There is no functional difference — desktop background and wallpaper refer to the exact same thing: the image displayed behind your icons on your computer screen.
Why two names?
The term "wallpaper" comes from the early days of graphical operating systems. Microsoft Windows used "wallpaper" in Windows 95 and 98. Starting with Windows XP, Microsoft switched to the term "desktop background" in the settings UI — but both terms stuck in everyday language and mean the same thing.
How different operating systems refer to it
- Windows 10 / 11: "Desktop background" in Settings → Personalization.
- macOS: "Wallpaper" in System Settings (Ventura+) or "Desktop Picture" in older versions.
- Most people and apps still use "wallpaper" regardless of OS.
Static vs rotating
Both terms apply equally whether you use a single static image or a rotating slideshow of photos. Apps like Webshots let you rotate through hundreds of photos automatically, so your desktop background (or wallpaper) is always fresh.
Browse HD and 4K wallpapers at here →