The lock screen is the first thing you see when you start or unlock your device, whether it’s a PC or a mobile phone. Fortunately, the lock screen can be customized to suit your preferences. This also applies to Windows 11 PCs, where the lock screen has received a fresh and improved look compared to Windows 10. If you’re considering personalizing the lock screen on your Windows 11 computer, this guide will walk you through the steps to make it uniquely yours.
Lock Screen in Windows 11 offers a range of customization options for the lock screen, allowing you to tailor it to match your style. Instead of sticking with the default design, you can modify various elements to make the lock screen more visually appealing and functional. Here’s everything you need to know about customizing the lock screen on your Windows 11 PC.
How to Customize Lock Screen in Windows 11
The lock screen on Windows 11 offers plenty of customization options, allowing you to change wallpapers, display app information, and disable unnecessary elements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you personalize your Windows 11 lock screen to suit your preferences.
Change the Lock Screen Wallpaper
When you use any of the default themes in Windows 11, it automatically sets a lock screen wallpaper. However, you can easily swap it for an image of your choice or use Windows Spotlight to enjoy a daily rotating wallpaper.
Steps to Change the Wallpaper:
- Open the Settings app from the Start Menu.
- Click on Personalization in the left-hand pane.
- Select Lock Screen from the options on the right.
- Under the “Personalize your lock screen” section, click on the drop-down menu.
- Picture: Choose from default lock screen wallpapers or upload your own image by clicking Browse Photos.
- Slideshow: Select a folder of images to create an album that rotates on the lock screen.
- For Slideshow, additional options include:
- Allowing the slideshow to fit the screen.
- Disabling the slideshow when the PC is on battery power.
Set Lock Screen Wallpaper with Windows Spotlight
Windows Spotlight delivers a fresh, high-quality image to your lock screen daily, along with helpful tips and trivia. Follow these steps to enable it:
Steps to Enable Windows Spotlight:
- Open the Settings app from the Start Menu.
- Navigate to Personalization > Lock Screen.
- Under “Personalize your lock screen,” select Windows Spotlight from the drop-down menu.
- Lock your PC by pressing the Windows + L keys to preview your new Spotlight lock screen.
- Explore additional tips by interacting with the icons displayed on the center, left, and right sides of the lock screen.
Display App Status on the Lock Screen
Beyond just showing the date and time, your lock screen can also display information from apps like Email, Calendar, Weather, or even third-party apps from the Microsoft Store.
Steps to Display App Status:
- Open the Settings app from the Start Menu.
- Go to Personalization > Lock Screen.
- Find the “Lock screen status” option and click the drop-down menu.
- Select the app you want to display detailed information on your lock screen.
Disable Sign-In Screen Background and Tips
If you prefer a cleaner lock screen, you can disable the sign-in screen background and remove additional tips and facts. However, note that tips cannot be disabled if you’re using Windows Spotlight as your wallpaper.
Steps to Disable the Sign-In Background and Tips:
- Open the Settings app from the Start Menu.
- Go to Personalization > Lock Screen.
- Toggle Show the lock screen background on the sign-in screen to Off.
- If you’ve set a Picture or Slideshow as your wallpaper:
- Uncheck the box for Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen to disable additional elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I change the lock screen wallpaper in Windows 11?
You can change the lock screen wallpaper by going to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen. From there, select a picture or a slideshow from your gallery, or enable Windows Spotlight for daily changing wallpapers.
Can I use a slideshow as my Windows 11 lock screen wallpaper?
Yes, you can set a slideshow as your lock screen wallpaper. Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen, and under the “Background” option, select Slideshow. Then, choose the folder containing the images you want to use.
How do I set Windows Spotlight as my lock screen wallpaper?
To set Windows Spotlight as your lock screen wallpaper, open Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen. In the “Personalize your lock screen” section, select Windows Spotlight from the drop-down menu.
Can I display app notifications on my Windows 11 lock screen?
Yes, you can display notifications from apps like Email, Calendar, Weather, and other third-party apps on your lock screen. Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen, and under the “Lock screen status” section, choose the app you want to show notifications from.
How do I remove the sign-in screen background and tips from my lock screen?
To remove the background and tips, go to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen, and toggle off Show the lock screen background on the sign-in screen. You can also uncheck the box for Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen if you prefer a cleaner experience.
Conclusion
Customizing the lock screen in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to make your PC feel more personal and functional. Whether you prefer a stunning static wallpaper, a dynamic slideshow, or the daily-changing images of Windows Spotlight, Windows 11 gives you the flexibility to tailor your lock screen to suit your style.
Additionally, the ability to display app notifications and tweak settings like the sign-in screen background adds a layer of convenience and usability. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a lock screen experience that not only looks great but also enhances your overall interaction with your PC.
