While screen savers are not entirely necessary anymore, many users prefer them to keep a computer secure while they’re away, or allow them to view a slideshow of their favorite photos. This page shows you how to enable and disable the screen saver option in Microsoft Windows and macOS. To proceed, choose your operating system from the list below and follow the instructions.

Windows Vista, 7, 8, and 10

  • Press the Windows key, type Change screen saver, and then press Enter.

  • Under the Screen saver section, click the down arrow on the right side of the selection box (A).

  • To enable, select a screen saver from the list. To disable, select None.

  • Once you’re done, click Apply (B) and then OK (C).

  • Windows Vista, 7, 8, and 10

  • Windows XP

  • macOS

You may adjust the time before the screen saver activates by changing the number of minutes in the box next to Wait.

Windows XP

  • Press Ctrl+D to minimize all open programs.
  • Right-click an empty space on the desktop.
  • Select Properties from the drop-down menu that appears.
  • Click the Screen Saver tab at the top of the window.
  • Under the Screen saver section, click the down arrow on the right side of the selection box.
  • To enable, select a screen saver from the list. To disable, select None.
  • Once you’re done, click Apply and then OK.

macOS

To enable or disable screen savers on a MacBook or iMac, follow the steps below.

  • In the menu bar, click the Apple icon to open the Apple menu, and select System Preferences.

  • Click the Desktop & Screen Saver icon in the System Preferences window.

  • In the next window, click the Screen Saver tab near the top. Then, click the box next to Start after.

  • In the drop-down menu that appears, there are several options. If you choose a time, the screen saver is enabled, activating after the specified number. If you choose “Never,” the screen saver is disabled.

  • How to change a computer screen saver.
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  • How to select, change, or download a Windows theme.
  • How to install a screen saver.
  • Computer screen saver information and help.