How to change the desktop background

July 13, 2024 James How To Guides 0

Introduction to Changing the Desktop Background

The desktop background, or wallpaper, is the image or pattern displayed on your computer screen’s background. Changing it allows you to customize your desktop according to your mood, preferences, or aesthetics. This guide covers how to change the desktop background in Windows 10, macOS, and Ubuntu Linux, providing step-by-step instructions for each operating system.

Windows 10

Step-by-Step Guide to Change the Desktop Background in Windows 10

Step 1: Access Personalization Settings

  1. Right-click on the Desktop:
    • Right-click on any empty space on the desktop to open a context menu.
  2. Select “Personalize”:
    • From the context menu, click on “Personalize.” This opens the Settings app to the Personalization section.

Step 2: Choose Background Settings

  1. Navigate to Background Settings:
    • In the left-hand menu of the Personalization section, click on “Background.”
  2. Select a Background Option:
    • Under the “Background” dropdown menu, choose the type of background you want:
      • Picture: Choose an image from your computer.
      • Solid color: Select a solid color from the palette.
      • Slideshow: Create a slideshow using multiple images.
      • Choose a fit: Adjust how the image fits on your screen (Fill, Fit, Stretch, Tile, Center).
  3. Choose or Browse for an Image:
    • If you selected “Picture” or “Slideshow,” click on “Browse” to select an image from your computer. Select the image and click “Choose picture” or “Choose this folder.”
  4. Adjust Additional Settings (Optional):
    • Depending on your selection, you may have additional settings to adjust, such as slideshow timing or color selection for solid backgrounds.
  5. Preview and Apply:
    • Preview your chosen background on the desktop. Click “Save changes” to apply the new desktop background.

macOS

Step-by-Step Guide to Change the Desktop Background in macOS

Step 1: Open System Preferences

  1. Click on the Apple Menu:
    • Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen to open the Apple menu.
  2. Select “System Preferences”:
    • From the Apple menu, select “System Preferences.” This opens the System Preferences window.

Step 2: Change Desktop Background

  1. Access Desktop & Screen Saver:
    • In the System Preferences window, click on “Desktop & Screen Saver.” This opens the Desktop & Screen Saver settings.
  2. Choose a Desktop Picture:
    • In the Desktop tab, you’ll see a selection of default wallpapers. Click on one to preview it as your desktop background.
  3. Select a Custom Image:
    • To use your own image, click on the “+” button below the default wallpapers. Navigate to the image you want to use and click “Choose.”
  4. Adjust Image Position:
    • Use the options on the right-hand side to adjust how the image is displayed (Fill Screen, Fit to Screen, Stretch to Fill Screen, Tile, Center).
  5. Set Desktop Background:
    • Once satisfied with your selection, close the System Preferences window. Your desktop background will update automatically.

Ubuntu Linux

Step-by-Step Guide to Change the Desktop Background in Ubuntu Linux

Step 1: Open System Settings

  1. Access System Settings:
    • Click on the “Activities” button in the top-left corner of the screen (or press the Windows key), and type “Settings.” Open the “Settings” application.
  2. Navigate to Background Settings:
    • In the “Settings” application, click on “Background” in the left-hand menu. This opens the Background settings.

Step 2: Choose a Wallpaper

  1. Select Wallpaper:
    • In the Background settings, you’ll see several default wallpapers to choose from. Click on one to set it as your desktop background.
  2. Add a Custom Wallpaper:
    • To use your own image, click on the “+” button next to “Add Picture.” Navigate to the image file on your computer and select it. Click “Open” to set the image as your wallpaper.
  3. Adjust Background Settings:
    • Use the options provided (Background, Colors, and Effects) to customize how the wallpaper is displayed on your desktop.
  4. Apply Changes:
    • Once you’ve chosen your wallpaper and adjusted settings, close the “Settings” application. Your desktop background will update accordingly.

Conclusion

Changing the desktop background allows you to personalize your computer’s visual appearance to suit your preferences or mood. Whether you’re using Windows 10, macOS, or Ubuntu Linux, the process involves accessing settings specific to each operating system and selecting a desired image or theme. By following the step-by-step guides provided in this article, you can easily change your desktop background and enhance your computing experience.

Experiment with different wallpapers or images to create a desktop environment that inspires productivity or relaxation, reflecting your unique style and taste.