Top 4 Fixes for Unable to Change Desktop Background on Windows

Can’t change your desktop background in Windows? You’re not alone. Whether your wallpaper option is greyed out, or nothing happens when you try to switch backgrounds, it’s a common issue. Good news: it’s usually easy to fix.

Here are the top four ways to get your desktop looking the way you want:

1. Check Windows Activation

Windows needs to be activated to allow personalization. If your copy isn’t activated, the option to change your background will be unavailable.

How to check:

1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security > Activation.
3. If it says “Windows is not activated,” click Activate or enter a valid product key.

Tip: If you bought your PC secondhand or just upgraded, double-check your product key.

2. Tweak Group Policy Settings (Windows Pro & Enterprise)

Sometimes, group policies prevent background changes—especially on work or school computers.

How to fix:

1. Press Windows Key + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
2. Go to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Control Panel > Personalization.
3. Double-click Prevent changing desktop background.
4. Set it to Not Configured or Disabled. Click OK.

Note: Group Policy Editor isn’t available on Windows Home editions.

3. Fix It in the Registry

The Registry controls many system settings. A quick edit can solve the problem.

Steps:

1. Press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
3. Find the value named Wallpaper.
4. Right-click and Delete it.
5. Also, double-click on NoChangingWallPaper and set its value to 0.

Restart your computer and try again.

4. Check Ease of Access Settings

Windows “Ease of Access” can disable your background for performance reasons.

To fix:

1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Ease of Access > Display.
3. Scroll down and make sure “Show desktop background image” is turned ON.

Final Thoughts

If none of these fixes work, check for malware or corrupt user profiles—these can also block background changes. Most users, though, will get results with one of the four fixes above.

Have another solution or still stuck? Drop a comment below and I’ll help you troubleshoot!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!