Many times Windows users face a strange problem. When they try to change the desktop wallpaper from Desktop Properties, following things happen:
- Wallpaper list as well as Browse button is disabled.
- You apply the desired wallpaper but desktop doesn't show it. It remains empty.
So if you are also facing such problems, then this tutorial will help you in fixing the issue:
Method A:
Right-click on Desktop and make sure "Lock Web Items on Desktop" option is not enabled in "Arrange Icons by" menu. If its enabled, then disable it and your problem should be solved.
Method B:
If Method A doesn't work, then do as following:
1. Type regedit in RUN dialog box and press Enter. Now go to following keys one by one:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies
HKEY_USERS\.Default\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies
2. Under these keys, if you see "ActiveDesktop" key, delete it.
3. Now Look for "System" key under "Policies" key. If you find it, then select it and look for a string value "Wallpaper" in right-side pane. If it exists, then delete it.
4. Restart your system and you should be able to set the wallpaper.
This article was posted by VG in following section: Troubleshooting, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP.
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mounir
Hi there. I just wanted to say that the tutorial did not fix the problem for me. The situation with me is a little different. The list is not disabled but the images cannot be seen. I can see only the transparent holder. And of course when I choose a wallpaper (by clicking on the empty holder) I get nothing.
VG
^^ Can you be more specific about your problem? Also post a link to screenshot if possible.
VG
Oh. You are talking about Windows Vista. Make sure "Use Thumbnails" option is enabled in "Folder Options".
Mariano
Hi mounir, y have the same problem, pls if you fix your problem, can you keep me posted!!!
Thanks a lot
Stewilg
Just wanted to let you know that your solution worked for me. Finally I am able to set my background on the desktop again. I don't know how it got disabled in the first place, but deleting the keys described solved the problem. Thanks.
Rose
Thank you so much!! I've had this problem for almost a year and could not find a solution. I did one thing differently, instead of deleting the whole Active Desktop folder, I deleted an article that said something along the lines of "NOHTMLWALLPAPER". And I have Vista. Just thought I'd share! Thanks again!
Deyaa Addeen Fahmy Shedeed
thank You not enough.
Anonymous
But how to enable d same .
Anon
Could u plz tell me How can i use d same restriction???
VG
^^ Pls check following topic:
http://www.askvg.com/how-to-enable-disable-changing-themes-wallpapers-screen-savers-and-other-desktop-settings/