Change the black desktop in Start > Settings > Personalization > Background, then select Solid color and choose a new color, or select Picture to use an image.^1^
If the whole Windows interface is black
If Settings, Start, and applications are also dark:
- Open Start > Settings > Personalization > Colors.
- Under Choose your mode, select Light.
Alternatively, choose Custom to set Windows and applications to different light or dark modes.^2^
If the background remains black
A contrast theme can override normal background settings:
- Open Start > Settings > Accessibility > Contrast themes.
- Select None from the drop-down list.
- Select Apply.^3^
If it still does not change, open Settings > Personalization > Themes and select one of the default Windows themes.^4^
References
- [Windows 11 24H2 or later](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/experience/power-battery/battery-saving-tips-for-windows#change-display-settings)
- Personalize your Colors in Windows | Microsoft Support
- Change color contrast in Windows | Microsoft Support
- [Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/experience/personalization/personalize-your-windows-experience-with-themes)