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You are here: Home / Guides / How to Change Lock Screen on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Change Lock Screen on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

posted on February 20, 2025

Changing the lock screen on Windows 11 is a simple process that allows users to personalize their computer’s appearance. You can choose from a variety of images or use one of your own. To change the lock screen, navigate to the ‘Settings’ menu, select ‘Personalization’, and then ‘Lock screen’. From there, you can pick an image or slideshow to display. This quick customization can refresh your PC’s look and make it feel more personal.

How to Change Lock Screen on Windows 11

Customizing your lock screen not only enhances the aesthetics of your computer but also makes it feel more like your own. Follow these straightforward steps to change your lock screen on Windows 11.

Step 1: Open Settings

First, click on the Start button and select ‘Settings’.

Opening the Settings app is the initial step to accessing all personalization options. You can also press the Windows key + I for a shortcut.

Step 2: Click on Personalization

Next, find and click on the ‘Personalization’ option from the list.

Personalization is where you can modify various aspects of your Windows 11 appearance. This is where you’ll find options for wallpapers, themes, and more.

Step 3: Select Lock Screen

Within the Personalization menu, click on ‘Lock screen’.

The lock screen settings allow you to manage the image that appears before signing into your account. You can choose from default options or upload your own photo.

Step 4: Choose Background

Now, decide whether you want a ‘Picture’ or a ‘Slideshow’ as your lock screen background.

Selecting ‘Picture’ allows you to choose a single image, while ‘Slideshow’ lets you pick a folder of images that will rotate automatically.

Step 5: Apply Changes

Finally, select the image or folder you wish to use, and your changes will be applied automatically.

After choosing your preferred settings, your new lock screen will be ready to display the next time you lock your computer or restart it.

After completing these steps, your Windows 11 lock screen will show the new background you selected. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in personalizing your computing experience.

Tips for Changing Lock Screen on Windows 11

  • Make sure your images are high resolution to prevent pixelation on larger screens.
  • Consider using a slideshow for a dynamic and ever-changing lock screen.
  • Use Windows Spotlight for daily automatically updated lock screen images.
  • Preview your chosen image to ensure it displays correctly before applying.
  • Save your favorite images in a dedicated folder for quick access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my own photos for the lock screen?

Yes, you can use your own photos by selecting the ‘Picture’ or ‘Slideshow’ option in the lock screen settings.

How do I return to the default lock screen?

To revert to the default, go to the lock screen settings and choose ‘Windows Spotlight’ or select one of the standard images provided by Windows.

What is Windows Spotlight?

Windows Spotlight is a feature that automatically updates your lock screen with beautiful images from Bing.

Can I display more information on my lock screen?

Yes, you can choose to show detailed information for a specific app, like calendar events, on your lock screen by adjusting the settings in the lock screen menu.

Is the lock screen image the same as the desktop wallpaper?

No, the lock screen image appears before you sign in, while the desktop wallpaper is visible when you’re working on your computer.

Summary

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on Personalization.
  3. Select Lock Screen.
  4. Choose Background.
  5. Apply Changes.

Conclusion

Personalizing your lock screen on Windows 11 is a fun and easy way to make your computer truly yours. With just a few clicks, you can transform the first thing you see when you start up your computer into something that reflects your personality or current mood. Whether you’re drawn to stunning landscapes, family photos, or art, the options are endless. Not only does this allow for a more visually pleasing experience, but it can also add a touch of motivation or calmness to your day whenever you glance at your screen.

Remember, just like choosing a new outfit can refresh your style, updating your lock screen can do wonders for your digital environment. With Windows 11, this process is more streamlined than ever, making it accessible even for those not too tech-savvy. If you’re eager to explore more customization options, consider delving into the themes and wallpaper settings next. There’s a whole world of personalization at your fingertips. So, why wait? Dive into your settings, play around, and find that perfect image that makes your lock screen uniquely yours.

Matthew Burleigh
Matthew Burleigh

Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.

Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.

The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.

You can read his full bio here.

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