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Solution: Windows 11 Lock Screen Background Changes Back to Default Blue Screen

2023/11/22
PC Repair

Key Notes

  • Identifying the problem helps in selecting the right solution.
  • Performing a system file check can resolve many background issues.
  • Creating a new user account often bypasses existing user-specific restrictions.

Resolving Lock Screen Background Problems in Windows 11

Many users of Windows 11 face the frustrating issue of their lock screen background reverting to a blue screen with white waves despite their attempts to change it. Whether you’re using Windows Spotlight, a personal image, or a slideshow, this guide will equip you with effective solutions to reclaim your desired lock screen image.

Step-by-Step Fixes

Step 1: Re-register Windows Spotlight

To fix issues with Windows Spotlight, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to run it as admin.
  2. Confirm the UAC prompt.
  3. Run the following commands: DEL /F /S /Q /A "%USERPROFILE%/AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft. Windows. ContentDeliveryManager_cw5n1h2txyewy\LocalState\Assets" DEL /F /S /Q /A "%USERPROFILE%/AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft. Windows. ContentDeliveryManager_cw5n1h2txyewy\Settings"
  4. Open Windows PowerShell as an administrator and run this command: Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Where-Object {$_. InstallLocation -like "SystemApps"} | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_. InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
  5. Reboot your device and see if the issue persists.

Step 2: Modify Permissions

Adjust permissions for the SystemData folder to ensure proper access:

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer. Enable hidden items by navigating to View > Show > Hidden items.
  2. Navigate to C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows.

Taking Full Control of the Folder:

  1. Right-click on the SystemData folder and choose Properties.
  2. Go to the Security tab and click Advanced.
  3. Click Change, type your profile name, and confirm.
  4. Enable Replace owner on subcontainers and objects and click Apply.

Finding and Assigning the Correct SID:

  1. Open Run, type cmd, and enter wmic useraccount get name, SID. Identify the SID for your user account.
  2. Navigate back to the SystemData folder and find the correct SID folder.

Moving Files to the Correct Location:

  1. Open the respective SID folder and navigate to the LockScreen directory.
  2. Replace the blue screen default image with your preferred wallpaper image.

Step 3: Allow Apps to Run in the Background

Ensure Microsoft Edge and the Microsoft Store can run in the background:

For Microsoft Edge:

  1. Open Microsoft Edge, access Settings, and navigate to System and performance.
  2. Enable Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed.

For Microsoft Store:

  1. Press Windows + I, go to Settings, and select System Components.
  2. Choose Microsoft Store, select Advanced options, and set it to Always.

Step 4: Repair Corrupt System Files

To address corrupt system files:

  1. Open Run, type cmd, and press both Ctrl + Shift + Enter to run as administrator.
  2. Paste and run the following DISM commands:

    3. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

  3. Run the SFC scan using: sfc /scannow

Step 5: Uninstall Conflicting Applications

Remove any applications that might be preventing proper operation:

  1. Open Run, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
  2. Select antivirus or similar software that may conflict, and click Uninstall.
  3. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation.
  4. Restart your computer to check if the issue is resolved.

Step 6: Perform an In-Place Upgrade

If all else fails, consider an in-place upgrade:

  1. Visit Microsoft’s Windows 11 page, select your edition and language, and download the Windows 11 ISO.
  2. Open the downloaded ISO and run setup.exe.

Follow the prompts until you verify ‘Keep personal files and apps’ and click Install.

Step 7: Create a New User Account

As a final resort, create a new user account:

  1. Open Run, type netplwiz, and hit OK.
  2. Click Add to create a new profile.
  3. Select “Sign in without a Microsoft account (not recommended)” and proceed with a local account.
  4. Assign administrator privileges to the new account and check if the lock screen issue persists.

Additional Tips

  • Always back up important data before making significant changes.
  • Consider creating a Restore Point before trying repairs.
  • Use reliable antivirus software to avoid conflicts.

Summary

In this guide, we explored various methods to troubleshoot and fix the lock screen background issue reverting to a blue screen in Windows 11. Solutions range from simple fixes like updating Windows, to more technical adjustments involving system file checks and user permissions. Armed with these steps, users should be able to restore their desired lock screen settings effectively.

Conclusion

Fixing the lock screen background in Windows 11 may seem daunting, but with the right approach and solutions outlined here, you can regain control of your display preferences. Don’t hesitate to try multiple methods if one doesn’t work, and remember to reach out for professional assistance if necessary.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why does my lock screen background keep reverting to blue?

This issue usually results from corrupted system files, improper permissions, or conflicts with background applications.

How can I fix Windows Spotlight if it’s not working?

Re-registering Windows Spotlight through Command Prompt and PowerShell often resolves issues related to this feature not functioning correctly.

PC Repair