Solution: Cannot Change Desktop Wallpaper in Windows



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 doesnt 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 doesnt work, then do as following:

1. Open regedit and goto 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.

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This article was posted in Troubleshooting, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP.


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