- Windows 11 offers several ways to customize the background, from still images to presentations.
- You can adjust the background based on the resolution and use different options for multiple desktops and monitors.
- There are direct and alternative methods to change the background, such as Settings, File Explorer, and certain web browsers.
Change wallpaper on Windows 11 It's one of the fastest and most visual ways to personalize your PC and truly identify with it. The variety of options, from stunning landscapes to family photos to solid colors, lets you tailor the experience to your style and mood. Plus, Windows 11 has improved over previous versions, incorporating new features and greater flexibility to select and adjust backgrounds on the desktop and in the lock screen.
In this article we explain Step by step how to change and customize the start screen in Windows 11 using all available methods: from Settings, File Explorer to the browser. We will also review how to configure the lock screen, multi-screen and multi-desktop options, plus recommended sites for downloading high-quality images. All with Tricks and tips to get the most out of customizing your PC.
Options to change the wallpaper in Windows 11
The background customization options in Windows 11 have been expanded and refined. You can choose between a still image, a slideshow, a solid color, or featured Windows content.Each option has distinct advantages. Below, we explain each to help you choose the one that best suits you.
Single image: Allows you to select a specific photo as your desktop background. Windows 11 offers default images, but you can also search your device for personal images or images downloaded from the internet.
Solid color: Ideal if you prefer simplicity, as you can choose a solid color to reduce distractions and achieve a cleaner environment.
Slide presentation: The option to automatically change the background using a folder with multiple images. Windows will rotate through them as often as you choose, creating a slideshow. This is useful if you have many favorite photos and want variety without the hassle.
Windows Featured Content: If you like new features, you can enable this feature to have your background change daily with images curated by Microsoft from around the world.
Step by Step: How to Change Your Desktop Background
To change your background, you'll primarily use the Settings app, although there are alternative methods as well. Here are the essential steps:
- Access to configuration: Right-click on the desktop and select "Personalize," or go to Settings and navigate to "Personalization."
- Select 'Background': Within customization, click on the "Background" option to access the different options.
- Choose the type of background: Use the drop-down menu to choose between 'Picture', 'Solid Color', 'Slideshow', or 'Windows Highlights'.
- Select the image: If you select 'Image', you can choose a recent image or browse your files to select any photo.
- Customize the layout: Choose how you want the image to fit the screen; options include fill, fit, stretch, tile, center, or span multiple screens (ideal for multi-monitor setups).
Looking for a quick way? You can also right-click any image in Explorer and select "Set as Desktop Background." The change will immediately apply without any complications.
Advanced background adjustment options
Windows 11 Allows you to adjust how the image is displayed relative to the resolution. This helps prevent distortions or unwanted sidebars. Key options include:
- Fill out: The image fills the entire screen, although it may be cropped at the edges.
- Adjust: The image maintains its proportions, adapting to the screen size and leaving bars if necessary.
- To stretch: The image fits completely, although it may be distorted if it is not in the correct proportion.
- Mosaic: Repeat the same image several times to cover the entire surface, useful with small images.
- Center: The image is placed in the center, leaving space if the resolution is lower than the screen.
- To encompass (Span): For multi-monitor setups, it allows an image to fill the entire screen like a wall mural.
Change the background using File Explorer
It is not always necessary to access Settings. From File Explorer You can set any image as a background quickly and easily. Also, if you want to learn about different options for customizing your background in Windows 11, we recommend visiting How to customize the wallpaper in Windows 11.
- Right click over the image and select “Set as desktop background.”
- You can also use the Explorer toolbar to set an image as your background, especially if you've selected multiple photos or are using Windows 11.
This method is very practical, especially if you have just downloaded a photo and want to apply it immediately.
Set the slideshow as wallpaper
The "Presentation" function allows you to create a rotating sequence of images that automatically change on your desktop. It's ideal if you want dynamic backgrounds or can't decide on just one photo. If you want more ideas on dynamic backgrounds, visit How to set a live wallpaper for my Windows 10 lock screen.
To use it, create a folder with the desired images. From "Background" in Personalization, choose "Slideshow" and select the folder. Configure how often the images will change and whether you want them to be displayed in random or sequential order.
This way, your background will be varied and vibrant, without having to manually change it every time.
How to choose the ideal setting for your screens
If you have multiple monitors If you're using virtual desktops, Windows 11 offers options for managing different backgrounds on each screen. The Slideshow feature also allows different images to be displayed on each monitor, increasing customization. For more details, visit dual monitor wallpaper for Windows 10.
You can even assign different backgrounds to each virtual desktop, although these options may be somewhat limited and depend on future updates.
Customize the Windows 11 lock screen
The lock screen, in addition to protecting your device when it's inactive, can reflect your personal style. Set a still image, slideshow, or featured content from Windows so that each login is visually different. To do this, you can consult .
For that:
- Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
- Select the background type (Picture, Presentation, or Windows Featured Content).
- Add a folder for slides or choose a specific image.
You can also display the same image on both the lock screen and login screen, achieving visual consistency. You can also enable widgets like weather, news, email, and notifications to quickly access relevant information before logging in. From Settings, select which apps you want to display on the lock screen.
Quick fixes if you can't change your wallpaper
Some users are having trouble changing their background in Windows 11. This is often due to system restrictions, activation issues, or bugs. To fix this:
- Verify that Windows is activated. Lack of activation limits customization features.
- In work or school environments, administrators may have restricted these changes. Check the policies or contact the person in charge.
- If the problem persists, restart Windows Explorer or create a new user profile to rule out configuration errors.
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