Keep Screen On in Linux

Use a browser wake lock for a visible task, or change Linux power settings when the whole machine must stay awake.

Ready. Choose a duration and press Start.

Linux screen blanking is controlled by your desktop environment and power manager. A supported browser can temporarily keep the display awake without changing those settings.

For compiles, local AI, servers, or scripts, a screen wake lock alone is not enough: disable automatic suspend for the session or use your distribution's inhibitor tools.

Keep a Linux display awake

  1. 1

    Try the browser tool

    Start the wake lock above and leave the page visible for reading, monitoring, or presenting.

  2. 2

    Check desktop power

    In GNOME or KDE Power settings, extend screen blanking and automatic suspend timers if needed.

  3. 3

    Protect local work

    Use a desktop or command-line sleep inhibitor when a local process must continue even with the screen off.

Frequently asked questions

Does browser wake lock work on Linux?

It works in current browsers that expose the Screen Wake Lock API. Browser, desktop, and power-saving policies can still affect it.

Will it keep a terminal command running?

A screen wake lock targets the display. Prevent automatic system suspend separately for long terminal jobs.

What if my screen still blanks?

Check the browser console for support, turn off battery saver, and review the desktop environment's screen blanking settings.

Sources and further reading