

It is possible to set the screensaver program to require a password when someone tries to take the screensaver off and resume looking at the desktop. This is no longer a concern on LCD monitors, but many people still use screensavers for aesthetics and privacy, as well as to allow antivirus programs to scan the computer while it is not in use. The moving images of the screensaver prevented this image burn from occurring on the screen. If a static image was left on the screen on these CRT monitors, or plasma monitors as well, the image could potentially "burn" onto the screen and cause damage. Older computer monitors used cathode-ray tube (CRT) technology, similar to old television sets. Screensavers at one time served a more functional purpose than they do now. Both wallpaper and screensavers are commonly used on both personal and business computers.Ĭathode ray tubes that project the same image for a long period of time can damage the screen. Sometimes, the screensaver on a computer will activate other computer programs that can run in the background, such as an antivirus or anti-spyware scan. The screensaver hides the computer desktop, both to prevent damage to the monitor and for security purposes. The difference between screensavers and wallpaper is that wallpaper is a static image that acts as a background image for the computer desktop, whereas the screensaver is a computer program that places a moving image on the computer screen while it is not in use.
