How to Change XP Background Settings

Using your computer

Windows XP provides you with a set of tools to change the background settings for your computer's desktop. Commonly changed background settings include the wallpaper, themes, screen saver and icon size. Each setting is quick and easy to change, no matter what your skill level. XP background settings can be changed for each individual user on a computer without affecting another user's settings. Whether you want to change the fonts displayed with your icons or change how your wallpaper is shown, you can do so through the Windows XP display properties dialog box.

Instructions

1. Go to "Start" and select "Control Panel."

2. Double click "Display." If you do not see "Display," click "Switch to Classic View" on the left side of the Control Panel window.

3. Change your desktop theme. Choose the "Theme" tab and use the drop-down box to select a theme or browse for more themes online. Press "Save As" when you've chosen a theme. Themes alter icon size, font size, background and sometimes even your mouse's cursor.

4. Customize the desktop itself by choosing the "Desktop" tab. Select a XP background from the provided list or select "Browse" to use an image stored on your computer.

   Change how the background is display by using the "Position" drop-down box. Options include "Center," which centers the background on your desktop, "Tile," which replicates your background across your desktop and "Stretch," which displays your background a single time across the entire screen.

5. Change your screen saver and screen saver settings by choosing the "Screen Saver" tab. Choose a screen saver from the drop-down list. Change how long the computer must be idle before the screen saver appears in the "Wait" box. Power settings can also be changed on this tab.

6. Change how dialog boxes, icons and their corresponding fonts appear under the "Appearance" tab. For further options, click the "Advanced" button. Add transitions and effects to your icons and dialog boxes by clicking the "Effects" button.

7. Change the size of the display itself by choosing the "Settings" tab. Settings include resolution and color quality.

Tips & Warnings

• Change one setting at a time to see the effect it has on your desktop before changing more settings.

• Document the changes you make to background settings so you can easily revert back to old settings if you do not like how the desktop looks.

• Always scan downloaded themes and backgrounds with anti-virus software before using them.

References

• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.edu -- Windows XP: Changing the Appearance of XP