How to Customize the Lock Screen on Windows 11

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Open the Personalization menu

   Press the Windows key on your keyboard and select the Settings gear icon. Navigate to the Personalization tab in the left-hand sidebar and click on the Lock screen menu item.

   Note: Alternatively, right-click any empty space on your desktop and select Personalize.
2. 1 min

   Set your lock screen background

   Locate the Personalize your lock screen dropdown menu. Select between Windows spotlight to receive daily images from Microsoft, Picture to upload a local file, or Slideshow to cycle through a folder of images.

   Note: If choosing Picture, click Browse photos to select your own wallpaper.
3. 1 min

   Choose lock screen status apps

   Under the Lock screen status section, click the dropdown menu to select an app that provides detailed status updates. Options typically include Weather, Calendar, or Mail to display info directly on the login screen.

   Note: Select None if you prefer a minimalist look without notification widgets.
4. 30 sec

   Manage lock screen screen time

   Scroll down to Screen timeout settings. Expand this section to adjust the duration before your device turns off the screen or enters sleep mode while the lock screen is active.

   Note: Keeping these settings conservative preserves battery life on laptops.
5. 30 sec

   Verify your changes

   Press the lock keyboard shortcut to immediately lock your device and preview your new configuration. Press any key or click the mouse to return to the sign-in prompt.

   Note: If the background does not update immediately, restart the Windows Explorer process via Task Manager.