How to Change Login Name on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your login name in Windows 11 is more than just a label—it’s the name you see every time you sign in to your PC, the name that appears on the Start menu, and sometimes even in shared networks. But what if you made a typo when setting it up, or you just want to update it for personal or professional reasons?

Don’t worry—it’s super easy to change your login name on Windows 11. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you multiple methods to update it, whether you’re using a Microsoft account or a local account.

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Why Change Your Login Name in Windows 11?

There are many reasons why you might want to update your login name:

• You entered the wrong name during setup.

• You want a more professional name on your work PC.

• You recently changed your real name.

• You want to personalize your system.

Whatever the reason, Windows 11 gives you a few ways to fix it.

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Method 1: Change Login Name for a Local Account via Control Panel

If you’re using a local account (not linked to Microsoft), this is the simplest way.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S and type Control Panel, then open it.

2. Go to User Accounts > User Accounts.

3. Click on Change your account name.

4. Enter your new login name.

5. Click Change Name to confirm.

Your login name will update the next time you sign in.

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Method 2: Change Login Name via Netplwiz

Another quick way for local accounts is through the advanced user accounts settings.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type netplwiz, and hit Enter.

2. Select your user account from the list.

3. Click Properties.

4. In the User name field, type your new login name.

5. Click Apply → OK, then restart your PC.

This method works great if you want more control over multiple user accounts.

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Method 3: Change Login Name for Microsoft Account

If you sign in with a Microsoft account, your login name is linked to your Microsoft profile.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

2. Navigate to Accounts > Your info.

3. Click Manage my Microsoft account—this opens your Microsoft account page in a browser.

4. Sign in with your credentials if prompted.

5. Under your name, select Edit name.

6. Enter your new first and last name, then save changes.

It may take a few minutes for the new name to sync across your Windows 11 device and Microsoft services.

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Method 4: Change Login Name with Computer Management

Another way is through the Computer Management tool.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X and select Computer Management.

2. Go to Local Users and Groups > Users.

3. Right-click your account and select Rename.

4. Type your new login name and hit Enter.

This instantly updates your account name.

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Method 5: Change Display Name with Registry Editor (Advanced)

⚠ This method is for advanced users—messing up the Registry can cause problems. Make sure to back it up first.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

2. Navigate to:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList


3. Expand each SID key until you find the one with your account name.

4. Double-click ProfileImagePath.

5. Replace the old name in the path with your new login name.

6. Restart your PC.

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Things to Keep in Mind

• Microsoft accounts take longer to update since they sync across devices.

• Changing your login name doesn’t change your folder name in C:\Users (unless you manually rename it, which is risky).

• Always restart your PC after making changes for them to take effect.

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Conclusion

Changing your login name in Windows 11 is simple once you know the right method. Whether you’re on a local account or a Microsoft account, you now have multiple options to update your login name quickly.

So, if your current login name feels outdated, unprofessional, or just not “you” anymore—go ahead and give it a refresh.

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FAQs

1. Will changing my login name affect my password?
No, your password and other login details remain the same.

2. Can I change the user folder name in C:\Users?
Not directly—it requires advanced steps, and it’s risky. It’s better to create a new account if you want a different folder name.

3. How long does it take for a Microsoft account name change to show up?
It may take a few minutes to a few hours, depending on syncing.

4. Can I change my login name back later?
Yes, you can repeat the same steps anytime to switch back.

5. Do I need admin rights to change a login name?
Yes, you’ll need administrator privileges to change account names.

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