How to cast Windows 11 to another computer’s monitor

On Windows 11, connecting a second monitor to your laptop allows you to expand the desktop canvas to work with multiple applications at the same time, improving productivity. However, if you don’t have an external display, Windows 11 includes the Cast feature to connect wirelessly to another computer as a second monitor.

You can use the feature to expand the desktop canvas to improve multitasking without purchasing another monitor. You can do a presentation or anything else that may require a second monitor.

In this guide, you will learn the steps to connect to a wireless display on Windows 11.

Cast desktop to wireless monitor on Windows 11

If you want to connect a laptop or desktop computer to another device to use it as an external monitor, you first need to set up the Wireless Display app on the device acting as a secondary display, and then you need to use the Cast feature on the source computer.

Install Wireless Display app

On the computer that will work as the external display, use these steps:

1. Open Settings on Windows 11.

2. Click on Apps.

3. Click the Optional features tab.

4. Click the View features button.

   

5. Search the Wireless Display feature.

6. Check the feature.

7. Click the Next button.

   

8. Click the Install button.

9. Open Start.

10. Search for Connect and click the top result to open the app.

Once you complete the steps, leave the Wireless Display app open, and use the Cast feature on the devices to project the desktop.

If the app shows a message that the computer doesn’t support “Miracast,” you won’t be able to extend the desktop to this computer.

Cast desktop to another computer

On the computer that you want to add a second display on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.

2. Click on System.

3. Click the Display tab.

4. Click the Multiple display setting.

5. Click the Connect button for the “Connect to wireless display” setting.

   

6. Select the computer acting as the external monitor.

   

7. (Optional) Check the “Allow mouse, keyboard, touch, and pen input from this device” option to control the computer from the other device. 

   

Alternatively, you can also use the Windows key + A keyboard shortcut to open the Quick Settings flyout, click the Cast button, and select the computer that will act as a secondary display.

Of course, the feature will only work as long as the devices are in the same network and they include support for Miracast.

If you want to disconnect from the external monitor experience, use the Windows key + A keyboard shortcut to open the Quick Settings flyout, click the Cast button, and click the Disconnect button.