Turning on Inactive Window Scroll

Written by Eric Wyatt (last updated April 5, 2021)

1

Typically, when I am working on my computer I have multiple windows open. In the past, I have found that if I need to scroll through one window while keeping a specific window active, I could not scroll through another window without making it active. If I hovered over another window and started to scroll down the active window would start to scroll.

This can be frustrating as you need to scroll back to the active window and figure out how to see what's needed in the other window without making it active. Fortunately, Windows 10 allows you to scroll inactive windows with a simple setting change. To turn this feature on, just follow these steps:

  1. Click on the Start button. Windows displays the Start screen.
  2. Click on the Settings icon (it looks like a small gear). You should now see the Settings dialog box.
  3. Click on Devices. This will present you with the Devices section of the Settings dialog box.
  4. Click on Mouse. This will open the settings for the mouse.
  5. Click on the toggle under Scroll Inactive Windows when I Hoover Over Them. (See Figure 1.)

    6. Figure 1. Turn on Scroll inactive windows when I hover over them.

  6. Close the Settings dialog box, the setting will take effect immediately.

Now with this setting turned on when you have more than one window open, and you hover over an inactive window you can scroll through that window without scrolling in the active window. This setting has saved me time and honestly a bit of frustration.

 This tip (5287) applies to Windows 10.

Author Bio

Eric Wyatt

Eric Wyatt is a swell guy (or so his friends tell him). He is a formally trained designer and branding expert, bringing a wide range of skills to his Tips.Net articles. ...

MORE FROM ERIC

Quick Screen Capture

Taking screen captures on your computer has been available on Windows computers for a while. Windows 10, however, allows ...

Discover More

Launching Your Favorite Apps Using the Windows Key

You can use a lesser-known shortcut to launch your favorite apps. Using the Windows key along with a number key can open ...

Discover More

More Powerful Notes

Sticky Notes in Windows 10 is a helpful app. When you go beyond just a note, it's even more helpful.

Discover More
More WindowsTips

Adjusting How Quickly Your Keyboard Responds

Does your keyboard seem a bit sluggish or a bit too quick when you hold down keys? You can adjust how the keyboard ...

Discover More

Customizing the Start Menu

Windows gives you the ability to customize exactly what appears on your Start menu. Here's how you get to the controls ...

Discover More

Customizing the SendTo Menu

The SendTo menu can be used to perform some handy tasks with files. By following the steps in this tip you'll be able to ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 7 - 2?

2021-04-06 22:53:49

Les

This is a great tip. I had the option selected, but didn't know this feature existed. Thanks!

Newest Tips
Links and Sharing
OUR COMPANY
OUR PRODUCTS
OUR SITES
 

Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.