In this article we will tell you how to activate the screensaver in Windows 11. In addition, we talk about whether they are really necessary.
Activating the screensaver in Windows 11 is possible. Although it may seem like an outdated feature, Microsoft’s new operating system still comes with this built-in feature. Of course, to access its configuration you will have to follow some steps.
In the following sections we explain what a screensaver is in Windows 11 and how to enable it. In addition, we do a review of the main power options of the system. We also tell you if this function is really necessary today.
Index of contents
- What is a screensaver and what is it for?
- How to change the screensaver in Windows 11
- Other screensaver options in Windows 11
- How to install a screensaver in Windows 11
- Is it necessary to use a screensaver in Windows 11?
What is a screensaver and what is it for?
A screensaver or screen saver is a small application that projects moving images to avoid burns on the monitor. Since its first versions, Windows has included a series of protectors with all kinds of graphics. One of the most recognized is the 3D maze screensaver, which you can see in the video above.
These programs or system components were especially useful when using CRT monitors . Due to the type of technology they used, if they were kept on for a long time projecting a still image, for example the Windows desktop, they were permanently marked. That “burn” caused the image to be recorded and not disappear. That’s why screensavers were so important.
How to change the screensaver in Windows 11
Having clarified what the screensaver is and what it is for, it is time to take a look at the steps necessary to activate this feature in Windows 11. First of all, locate the selector in the Control Panel. The best way to do this is by opening search and typing Change screensaver . Immediately, an option with the same name will appear under Best Match .
In the Screensaver Settings window you have at your disposal all the settings to activate and customize the screensaver in Windows 11.
As you can see, by default the system does not bring any screensaver enabled. In the drop-down that you will see under Screen Saver , the message (none) appears . Click on the arrow to check which are all the protectors available.
If you have been a Windows user since its inception, you will quickly realize that the list of screensavers in this version of the system is very brief. Select the option you like the most and then use the Settings button to check if there are more related options.
If the message ”There are no options. This screensaver has no configurable options ” means that there is nothing you can modify the appearance of that screensaver.
However, options like 3D Text do have a good number of modifiable parameters. You can customize the text, change the resolution, alter the type of movement, and much more.
This screensaver also allows you to change the font.
It even supports modifying parameters related to the graphics card.
In any case, if you want to see the appearance of the chosen protector, click on Preview .
The screen saver will run full screen. To exit projection, move the mouse or press any key.
Other screensaver options in Windows 11
The screensaver is an element that is closely related to energy consumption. For this reason, from the Screen Saver Settings window you can modify the time that must elapse until its activation. Also if the lock screen should be shown when exiting the screensaver. You even have a lower link called Change power settings that allows you to see more options.
If you click on it, you will go to the Control Panel, where you can choose the power plan or customize the one that is already active. In addition, you have a shortcut to the section Choose when the screen turns off . It is located on the left side of the window.
When you are there, modify the parameters related to the automatic shutdown of the screen and entering the sleep state. It is possible to customize the behavior of the equipment in these aspects depending on whether it is connected to the electrical network or not.
By clicking on Change advanced power settings you will access other advanced options related to the equipment’s energy policy. In the Control Panel you will find various settings that interest you if you want to improve the autonomy or increase the efficiency of the equipment.
How to install a screensaver in Windows 11
As we have indicated, the list of screensavers that are currently available in Windows 11 is limited. Therefore, you may be interested in installing some additional ones that you have downloaded from the network.
When installing a screensaver there are two different methods. You will have to carry out one or the other depending on the format in which the protector is packaged. If it comes within the executable EXE, all you have to do is double click on it. Then, complete the installation as normal, as if it were any other application.
However, there is a possibility that the protector comes in SCR form. In that case, you need to right-click on the file and open all the menu options with the Show more options command .
Next, click on Install .
Then, go back to the screensaver selector and select the one you just installed from the list.
In this case, we have downloaded the Aurora protector that was included in the versions prior to Windows 8.
Is it necessary to use a screensaver in Windows 11?
Nowadays it is no longer necessary to use screensavers in Windows 11 . Why? The screen protector was a feature used to protect CRT monitors . Due to their technical characteristics, they suffered burns if a fixed image was kept for a long time. However, with the advent of LCD panels, images are created by aligning liquid crystals. This reduces the chances of burning when displaying a still image for a long period of time.
And you, are you still using a screensaver in Windows 11 ? What are the Windows screen savers that you remember? Leave us your comments below. We are looking forward to reading you!
