How to replace the Logon UI Background in Windows 7
Windows 7, unlike older versions of Windows include a registry entry which allows users to replace the logon user interface default background image. In previous versions users had to hack files in order to achieve the same results. When Windows 7 starts, it checks whether the logon UI (User Interface) background option is enabled in the registry and loads the default image as the background picture of the CTRL+ALT+DEL logon screen. To replace the logon UI background image follow the steps below:
To start the registry editor, type regedit in the Start menu search text box and press enter. Go to HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Authentication\LogonUI\Background and change the Background REG_DWORD value from 0 to 1. The default value is set to 1.
Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Authentication\LogonUI\Background
REG_DWORD (32-bit) Value name: Background or OEMBackground
Value: 1 (1=enabled, 0=disabled)
The image file must be named BackgroundDefault.jpg and copied to %SystemDrive%\Windows\System32\oobe\info\Backgrounds folder. Users need administrative privileges to perform these steps.
A word of caution – incorrectly editing the registry may severely damage your system. The above modifications are intended for Windows advanced users who are familiar with the registry editor. Users are also reminded to backup the registry before making any critical changes.
