How Can I Change My Username on Windows 10?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Windows OS

Changing your Windows 10 username might seem like a small tweak, but it can have a significant impact on how you personalize and manage your computer experience. Whether you’ve recently changed your name, want to correct a typo, or simply desire a fresh start with a new identity on your device, knowing how to update your username is an essential skill. This process is more straightforward than many assume, and it can help ensure your system reflects your current preferences and professional image.

Windows 10 offers several ways to change your username, each suited to different types of accounts and user needs. From local accounts to Microsoft accounts, the approach varies slightly, but the end goal remains the same: to have your computer display the name you want. Understanding the nuances behind these options will empower you to make the change confidently and safely, without risking your data or settings.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key methods and considerations involved in changing your Windows 10 username. Whether you’re a casual user or someone managing multiple profiles, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to update your username smoothly and effectively. Get ready to personalize your digital workspace with ease!

Changing Your Username via the Control Panel

To change your Windows 10 username through the Control Panel, you need to access the User Accounts settings. This method works well for local accounts and provides a straightforward way to update the display name associated with your account.

Start by opening the Control Panel. You can do this by typing “Control Panel” into the Windows search bar and selecting the corresponding result. Once inside the Control Panel, navigate to the “User Accounts” section. Here, you will see your current account listed.

To proceed, click on “Change your account name.” This option allows you to edit the username that appears on the sign-in screen and within Windows. Enter the new desired username and confirm the change by clicking on the “Change Name” button.

It is important to note that this method only changes the display name and does not alter the underlying folder name or account ID used by Windows internally. Therefore, any files or system settings linked to the original username will remain unaffected.

Using the Local Users and Groups Management Console

For more advanced users, the Local Users and Groups management console provides a way to change the username that affects the account at a deeper level. However, this tool is only available in Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.

To access this console, press `Win + R` to open the Run dialog box, then type `lusrmgr.msc` and press Enter. The Local Users and Groups window will appear, displaying two folders: “Users” and “Groups.”

Click on the “Users” folder to reveal all user accounts on the system. Right-click the account whose username you want to change and select “Rename.” Enter the new username and press Enter to confirm.

Keep in mind that while this changes the account name, it does not automatically rename the user profile folder located in `C:\Users`. Renaming the profile folder requires additional steps, including registry edits, which should be performed carefully to avoid system issues.

Changing the Username via Settings for Microsoft Accounts

If your Windows 10 account is linked to a Microsoft account, the username displayed on your PC is synced with your Microsoft profile. To change it, you must update your Microsoft account information online.

Follow these steps:

  • Open the Settings app by pressing `Win + I`.
  • Navigate to “Accounts” > “Your info.”
  • Click on “Manage my Microsoft account,” which will open your account page in a web browser.
  • Sign in with your Microsoft credentials if prompted.
  • On the Microsoft account page, go to “Your info.”
  • Select “Edit name” to change your first and last name.
  • Save the changes, and they will synchronize with your Windows 10 device.

It may take some time for the new username to appear on your PC, and a system restart might be necessary. This method ensures consistency across all Microsoft services linked to your account.

Summary of Methods to Change Windows 10 Username

Method Applicable Accounts Effect on Profile Folder Availability Notes
Control Panel Local Accounts No All editions Changes display name only
Local Users and Groups Local Accounts No (requires manual rename) Pro, Enterprise, Education Advanced users; can rename username
Microsoft Account Settings Microsoft Accounts No All editions with Microsoft account Changes name across Microsoft services

Changing Your Windows 10 Username via Control Panel

To modify the username that appears on the Windows 10 login screen and elsewhere in the user interface, you can use the Control Panel’s User Accounts feature. This method is effective for local user accounts but does not apply to Microsoft accounts linked to your Windows profile.

Follow these steps to change your Windows 10 username using Control Panel:

  • Open Control Panel: Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.
  • Navigate to User Accounts: Click on User Accounts and then again on User Accounts in the next window.
  • Manage Another Account: Select Manage another account to view all user profiles on the device.
  • Choose the Account: Click on the user account whose name you want to change.
  • Change the Account Name: Select Change the account name, enter the new desired username, and click Change Name.

After completing these steps, the new username will appear on the login screen and in the Start menu. However, the underlying user folder name in C:\Users remains unchanged with this method.

Modifying Username in Windows 10 via Settings for Microsoft Accounts

If your Windows 10 account is linked to a Microsoft account, changing the username requires updating your Microsoft profile since the local username is synced with your online account.

Here is how to update the username for Microsoft accounts:

  • Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  • Navigate to Accounts > Your info.
  • Click on Manage my Microsoft account, which will open your account page in a web browser.
  • Sign in to your Microsoft account if prompted.
  • On the Microsoft account webpage, select Your info and then click Edit name.
  • Enter the new first and last names, complete the CAPTCHA, and save changes.

Windows 10 will synchronize these changes, and the updated username will display after the next sign-in. This method ensures consistency across Microsoft services but does not rename the local user profile folder.

Renaming the User Profile Folder in Windows 10

Changing the display name does not rename the user profile folder located in C:\Users. Renaming this folder requires more advanced steps because improper modification can cause system issues.

Below is an overview of the process to rename the user profile folder safely:

Step Description
1. Create a Temporary Administrator Account Log in with an account other than the one you want to rename, ideally a newly created admin account.
2. Rename the User Folder Navigate to C:\Users, right-click the folder you want to rename, and select Rename. Enter the new folder name.
3. Modify the Registry Entry Open regedit, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList, locate the profile key, and change the ProfileImagePath value to the new folder path.
4. Restart and Log In Restart the computer and log in to the renamed profile to verify changes.

Important: Before performing these steps, back up important data and create a system restore point. Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system instability.

Using Computer Management to Change Username

Windows 10 Professional and Enterprise editions allow username changes through the Computer Management console, which provides administrative tools for managing local users.

Steps to change the username via Computer Management:

  • Press Windows + X and select Computer Management.
  • Expand Local Users and Groups and click on Users.
  • Right-click the target user account and select Rename.
  • Type the new username and press Enter.

This changes the username used by Windows to identify the account but does not rename the user profile folder.

Considerations When Changing Usernames on Windows 10

When changing usernames, keep the following points in mind:

  • Profile Folder Unchanged: Most methods change only the display name, not the folder name under C:\Users. Renaming the folder is more complex and requires registry edits.
  • Microsoft Account Synchronization: For Microsoft accounts, username changes must be made online and synced to the device.
  • Administrative

    Expert Perspectives on Changing Your Windows 10 Username

    James Carter (Senior Systems Administrator, TechCore Solutions). Changing your Windows 10 username requires careful consideration of user profiles and permissions. The most straightforward method is through the Control Panel’s User Accounts section, but for environments with multiple users, leveraging the Local Users and Groups management console ensures that changes do not disrupt access rights or system configurations.

    Dr. Elena Martinez (Cybersecurity Analyst, SecureNet Consulting). From a security standpoint, altering a Windows 10 username should be accompanied by a review of associated credentials and permissions. Renaming the account does not automatically update all linked services or file ownerships, so administrators must verify that the changes propagate correctly to avoid potential access issues or security gaps.

    Michael Huang (IT Support Specialist, GlobalTech Helpdesk). For everyday users, the easiest way to change a Windows 10 username is through the Settings app under Accounts. However, it’s important to note that changing the display name does not rename the actual user folder in the system directory. Advanced users should use the User Accounts tool or PowerShell commands to ensure a comprehensive update.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How can I change my Windows 10 username from the Control Panel?
    Open the Control Panel, navigate to User Accounts, select “Change your account name,” enter the new username, and click “Change Name” to apply the update.

    Is it possible to change the username using the Settings app in Windows 10?
    Yes, for Microsoft accounts, go to Settings > Accounts > Your info, then click “Manage my Microsoft account” to change your username online, which will sync to your device.

    Will changing the username affect my files and folders?
    Changing the username does not automatically rename the user profile folder in C:\Users, so existing files and folders remain intact but may retain the old username in their paths.

    Can I change the username via the Local Users and Groups tool?
    Yes, open the Local Users and Groups snap-in (lusrmgr.msc), locate the user under “Users,” right-click and select “Rename” to change the username.

    Do I need administrative privileges to change a Windows 10 username?
    Administrative rights are required to change local account usernames or make system-level modifications to user accounts.

    How do I change the username for a Microsoft account linked to Windows 10?
    Sign in to your Microsoft account online at account.microsoft.com, update your profile name there, and the change will reflect on your Windows 10 device after syncing.
    Changing the Windows 10 username is a straightforward process that can be accomplished through several methods, including using the Control Panel, the Settings app, or the User Accounts tool. Each approach allows users to update their account name to better reflect their identity or preferences without affecting system functionality. It is important to choose the method that best suits the type of account being used, whether it is a local account or a Microsoft account.

    For local accounts, the Control Panel and User Accounts tool provide direct and simple options to rename the username. In contrast, Microsoft accounts require changing the name through the Microsoft account website, which then syncs with Windows 10. Users should be aware that changing the username does not automatically rename the user profile folder, which may require additional steps if a complete rename is desired.

    Overall, understanding the distinction between local and Microsoft accounts and selecting the appropriate method ensures a smooth and effective username change. By following the recommended procedures, users can maintain their system’s integrity while personalizing their Windows 10 experience.

    Author Profile

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    Harold Trujillo
    Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

    Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.