4 Best Ways to Change User Account Name in Win­dows 10

Whether you’re updating your name, correcting a typo, or just prefer something different, changing the user account name in Windows 10 is easier than you think. Here are four solid ways to get it done, step by step.

1. Change Name via Control Panel

This is the classic method and works well for local accounts.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.
2. Go to User Accounts > User Accounts again.
3. Click Change your account name.
4. Enter the new name and click Change Name.

Note: This doesn’t change your user folder name (that’s more complicated).

2. Change Name via Settings (for Microsoft Accounts)

If you’re signed in with a Microsoft account, you’ll need to update your name online.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info.
2. Click Manage my Microsoft account.
3. A browser will open. Sign in and go to Your info > Edit name.
4. Update your name and save.

The changes will sync with Windows after a short while.

3. Change Name via Netplwiz

This method offers a quick way to update the display name for local accounts.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type netplwiz, and hit Enter.
2. Select your user account and click Properties.
3. In the Full Name field, enter the new name.
4. Click OK, then Apply, then OK again.

Log out and log back in to see the changes.

4. Change Name via Computer Management

This option works only for Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise editions.

Steps:

1. Right-click the Start button and select Computer Management.
2. Go to Local Users and Groups > Users.
3. Right-click your user name and choose Rename.
4. Type the new name and press Enter.

You can also double-click the user and update the Full Name field.

Final Tip

Changing the account name doesn’t change the user profile folder in C:\Users\. If you really need to change that too, it requires creating a new user account and transferring files—best left for advanced users.

Got questions or need help? Drop a comment below!