You can change the Windows 11 lock screen from Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. Windows currently lets you use Windows spotlight, a single picture, or a slideshow for the lock-screen background.
How to Change the Windows 11 Lock Screen Background
- Open Settings.
- Select Personalization.
- Select Lock screen.
- Open the Personalize your lock screen setting.
- Choose Windows spotlight, Picture, or Slideshow.
- If you choose Picture, select an available image or browse for your own picture.
- If you choose Slideshow, choose the folder or folders containing the images you want Windows to rotate.
What Is Windows Spotlight?
Windows spotlight automatically displays a changing selection of images supplied by Microsoft. Choose Picture instead if you want the same image to remain on the lock screen, or Slideshow if you want Windows to rotate through your own collection.
Lock Screen vs. Desktop Background
The lock-screen background is separate from the wallpaper shown behind your desktop icons. To change the desktop itself, use Settings > Personalization > Background. Changing one does not necessarily change the other.
Use the Lock Screen Picture on the Sign-In Screen
Windows provides a setting to show the lock-screen background picture on the sign-in screen. Turn that option on if you want the image to remain visible when Windows presents the sign-in controls, or turn it off if you prefer the alternate sign-in background behavior.
Lock Screen Widgets and Information
Current Windows 11 versions can show widgets or useful information on the lock screen. The exact choices can change with Windows updates. Review the Lock screen settings if you want to add, remove, or limit information displayed before you sign in.
What If Your Lock Screen Setting Is Disabled?
A work or school administrator can manage personalization settings through organization policies. If options are unavailable on a managed PC, check with the administrator rather than attempting to bypass the policy.
Summary
Open Settings > Personalization > Lock screen, then choose Windows spotlight, Picture, or Slideshow. Remember that the lock screen, sign-in screen, and desktop background are related but separate personalization settings.