How to Change Windows 11 Lock Screen Background
Windows 11’s lock screen background is the picture you see right before you sign in, and you can easily change it.
Your lock screen image can be a personal photo, a slideshow of your favorite pictures, or the stunning Windows Spotlight images that update daily.
To pick your own picture, you simply go to the Settings app and open the Personalization options. From there, you’ll find a dedicated section for the Lock screen.
Within the Lock screen settings, you can choose a single photo from your computer or set up a slideshow that rotates through a folder of images.
Access Settings, then go to Personalization and Lock screen. You can then select Windows Spotlight for automatic image changes, choose a single Picture, or set up a Slideshow of your own photos.
How to Change Your Lock Screen Background
Changing your Windows 11 lock screen background is a way to show a picture you love before you sign in. This lets you pick a personal photo, set up a slideshow, or use Windows Spotlight for cool automatic pictures from Microsoft. Follow these steps in the Settings app to update your lock screen.
- Press Windows key + I on your keyboard at the same time.
- Click the Start button (Windows icon at the bottom left), then click Settings.
- Or, type Settings into the search box on the taskbar and click the Settings app.
Once you open Settings, look for and click Personalization from the list on the left. Then, click Lock screen on the right.
Here, you’ll see options to pick what shows on your lock screen background. You have three choices:
- Windows Spotlight: Shows beautiful pictures from Microsoft that change daily. It also gives you tips about Windows.
- Picture: Lets you pick one photo you like. You can choose from Windows pictures or any photo saved on your computer.
- Slideshow: Lets you pick a folder of photos. Your lock screen will cycle through them like a slideshow.
If you pick Picture, click the Browse button to find a photo on your computer you want to use. If you choose Slideshow, select a folder with pictures you like.
Troubleshooting Tips
Experiencing issues with your Windows 11 lock screen pictures? A few fixes can help. First, check if Windows Spotlight is turned on if you want Microsoft’s automatic images. If you chose your own photo, make sure the picture file hasn’t moved. You can also revisit Settings > Personalization > Lock screen to confirm your selections.
- Go to Start > Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
- Make sure the option Show lock screen picture on the sign-in screen is turned ON.
This should resolve most problems with your lock screen background.
Summary
- Changing your lock screen background lets you personalize your Windows 11 PC.
- You can use Windows Spotlight, a single picture, or a slideshow of photos.
- Choose photos that make you happy or show your favorite memories!
- Enable the lock screen picture on sign-in to see it before logging in.
- Follow the simple steps above to easily customize your lock screen.
Personalizing your Windows 11 PC is possible with a custom lock screen background. You can choose to use Windows Spotlight for new images, pick a single favorite photo, or create a slideshow of pictures that bring you joy. Ensure the lock screen picture is enabled so you see it before logging in.
Why can't i change the Lock screen on 🪟 Windows 11?
Why can’t I change Lock Screen settings in Windows 11? If your copy of Windows 11 isn’t activated, some personalization settings, like lock screen options, might not be available until you activate the system.
How to make 🪟 Windows 11 Lock screen look like 🪟 Windows 7?
Want Windows 7’s logon screen on Windows 11 (or lock screen, as some call it)? There’s a tool called AuthUX for that. It mimics most of Windows 7’s logon screen features, though it’s only been tested on Win11 versions 21H2-24H2.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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