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Custom ScreenSaver vanishes on reboot.

With windows 10 and 11, I have had the following issue:
I start by downloading a screensaver from a website. (yes, it is .scr). (specifically, VideoScreenSaver.scr (downloaded from screensaverplanet) which allows me to play MP4 files as a screensaver on a loop)
I then alt enter the file, to remove some metadata such as the fact it comes from outside my computer, turn off read only mode, etc.
I then right-click the file, click install, configure it to use a video (specifically, a doctor who opening clip), and I give it the okay.

And it works.

...And then my computer eventually has to reboot, be it because I installed something, uninstalled something, microsoft decided to shove more updates at me that I can't properly turn off, etc.

Once the computer has rebooted, videoscreensaver is not only not the selected screensaver, but also:
1: now, no screensaver selected AT ALL.

2: I go to the screen saver configuration options, aaaaand....it's gone. Not in the dropdown menu AT ALL anymore.

I have tried the following:

Copy the file into c:\windows\

Copy the file into c:\windows\system32\

Try installing it from those critical system folders.

Try copying it into EVERY SINGLE SUBFOLDER UNDER WINDOWS (it's a really tiny file, so I can easily afford the hdd space to do this)

and still windows refuses to keep it chosen!

What gives? How do I fix this?! HELP!! I WANT TO BE ABLE TO PLAY VIDEO FILES AS MY SCREENSAVER, EVEN AFTER REBOOTING!

Please and thank you.

Hi Dave,

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

I'm Hahn and I'm here to help you with your concern.

I'm sorry to hear that you're having trouble with your custom screensaver disappearing after a reboot. This issue may be caused by Windows 11's security features that prevent the installation of third-party screensavers. Here are some steps you can try to resolve the issue:

1. Try running the screensaver installer as an administrator. Right-click on the installer file and select "Run as administrator."

2. Security Software:

Some security software may interfere with the installation and settings of screensavers. Temporarily disable your antivirus or other security software, install the screensaver, and then re-enable your security software.

Disclaimer: Temporarily turn off antivirus protection. However, keep in mind that if you do so, your device may be vulnerable to threats. So please turn it on immediately once issue fixed.

3. Compatibility Mode:

Try setting the screensaver to run in compatibility mode for an older version of Windows. Right-click on the screensaver file, select "Properties," go to the "Compatibility" tab, and try setting it to run in compatibility mode.

4: Registry Edits:

You can try manually editing the registry to force the screensaver to be recognized. Open the Registry Editor (press Win + R, type "regedit," and press Enter), then navigate to:

1. Navigate to the following key: `HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop`.

2. Locate the `SCRNSAVE.EXE` value and make sure it is set to the correct path of your screensaver file.

3. If the value is not set or is incorrect, right-click on the `SCRNSAVE.EXE` value and select "Modify".

4. Enter the correct path to your screensaver file and click "OK".

5. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

If the above steps do not work, you can try reinstalling the screensaver and making sure that it is compatible with your version of Windows.

Disclaimer: Generally, modifying registry subkeys or work group is intended for advanced users, administrators, and IT Professionals. It can help fix some problems, however, serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Therefore, make sure that you follow these steps carefully. For further protection, back up the registry before you modify it. Then, you can restore the registry if a problem occurs.

I hope these steps help you fix your custom screensaver issue. If not, you might want to contact the developer of the screensaver for further assistance.

Your Sincerely

Hahn - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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Question Info

Last updated April 20, 2024 Views 191 Applies to: