Using a Screen Saver

A screen saver can provide a nice little respite from your work, as well as some privacy. If you work with other people, you might not want them to be able to read your screen, albeit unintentionally, any time your computer is unattended. To prevent anyone from using your computerbut still allow network access to itwhen you're away from your desk, you can use the password option. You'll need sign in to Windows Vista using your password when you're ready to get back to work.

Choose a Screen Saver

Click the Start button, type pers in the Search box, click Personalization, and then click Screen Saver in the Personalization window to display the Screen Saver Settings dialog box.

Click a screen saver in the Screen Saver list.

Click Settings.

Specify the options you want for the screen saver. (Some have no options; those that do have their own unique settings.) Click OK when you've finished.

Click Preview to see the screen saver in full-screen view. Move your mouse to end the preview.

Specify the length of time you want your computer to be inactive before the screen saver starts.

Select this check box to require you to log on so that you can get back to work.

Click OK.

Create a Custom Screen Saver

Click the Start button, type pers in the Search box, click Personalization, and then click Screen Saver in the Personalization window to display the Screen Saver Settings dialog box.

Select Photos in the Screen Saver list.

Click Settings.

Select this option to use items from your Photo Gallery. You can limit which items you want to be shown by specifying tags or ratings.

Select this option if you want to use items from a specific folder, and click Browse to specify the folder.

Select a theme for the display, and select the speed at which you want the pictures to change.

Select this check box to have the pictures appear in random order.

Click Save.

Make any additional settings for the screen saver.

Click OK.

Tip

If you use the Photos option for your screen saver, you can include videos as part of the screen saver.

See Also

"Controlling the Volume" on page 170 for information about setting the sound volume for your screen saver.