Solutions for Desktop Background Turning Black While Highlighting

Key Notes

  • Restarting File Explorer can resolve temporary glitches.
  • Restoring your background image to its original location may solve the issue.
  • Keeping graphics drivers updated is essential for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting: Fixing the Black Desktop Background on Windows 10/11

If you’re facing a frustrating issue where your desktop background turns black when highlighting, this guide delivers practical solutions to restore your visual landscape.

Resolving the Black Desktop Issue in Windows 10/11

If your desktop background turns black on highlighting in your Windows 10/11 device, try these practical solutions:

  1. Step 1: Restart File Explorer

    This simple process can often reset temporary glitches. To restart File Explorer, access the Task Manager, find Windows Explorer in the Processes tab, select it, and click on End Task.

  2. Step 2: Restore Wallpaper to Original Location

    This method has worked for many users. If you’ve moved your wallpaper from its original directory, the issue may arise. Check the wallpaper’s original location, then reset it through the Settings: Navigate to Personalization > Background, choose Picture, and utilize the Browse photos option.

  3. Step 3: Roll Back the Graphics Driver

    If your graphics driver is malfunctioning post-update, rolling it back might help. In Device Manager, expand Display adapters, right-click the graphics driver, select Properties, navigate to the Driver tab, and click Roll Back.

  4. Step 4: Update or Reinstall the Graphics Driver

    An outdated graphics driver could trigger display problems. Ensure you’re operating with the latest drivers; if not, download the required updates from your manufacturer’s website, install, and restart your PC after completion.

  5. Step 5: Disable Remove Background Images Setting

    A particular Windows setting may prevent your desktop background from being visible. Disable the Remove background images (when available) option. Here’s how:

    1. Access the Control Panel
    2. Change View by to Small or Large icons
    3. Select Ease of Access Center
    4. Click Make the computer easier to use
    5. Scroll down and uncheck Remove background images (when available)
    6. Hit Apply, then OK.

Implementing these solutions should help fix your desktop background issues effectively.

Summary

This guide explored various solutions to the black desktop background problem on Windows 10/11, including restarting File Explorer, fixing graphics driver issues, and addressing Windows settings that could obstruct background display.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to successfully resolve the black desktop background issue on Windows 10/11. Keeping your software updated and checking specific settings will ensure a smooth user experience in the future.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What triggers a black desktop background?

This issue may stem from driver problems, application interference, or background settings configured to a Solid color.

How do I reset my background image?

You can reset your background image via the Settings app under Personalization by selecting a new wallpaper from the options available.