13 Effective Solutions to Fix Disappearing Windows Wallpaper

Wallpapers add color and personality to our Windows desktops, making them more enjoyable and visually appealing. However, there may be instances when you notice that your Windows wallpaper has mysteriously disappeared, leaving you with a dull black or white screen. Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we'll explore the 13 best fixes for when your Windows wallpaper goes missing. Let's dive in!

1. Enable Show Windows Background Option

For Windows 10 users, follow these steps to ensure that the “Show Windows Background” or “Show desktop background image” option is turned on:

• Press Windows + I to open the Settings menu.
• Go to Ease of Access > More Options.
• Check if the “Show Windows Background” option is enabled.

2. Update Background Type

To change the background type from a solid color to an image, follow these steps:

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Go to Personalization > Background.
• Select “Picture” from the drop-down menu.
• Choose an image from your computer to set as your wallpaper.

3. Disable High Contrast Option

High contrast settings can sometimes make your wallpaper appear black. To disable this option:

• Open Settings and go to Personalization > Colors.
• Select “None” from the drop-down menu next to “Contrast themes”.

4. Disable Wallpaper Shuffle Setting

If you have enabled the wallpaper shuffle setting, it may cause your wallpaper to change automatically and appear as if it has disappeared. To disable this setting:

• Right-click anywhere on the desktop and select “Personalize” from the drop-down menu.
• Click on “Background”.
• Toggle off the “Shuffle the picture order” option.

Alternatively, you can choose a static picture from the drop-down menu above.

5. Image File Deleted, Name Changed, Location Changed

Accidentally deleting or changing the name or location of the wallpaper image file can cause it to disappear. Make sure to save the wallpaper image file in the same location with the same name once it has been set as your wallpaper.

6. Unhide Themes Folder

If the themes folder where wallpapers and related files are saved is hidden, Windows won't be able to access it, resulting in a black desktop. To unhide the themes folder:

• Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
• Navigate to C:UsersgauravAppDataRoamingMicrosoftWindows.
• If you can't find the folder, click on View and select Show > Hidden items.
• Right-click on the “Themes” folder and select “Properties”.
• Uncheck “Hidden” under the “General” tab and save changes.

7. Disable Remove Background Images

The “Remove Background Images” option in the Ease of Access settings can remove your set wallpaper, giving the impression that it has disappeared. To disable this option:

• Press the Start menu button and search for and open the Control Panel.
• Click on “Optimize visual display” under Ease of Access.
• Scroll down and disable the “Remove background images” option.

8. Change Power Plan Settings

If you're using a custom power plan on a Windows laptop to conserve battery, it may affect your wallpaper. To check your power plan settings:

• Open Control Panel and go to System and Security > Power Options.
• Click on “Change plan settings” next to the chosen power plan.
• Click on “Change advanced power settings”.
• Expand “Desktop background setting > Slideshow” and set it to “Available” for both “On battery” and “Plugged in” as needed.

9. Disable Multi Monitor, Screen Sharing, or Remote Access

Activities such as using a dual monitor setup, screen sharing, or granting remote access to someone else can disable your wallpaper. Try stopping these activities to rule out any conflicts.

10. Update Display Drivers

Outdated or incompatible display drivers can cause issues with your wallpaper. To update display drivers:

• Press the Start button and search for and open Device Manager.
• Expand “Display adapters”.
• Right-click on the display driver(s) and select “Update driver”.
• Reboot your computer after updating the drivers.

11. Activate Windows

If you're using a trial version of Windows or haven't activated it yet, certain features like setting wallpapers may be disabled. Activate Windows by purchasing a licensed copy and following the activation process.

12. Exit Safe Mode

If your computer is in Safe Mode, your wallpaper may not appear. Exit Safe Mode by rebooting your computer as you normally would.

13. Fix Corrupt TranscodedWallpaper File

A corrupt TranscodedWallpaper file can cause your wallpaper to disappear or turn black. To fix this issue:

• Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
• Navigate to C:UsersgauravAppDataRoamingMicrosoftWindowsThemes.
• If you can't find the folder, click on View and select Show > Hidden items.
• Select the TranscodedWallpaper file, press F2, and rename it to “TranscodedWallpaper.old”.
• Reboot your computer to automatically recreate the file and set your wallpaper again.

These solutions should help you resolve the issue of disappearing Windows wallpapers. Remember to follow the steps carefully and reboot your computer when necessary. Now, go ahead and enjoy a beautiful and personalized desktop experience on your Windows device!