How To Change Your Username On Windows 11 and 10
There are multiple ways to go about it
If you’re not satisfied with your current Windows username, want to switch things up, or have several accounts with similar names, it’s not a problem. Changing your username is straightforward. This tutorial will show you how to rename a Microsoft or local account inWindows 11 and Windows 10.
Do You Use a Microsoft Account or a Local Account?
Before changing your username on Windows 11 or 10, you must determine whether you’re using a Microsoft or local account. To do that, open the Settings app (right-click the Start button and select Settings), then look at the window’s top-left corner.
If you see a name and email address, you’re signed in with a Microsoft account. If it says “Local Account,” you’re using a local account.
A Microsoft account username is linked to an online profile and helps you sync settings and files across Windows devices. This Windows account type uses the same name as your Microsoft account name as the username.
A local account, meanwhile, is specific to a single computer. It allows for a custom username and functions entirely offline.
The process to change your username in Windows 11 varies depending on whether you have a Microsoft account or a local account.
How toChange the Microsoft Account User Name in Windows 11
If you’re signed into Windows 11 or 10 with a Microsoft account, then the only way to change your user name is to change your Microsoft account name. To do that:
Your Windows 11 or 10 username should update, including the username on any other devices you’ve signed into with the same Microsoft account. The name in your email account and other Microsoft services will also change.
How toChange the Local Account Username in Windows 11
If you have a local account in Windows 11 or 10, you can pick one of three methods to change the user name. These involve the following:
The most convenient way to change a username for a local account is through theControl Panel in Windows 11 and 10. Just:
If youown the Pro edition of Windows 11 or 10, you can use the Computer Management applet to change a local user account name. Here’s how:
The User Accounts dialog (or netplwiz) also makes it possible to change and update your username in Windows 11 and 10. To use it:
How toCreate a New User Accountin Windows 11
If you want to clear any traces of the previous username, you can alwayscreate a new Windows user accountwith a new username.
Note: You can also give the account administrator privileges to move your files. To do that, select the user account you just created from within the Settings app’sOther Usersscreen, selectChange account type, and setAccount typetoAdministrator.
Don’t Stay Tied To One Username
Windows usernames need not be cast in stone. If you want to change it, you can do that without jumping through too many hoops. So, were you able to change your username on Windows 11 or 10 using the methods above? Please share with us in a comment below.
Elsie is a technology writer and editor with a special focus on Windows, Android and iOS. She writes about software, electronics and other tech subjects, her ultimate goal being to help people out with useful solutions to their daily tech issues in a simple, straightforward and unbiased style. She has a BCom degree in Marketing and currently pursuing her Masters in Communications and New Media.Read Elsie’s Full Bio
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