You may alter the user name associated with your Windows user account, but there are multiple methods for doing so depending on the type of account you have. This is how you do it.
How to Change a Microsoft Account Name?
If you have a Microsoft account, you must update your user name on the Microsoft website.
Begin by logging into your Microsoft Account. Edge users will most likely be immediately logged in. You’ll have to log in manually if you don’t use Microsoft Edge as your preferred browser. To reach the page, go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info and then click “Manage My Account.”
How to Change a Local Account Name with Control Panel?
If you’re logged in with a local account, you can alter your user name in a different method. Because the option isn’t present in the Settings App, you’ll have to utilize Control Panel.
First, press the Start button. Then, in the search field, type “Control Panel” and press Enter.
Close the user account screen after clicking “Change Name.”
How to Change a Local Account Name With netplwiz?
You may also use netplwiz to alter your user name. The netplwiz approach is compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
If you’re using a Microsoft account or a local account, you should restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
It’s also worth noting that your user folder will not be renamed or relocated. Windows and many other apps store data and settings in sub-folders of your user folder; as a result, changing the name of your user folder without disrupting things is tough. So, if you changed your user name from Bill to Tom, your user folder will still be “C:\Users\Bill” rather than “C:\Users\Tom.”