Personalization

Updated: 12/23/2025 by Computer Hope

Personalization can refer to any of the following:

1. Personalization refers to tailoring a system or interface to meet an individual's preferences or needs. For example, Netflix uses algorithms to analyze user behavior to provide suggestions tailored to individual preferences. Personalization helps users discover content they're likely to enjoy.

2. In Windows, Personalization is a setting area in Windows that lets you personalize how Windows appears. Some settings found in this area were found in the Display Properties section of earlier versions of Windows.

Below is an example of how the Personalization window appears in Windows 11.

Windows 11 Display Personalization window.

What settings are in Personalization?

Below is a brief overview of the available settings in Personalization. Visiting any of the links mentioned in this section gives you further information.

  • Background - Set the Windows background picture.
  • Colors - Change the colors of their windows, taskbar, and other UI (User Interface) elements.
  • Themes - Adjust Windows themes to change colors and background settings.
  • Dynamic Lighting - Adjust the brightness and lighting of devices that support dynamic lighting.
  • Lock screen - Adjust the lock screen settings.
  • Text input - Adjust how the theme for text input boxes and voice appears in Windows.
  • Start - Customize how the Windows Start menu appears and what's shown on the menu.
  • Taskbar - Customize what's shown on the Windows taskbar and system tray.
  • Fonts - View and show the fonts installed on the computer and drag-and-drop to install new fonts.
  • Device usage - Customize what personalized tips, ads, and recommendations you receive.

How to open Personalization

The Personalization window can be opened through any of the following methods.

  1. Minimize all open windows (Windows key+D) to get to the desktop.
  2. Right-click anywhere on the desktop, then select Personalize in the context menu.

Or:

  1. Press the Windows key or click Start.
  2. Type run and press Enter.
  3. Type control desktop and press Enter.

Customization, Display properties, Display settings, User experience, Video terms