Final answer:
The desktop background changing unexpectedly is most likely due to C malware. Malware can change system settings such as the desktop wallpaper. Other options like boot failure, startup loop, and incompatibility generally result in different issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to a scenario in which an operating system's desktop background changes unexpectedly. The most likely cause of this issue, among the given options, is C malware. Malware, or malicious software, can impact a computer system in various detrimental ways, which includes altering system settings without the user's consent. It can change the desktop wallpaper or other desktop settings as a means of signaling control or as a byproduct of other malicious activities taking place in the system's background.
A boot failure would prevent the system from starting up properly, while a B startup loop involves continuous rebooting without reaching the desktop. D incompatibility issues generally do not cause changes to the desktop but might cause applications or hardware to not function as intended. Therefore, it is important to ensure that there is effective antivirus software installed to detect and remove malware.