You can unplug a monitor while Windows is running, but you should do so with caution. Windows is designed to handle changes in display configurations to some extent, and it should automatically adjust to the new display setup when you unplug a monitor. However, there are some things to keep in mind:
Active Applications: Any open applications or windows that were on the unplugged monitor will likely be moved to the remaining monitor. You might need to manually drag them back to the main screen or reorganize them as needed.
Resolution and Display Settings: Unplugging a monitor might temporarily affect your display resolution and settings. Windows will typically revert to a default resolution for the remaining monitor. You can adjust these settings in the Display settings panel.
Graphics Drivers: It's important to have up-to-date graphics drivers installed. This can help ensure a smoother transition when unplugging or plugging in monitors.
Multiple Displays Settings: If you use multiple displays regularly, you can configure how Windows handles them in the "Display settings." You can choose to extend, duplicate, or use only one display.
Hotkey Shortcuts: Some graphics drivers and software offer hotkey shortcuts for quickly changing display configurations. These can be handy if you often switch between different monitor setups.
Safe Removal: If your monitor is connected via USB (e.g., a USB-C monitor), it's a good practice to use the "Safely Remove Hardware" feature in Windows before unplugging it to prevent potential data loss or hardware issues.
External GPUs: If you're using an external GPU connected to a monitor, unplugging it might cause a temporary disruption, but Windows should recover. However, it's still best to shut down your computer before disconnecting external GPUs for safety.In summary, while you can unplug a monitor while Windows is running, it’s advisable to do so with caution and be prepared for some minor adjustments after the change. If you frequently switch between different display configurations, consider configuring your display settings in a way that makes transitions smoother for your specific needs.