Panel” in the Windows search bar and open it.
  2. Choose Power Options: Click on “Hardware and Sound” and then “Power Options.”
  3. Select Your Power Plan: Choose the power plan you’re currently using and click on “Change plan settings.”
  4. Change Advanced Power Settings: Click on “Change advanced power settings.”
  5. Adjust Lid Close Action: Find the “Lid close action” setting and expand it. Set both “On battery” and “Plugged in” options to “Do nothing.”
  6. Apply Changes: Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Software

  1. Download Insomnia: Search and download a third-party utility called “Insomnia” that prevents your laptop from sleeping when closed.
  2. Install and Run: Install the software and run it on your laptop.
  3. Enable Insomnia: Once launched, enable Insomnia, and your laptop will stay awake even when the lid is closed.

Method 3: Using Command Prompt (Windows)

  1. Open Command Prompt: Type “cmd” in the Windows search bar, right-click on “Command Prompt,” and select “Run as administrator.”
  2. Disable Sleep on Lid Close: In the Command Prompt window, type the command: powercfg -setacvalueindex SCHEME_CURRENT SUB_PROCESSOR 5ca83367-6e45-459f-a27b-476b1d01c936 4. Press Enter.
  3. Apply Changes: Type powercfg -setactive SCHEME_CURRENT and press Enter to apply the changes.

Conclusion

If you follow these simple steps, you’ll keep your laptop awake even when it’s closed, so you’ll stay productive and uninterrupted. These tips will help you take advantage of your laptop’s capabilities, whether you’re managing downloads, running scheduled tasks, or using it for specialized purposes. Using the method that suits your needs and preferences will allow you to have a seamless computing experience even when it’s closed. Power settings for your laptop so you can stay connected and productive.