If you have an unactivated version of Windows 11, there are multiple workarounds to set any image you want as the desktop background. While this is an easy task, activating your copy is always recommended to unlock all the features and stay supported. These instructions will show you how if you don’t know the process. This guide will teach you how to change the desktop wallpaper when the settings are grayed out on Windows 11. (These instructions should also work on Windows 10.)
Change wallpaper without activation using File Explorer on Windows 11 Change wallpaper without activation using Photos on Windows 11 Change wallpaper without activation using Paint on Windows 11 Change wallpaper without activation using Group Policy on Windows 11 Change wallpaper without activation using Registry on Windows 11
Change wallpaper without activation using File Explorer on Windows 11
To change the wallpaper on Windows 11 without activation, use these steps: Alternatively, the “Set as background” option will appear in the command bar when selecting an image.
Change wallpaper without activation using Photos on Windows 11
To set a different wallpaper on Windows 11 without activation, use these steps: Once you complete the steps, the desktop background should display the new wallpaper.
Change wallpaper without activation using Paint on Windows 11
To change the wallpaper of an unactivated copy of Windows 11 in Paint, use these steps: After you complete the steps, the image will appear on the desktop.
Change wallpaper without activation using Group Policy on Windows 11
To change the desktop background image on Windows 11 Pro without activation through Group Policy, use these steps: Once you complete the steps, you may need to restart the computer to apply the settings.
Change wallpaper without activation using Registry on Windows 11
To change the Windows 11 desktop background through Registry without activation, use these steps: After you complete the steps, you may need to restart the computer to apply the custom desktop wallpaper on a Windows 11 device without activation.
If you want to remove the configuration, you can use the instructions, but on step No. 5, right-click the System key and select the Delete option. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.
