How to activate full screen mode in applications and browsers
Most modern web browsers and apps They have an integrated option to activate full screen mode. Normally, it is enough to press the key F11 on the keyboard to make the app or browser expand to fill the entire screen. If this doesn't work, you can look in the application's menus or settings for an option called "Full Screen" or similar.
Some examples of how to activate full screen mode in popular applications are:
- Google Chrome: Press F11 or click the three dots in the upper right corner and select “Full Screen”.
- Mozilla Firefox: Press F11 or click the “View” menu and select “Full Screen”.
- Microsoft PowerPoint: Press F5 or click the “Slide Show” button in the “Slide Show” tab.

For an immersive gaming experience use Game Mode on Windows 10 and 11
Windows 10 and 11 have a feature called "Game mode" which optimizes system performance and automatically activates full screen mode in supported games. To activate Game Mode:
- Open the Windows “Settings” app.
- Go to “Games” and then “Game Mode”.
- Turn on the "Game Mode" option.
Once activated, Game Mode will take care of optimize the gaming experience and minimize distractions, allowing you to enjoy your favorite titles in full screen.
Create a custom keyboard shortcut to quickly toggle full screen mode
For those who wish to have a quick access to full screen mode, a custom keyboard shortcut can be created by following these steps:
- Right click on the desktop and select “New” > “Shortcut”.
- In the “Item Location” field, type:
C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe /c "start /max % 1" - Click "Next" and give the shortcut a name, such as "Full Screen."
- Right click on the created shortcut, select “Properties” and go to the “Shortcut” tab.
- In the “Shortcut key” field, press the desired key combination, e.g. Ctrl + Alt + F.
- Click "Apply" and then "OK."
Now, pressing the chosen key combination will activate full screen mode. in the active application or window.
How to exit full screen mode in Windows
When you want return to normal view After you have activated full screen mode, there are several ways to do it, depending on the application or the method used to activate the function:
- press the key F11 o I on the keyboard.
- Click the “Exit Full Screen” or “Restore” button that appears when you move the cursor to the top of the screen.
- Use the custom keyboard shortcut created above, if one has been configured.
- Double-click the video or media to toggle between full screen mode and normal view.
It is important to remember that the way to exit full screen mode may vary slightly depending on the application or web browser being used.

Troubleshoot full screen mode in Windows
Sometimes there may arise problems when trying to turn full screen mode on or off on Windows. Below are some solutions for the most common problems:
- The app or game does not display in full screen: Check that the app or game supports full screen mode. Check the application's documentation or settings to make sure the option is enabled.
- Full screen mode turns off unexpectedly: Make sure there are no other apps or pop-ups. that may be interfering with full screen mode. Disable notifications or programs that may be causing this problem.
- Content appears distorted or does not fit correctly on the screen: Check that the screen resolution and scaling settings are set correctly. Adjust the resolution or scaling in Windows display settings to fix this issue.
- Custom keyboard shortcut not working: Check that the shortcut and key combination are set correctly. Make sure there are no conflicts with other keyboard shortcuts or applications that may be interfering with its operation.
If problems persist after trying these solutions, consider update graphics card drivers or seek additional assistance from the application's support resources or hardware manufacturer.
No distractions: Enjoy multimedia content in full screen
Full screen mode is ideal for Immerse yourself in movies, series or videos without distracting interface elements. Most media players, such as Windows Media Player or VLC Media Player, offer the option to activate full screen by double-clicking the video or by pressing the F key on the keyboard.
Also, streaming services like Netflix, YouTube or HBO Max have a dedicated button to activate full screen mode, allowing you to enjoy their content in an immersive way and without distractions.
Full screen mode in Windows is a powerful tool that allows enjoy multimedia content, games and applications in an immersive way. By following the steps and solutions presented in this article, users will be able to enable, customize, and troubleshoot issues related to full screen mode, thereby improving their overall operating system experience.
I am Sebastián Vidal, a computer engineer passionate about technology and DIY. Furthermore, I am the creator of tecnobits.com, where I share tutorials to make technology more accessible and understandable for everyone.