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    Windows Guides
    Intermediate
    1 min read 5 stepsFebruary 5, 2026Verified February 2026

    How to Connect an External Monitor on Windows

    Extend or duplicate your display by connecting a second monitor to your Windows PC.

    In this guide (5 steps):

    1. 1.Connect the cable
    2. 2.Detect the display
    3. 3.Choose display mode
    4. 4.Arrange your displays
    5. 5.Adjust resolution and scale
    1

    Connect the cable

    ~15s
    Use HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, or VGA to connect your monitor to your PC or laptop.
    2

    Detect the display

    ~15s
    Windows usually detects it automatically. If not, go to SettingsSystemDisplayDetect.
    3

    Choose display mode

    ~15s
    Press ⊞ Win+P to choose: Duplicate (same on both), Extend (separate screens), or Second screen only.
    4

    Arrange your displays

    ~15s
    In Display Settings, drag the monitor icons to match their physical arrangement on your desk.
    5

    Adjust resolution and scale

    ~15s
    Select each display and set the appropriate resolution and scaling percentage.

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    intermediate
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    Official Resources

    Microsoft SupportHow-To Geek — WindowsGCFGlobal — Windows Basics

    Sources used to create and verify this guide. View all sources →

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    How to Connect an External Monitor on Windows — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure