How to Keep Your Computer Screen On: The Ultimate Guide

Whether you're downloading a large file, following a recipe, or trying to keep your status active on Microsoft Teams or Slack, having your computer screen turn off automatically can be frustrating. In this guide, we'll explore the best ways to keep your computer screen on and prevent it from sleeping.

Why Does My Screen Turn Off?

Operating systems like Windows and macOS are designed to save power by turning off the display and putting the computer to sleep after a period of inactivity. While this is great for battery life, it's not always what you want when you're working or waiting for a task to complete.

Method 1: Change System Settings

The most basic way to prevent sleep is to adjust your power settings.

• Windows: Go to Settings > System > Power & sleep. Adjust the "Screen" and "Sleep" timers to "Never".
• Mac: Go to System Settings > Lock Screen. Set "Turn display off on battery/power adapter when inactive" to "Never".

However, changing these settings back and forth can be annoying, and in some corporate environments, these settings might be locked by IT policy.

Method 2: Hardware Mouse Jigglers

A mouse jiggler is a small USB device that simulates mouse movement. It tricks your computer into thinking you are active, thus preventing the screen saver or sleep mode.

While effective, hardware jigglers cost money and require you to plug a foreign device into your USB port, which can be a security risk or blocked by company policies.

Method 3: Software Solutions

There are various software programs you can download to keep your screen awake (like Caffeine or Amphetamine). These sit in your system tray and prevent sleep.

The downside? You have to install software. If you're on a work computer, you might not have admin rights to install new programs.

Method 4: The Best Solution - MyScreenOn

This is where MyScreenOn comes in. It's a free, online tool that uses the browser's built-in Wake Lock API to keep your screen awake.

Why is it better?

• No Installation: It runs entirely in your browser. No downloads, no admin rights needed.
• Safe & Secure: Nothing is installed on your computer. It uses standard web technologies.
• Works Everywhere: Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
• Keeps Teams/Slack Active: By preventing the system from idling, it helps keep your status green on communication apps.

Simply open MyScreenOn.work, click the button, and you're good to go!