how to have animated wallpaper windows 11
Have you ever thought about making your Windows 11 desktop more lively? Adding animated wallpaper does just that! It’s like turning your screen into a living picture. You’ll need a third-party app to get this done since Windows 11 doesn’t support animated wallpapers natively. In a nutshell, you download an app, select your animation, and set it as your wallpaper. Let’s dive in!
How to Have Animated Wallpaper on Windows 11
This guide will walk you through the steps to transform your static desktop into a dynamic canvas using third-party software. You’ll learn how to select and set an animated wallpaper on your Windows 11 system.
Step 1: Download Lively Wallpaper
First, head over to the Microsoft Store and download "Lively Wallpaper."
Lively Wallpaper is a popular, free app that allows you to set animated wallpapers. It’s user-friendly and offers a variety of animations to choose from.
Step 2: Install Lively Wallpaper
After downloading, install the app by following the on-screen instructions.
Once installed, the app will take you through a quick setup process. Make sure to allow it to run at startup if you want your animated wallpaper to load automatically.
Step 3: Open Lively Wallpaper
Launch the Lively Wallpaper app from your Start menu.
The app interface is straightforward, and you’ll see a library of pre-loaded animated wallpapers ready to use. You can also add your own.
Step 4: Select an Animated Wallpaper
Browse the available options and click on the one you like.
You’ll get a preview of what the animated wallpaper looks like on your desktop. Take your time to find one that suits your style.
Step 5: Set the Wallpaper
Click on the "Set as Wallpaper" button to apply your chosen animation.
Your desktop should now display the animated wallpaper you selected. If you ever want to change it, simply open the app and pick another.
Step 6: Customize Settings (Optional)
Go to the settings in the Lively Wallpaper app to tweak performance or other preferences.
You can adjust the quality and performance settings based on your system’s capabilities. This can be useful if the animation seems to slow down your computer.
Once you complete these steps, your Windows 11 desktop will display the animated wallpaper you selected. Your screen will come alive with moving images, making your computing experience more enjoyable!
Tips for Having Animated Wallpaper on Windows 11
- Choose lightweight animations if you have an older computer to avoid performance issues.
- Regularly check for updates in the Lively Wallpaper app to access new features and wallpapers.
- Experiment with different animations to keep your desktop fresh and interesting.
- Use animated wallpapers that match your personality or interests. It makes your desktop feel more personal.
- Turn off animations when running intensive applications to save system resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can animated wallpapers slow down my computer?
Animated wallpapers can consume more resources than static ones, potentially slowing down older or less powerful systems.
Is Lively Wallpaper free to use?
Yes, Lively Wallpaper is free to download and use. However, you can support the developer through donations.
Can I use my own animations?
Absolutely! Lively Wallpaper allows you to import your own animations, such as GIFs or videos, to use as wallpapers.
Will animated wallpapers drain my laptop battery faster?
Yes, running animated wallpapers can consume more battery power compared to static wallpapers. It’s best to use them while plugged in.
Is it safe to download animated wallpaper apps?
Yes, but make sure to download apps from reputable sources like the Microsoft Store to avoid malware.
Summary
- Download Lively Wallpaper.
- Install Lively Wallpaper.
- Open Lively Wallpaper.
- Select an Animated Wallpaper.
- Set the Wallpaper.
- Customize Settings (Optional).
Conclusion
Adding an animated wallpaper to your Windows 11 desktop can transform your computing experience from mundane to mesmerizing. While Windows 11 doesn’t natively support animated wallpapers, third-party apps like Lively Wallpaper make it easy and accessible. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll have a dynamic, visually engaging desktop in no time.
Remember, animations can use more system resources, so keep an eye on your computer’s performance. Always download apps from reliable sources to ensure your system’s safety. If you find that the animations affect your system’s performance, you can always tweak the settings or switch back to a static wallpaper when necessary.
In a world where visual stimulation is everywhere, why should your desktop be any different? Give it a try and see how animated wallpapers can breathe new life into your everyday computing. Happy customizing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.