Have you ever wanted to change your login name on Windows 11 but didn’t know where to start? Maybe your account name has a typo, or you just want something that better reflects you. Whatever the reason, Windows 11 makes it possible, but there are a few methods depending on whether you’re using a Microsoft account or a local account. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—step by step.
Why Change Your Login Name?
You might wonder, “Why even bother?” Here are some common reasons:
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Correcting a typo in your current account name
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Making your computer more personalized
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Separating personal and work accounts
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Enhancing privacy on shared devices
It’s like changing the name on your mailbox—simple, but it makes things feel right.
Two Types of Accounts in Windows 11
Before we start, it’s important to know which type of account you have:
1. Microsoft Account
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Linked to your email (Outlook, Hotmail, or Live)
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Changes sync across all devices using this account
2. Local Account
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Exists only on your PC
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Doesn’t require an email address
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Changes affect only the current device
The steps to change your login name differ depending on the type.
Method 1: Change Login Name for a Microsoft Account
If you use a Microsoft account, changing your login name is simple:
Step 1: Open Account Settings
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Accounts → Your Info.
Step 2: Go to Microsoft Account Website
Click Manage my Microsoft account, which opens your browser and takes you to the Microsoft account page.
Step 3: Edit Your Name
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On the Microsoft account page, click Your info.
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Select Edit name.
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Enter your new first and last name, then click Save.
Step 4: Restart Windows
Sign out and sign back in. Your login name should now reflect the changes.
Method 2: Change Login Name for a Local Account
If you’re using a local account, there are two ways to change your login name.
Option A: Using Control Panel
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Press Windows + S and search for Control Panel.
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Navigate to User Accounts → User Accounts → Change your account name.
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Type your new account name and click Change Name.
This immediately updates your login name on your PC.
Option B: Using Computer Management
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Press Windows + X and select Computer Management.
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Navigate to Local Users and Groups → Users.
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Right-click your account name and select Rename.
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Type the new name and press Enter.
This method is especially helpful for admin accounts or when multiple users exist.
Method 3: Change Login Name Using Settings App
For some local accounts, Windows 11 allows name changes directly:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Accounts → Family & other users.
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Select your account, then click Change account name.
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Enter the new name and confirm.
Important Tips Before Changing Your Login Name
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Backup your data: While changing a login name is safe, it’s always good to back up important files.
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Admin privileges required: You must be an administrator to change account names.
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Restart your PC: Name changes often require a sign-out or reboot to fully apply.
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Check file paths: Some apps may still reference the old account name in file paths.
What Changing the Login Name Does (and Doesn’t Do)
Changing your login name updates:
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The name shown on the login screen
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Start menu account name
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Account name in Settings
It does not change:
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Your user folder name in C:\Users
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App-specific data that references the old name
If you want to update your user folder too, it requires additional steps (we can cover that in another guide).
Troubleshooting Common Issues
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Name doesn’t change on login screen: Make sure you restarted or signed out completely.
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No “Change name” option: You may be using a Microsoft account; follow the online account method.
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Permission errors: Ensure your account has admin rights.
Conclusion
Changing your login name in Windows 11 is easier than it seems. Whether you’re using a Microsoft account or a local account, Windows gives you multiple ways to update your name. Just remember: changes may not affect your user folder, and a restart is often needed. With these methods, your login screen can finally reflect exactly what you want.
FAQs
1. Can I change my user folder name along with login name?
Not directly. Changing the folder name requires advanced steps like creating a new account or editing registry entries.
2. Do I need admin privileges to change my login name?
Yes, only admins can rename accounts in Windows 11.
3. Will changing my Microsoft account name affect other devices?
Yes, changes sync across all devices using the same Microsoft account.
4. Can I revert back to my old login name?
Absolutely! Just follow the same steps and enter your previous name.
5. Does changing the login name affect files and apps?
No, your files and apps remain intact; only the displayed name changes.