The most common causes are misconfigured display settings or applications remembering their last-used monitor. Other factors include outdated graphics drivers or issues with how Windows handles multi-monitor setups. Ensure display settings are correct, and consider updating drivers to resolve the problem. Additionally, prioritize monitors connected via HDMI or DisplayPort over DVI/VGA, as these may be preferred by your system. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
1. Update the System Drivers and Windows to the Latest Build
Updating your system drivers and Windows helps with multi-monitor compatibility and fixes bugs that cause apps to open on the wrong screen. Updates often improve how the system handles and prioritizes monitors.
2. Close the Window in the Windowed Mode on the Desired Display
Position the app correctly before closing it to make sure it opens on the right monitor. Switch to windowed mode to drag the program to your chosen screen, and then close it. This helps most programs remember the last location used.
3. Re-enable the Incorrect Monitor
Sometimes, turning the wrong monitor off and on again can make the system update its display settings. This helps Windows correctly identify the main monitor, fixing issues with where programs open.
4. Set the Main Display to Another Monitor
Changing the main display to another monitor helps reset how Windows decides where to open apps. By making another monitor the main display, the system adjusts its default behavior, which can fix apps opening on the wrong screen and ensure they open where you want.
5. Switch Between the Screens
Sometimes, moving an application between screens can reset its memory. By pressing Win + Shift + Arrow Key, you can quickly move the app to the right screen, helping it recognize the correct display. This method is useful when programs keep opening on the wrong screen, as it changes their screen location without changing system settings.
6. Use the Preview Screen
Using the preview screen helps you see which monitor Windows sees as the main display. By going to display settings, you can check monitor positions, move displays to match their real setup, and make sure the main monitor is set correctly. This is important to make sure everything works as you want.
7. Customize the Taskbar
Adjusting taskbar settings can affect how apps work on multiple monitors. By showing the taskbar only on the main monitor or changing its settings, you can help Windows recognize the main screen, reducing the chances of programs opening on the second monitor.
8. Use GitHub PowerToys
The GitHub project PowerToys allows a power user to streamline and refine their Windows experience to enhance productivity. This utility includes advanced multi-display settings that can address the issue at hand.
9. Create the Application’s Shortcut on the Desired Monitor
Placing the shortcut on the monitor where you want the app to open makes sure it starts on that screen. This method tells Windows to use that monitor, allowing you to manage where apps launch without changing other settings.
10. Change the Application Settings and Use Command Line Arguments
Changing an application’s settings or using command-line options lets you control where programs open. By choosing the display in the app’s preferences or adding commands to make it launch on the main monitor, you can stop it from opening on the wrong screen.
