How to Change Your Desktop Background in Windows 11
You change your desktop background in Windows 11 by navigating to the Personalization settings.
Your desktop background, or wallpaper, is the main image displayed on your screen behind your icons and taskbar. Personalizing this visual element is a simple way to make your PC feel more like your own.
In Windows 11, you can easily set a new background by right-clicking anywhere on your desktop and selecting “Personalize.” This action opens the settings menu where you’ll find the “Background” option.
Within the Background settings, you have choices like selecting a single picture, creating a slideshow of multiple images, or even opting for a solid color. This allows for quick and effective desktop customization.
Right-click your desktop, select “Personalize,” then “Background.” Choose “Picture” or “Slideshow” and browse for your desired image or set up a photo rotation. Your background will update immediately.
How to Change Your Desktop Background Using Your Own Photos
You can easily change your desktop background in Windows 11 using your own photos by opening the Settings app and going to Personalization.
- Open Settings: Press
Windows key + Ion your keyboard at the same time. OR Click the Start button (the Windows icon on the bottom left) and then click Settings.

- Go to Personalization: In the Settings window, click on Personalization from the list on the left side. Then, click on Background on the right side.

- Choose your new background: Under the “Background” section, you’ll see a dropdown menu. Select Picture if you want just one photo, or Slideshow if you want to cycle through multiple photos automatically.

- Select a photo: If you want to use your own photo, click Browse photos and find the picture you want on your computer.

- Pick your picture: Find your photo file (it can be a JPG, PNG, GIF, or BMP file) and click Choose picture. Your desktop background will change right away!

- Adjust how the picture fits: Sometimes pictures don’t fit the screen perfectly. You can choose how the picture fits by selecting options like Fill, Fit, or Stretch from the “Choose a fit for your desktop image” dropdown.

That’s it! Now your desktop will show your favorite photo or a slideshow of pictures you love.
Why Change Your Desktop Background?
- It makes your computer feel more personal and unique.
- You can use any photo you want — family pictures, pets, nature, or artwork.
- A slideshow lets you enjoy lots of pictures without changing them yourself.
- Adjusting the fit makes sure your background looks good on your screen.
- It helps you quickly recognize your computer if you have more than one.
Changing your desktop background in Windows 11 is a simple way to make your computer feel more personal and unique to you.
Summary
Changing your desktop background in Windows 11 is a quick process that lets you personalize your PC with a single picture or a slideshow.
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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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