Vista - Desktop Background Wallpaper - Prevent Change

This was very helpful. I have been trying to change my background forever, but I could never figure out what was wrong. Thanks

You're welcome Eburns, and welcome to Vista Forums. I'm happy to hear that you got it sorted.

Shawn

Hiya,

This is much later the last post I know, but I've a few problems after using the helpful guide here. I'm having troubles like most other people who are writing are, I cannot edit change the background without right clicking on the image and the "Desktop Background" icon has disappeared from the control panel.

I went through the tutorial and tried all of the methods to enable it again, and the reg key I was hoping to find so I could delete it wasn't there. I searched the whole registry for one through the search function and nothing appeared.

Im reluctant to re-install or repair Vista as I dont think I have the CD on me anymore, and this problem has been going on for so long causing me to be reluctant to preform a system restore as I would have to go back to one of the first restore points created!

Any idea's as how to help,
Thanks a lot,
Andy

Hi Andy, and welcome to Vista Forums.

Could you post back a screenshots of these locations in your registry. Be sure to include everything in the right pane at these locations. I will see if I can spot the entry that be blocking it for you.

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System

and

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System


and

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer


and

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer

hey Brink,

After starting my computer up again (despite a restart after all your advice) for some reason its decided to sort itself out now, I can only presume its to do with the advice you gave me, so thanks a lot!

Finally I can set myself a screensaver and change my wallpaper in different ways!

Andy

Andy,

I'm happy to hear that you got it sorted out.

Shawn

I tried the above too but have no ActiveDesktop under polices.
Can I add it somewhere. I have Vista Premium.
Thanks
Korimako

Hello Korimako,

If you wish to remove the Desktop Background option in the Personalization window, then you could METHOD TWO (Step One) in the tutorial for how to add ActiveDesktop to do so.

Hope this helps,
Shawn

Thanks Shawn, that has worked. Have a nice day.
Korimako

You're welcome Korimako.