How to Change Windows 11 Lock Screen Background

This article explains how to customize the Lock screen on Windows 11

Windows 11 includes a feature called Windows Spotlight, which showcases stunning photography from around the world while your computer is locked. On the lock screen, Windows will start displaying the background settings that you choose.

Customizing the lock screen background in Windows 11 allows you to personalize your computer, making it feel more unique to you. This easy process can significantly enhance your overall user experience.

Choosing a favorite photo or a slideshow of images for your lock screen allows you to create a more inviting and visually appealing environment when you log in to your computer.

How to add a lock screen background

Windows 11 has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. Everything can be done, from system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows from its System Settings pane.

To get to System Settings, you can use the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start ==> Settings, as shown in the image below:

Alternatively, you can use the search box on the taskbar and search for Settings. Then select to open it.

The Windows Settings pane should look similar to the image below. In Windows Settings, click Personalization, and select Lock screen on the right pane of your screen, shown in the image below.

On the lock screen, you can set the background to a favorite photo or a slideshow of images you want to display. You have three options to choose from for images to display.

Windows spotlight: shows beautiful photography automatically on your lock screen. It updates daily with images from around the globe and shows tips and tricks for getting the most out of Windows.

Picture: shows images that are included with Windows as well as custom images you select to display.

Slideshow: shows album slideshows of your images to display on your lock screen.

By default, Windows Spotlight is chosen to display images on your lock screen. Spotlight images won’t display if your account doesn’t allow it or your PC is rebooted. For the spotlight to show images, it must be turned on, and you need to be signed into Windows first.

Press the Windows logo key  + L to lock your device to test whether the Windows Spotlight works correctly. The Windows spotlight image should appear on the lock screen.

When selecting a picture for your lock screen, you can choose recent images or browse through your system’s photos to find one you want to use.

Open your photo album and choose the slideshow you want to display on the lock screen.

Troubleshoot

If you don’t see the Windows spotlight image when you sign in, select the Start button, then select Settings  > Personalization  > Lock screen. Then, ensure the Show lock screen picture on the sign-in screen is turned on.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

• Personalizing your Windows 11 lock screen enhances your computer experience.
• You can choose between three background options: Windows Spotlight, Picture, or Slideshow.
• Custom images or favorite photos can create a welcoming environment.
• Enabling notifications on the lock screen helps you stay informed of updates and schedules.
• Following the simple steps provided makes the customization process easy and accessible.
• Enjoy a more tailored user experience by taking advantage of the lock screen features in Windows 11.