In an earlier guide, we explored how to delete or remove accounts from Windows 11. However, sometimes, what you need is a less drastic solution. You may have to change the account name on Windows 11.
Changing names for local and Microsoft accounts is possible, and the new OS offers several options. In this guide, we will walk you through every step. In the end, you may stick to the most practical solution. Let us get to it.
Change Account Name on Windows 11 Using Command Prompt
The Command Prompt is a Windows 11 text-based terminal. It lets you use scripts and commands to interact with the Windows OS. You may use it to edit names for accounts following the steps below:
Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open an elevated Command Prompt.
Step 2: Type the command below, replacing CurrentName with the old account name and NewName with the new account name, then hit Enter.
wmic useraccount where name='CurrentName' rename NewName
Step 3: Reboot the computer and log into the account.
Change Account Name on Windows 11 Using Windows PowerShell
Windows PowerShell is used for task automation and configuration management. You can use scripts on PowerShell to effect changes like name edits for Windows 11 accounts. Here is how to:
Step 1: Type Powershell in Windows search and click the Run as administrator option.
Step 2: Type the command below, replacing CurrentName with the old account name and New Account Name with the new account name, then hit Enter.
Rename-LocalUser -Name “CurrentName” -NewName “New Account Name”
Step 3: Reboot the computer and log into the account.
Change Username on Windows 11 Using Batch Files
A batch file is a text document that holds a series of commands. The Command Line interprets these commands, which may be used to make several changes on a computer. Here is how you use batch files to edit account names on Windows 11:
Step 1: Search for Notepad on Windows Search, and open the app (Any other text editor will do).
Step 2: Enter the script below in the NotePad (replace CurrentName with the old account name and NewName with the new account name).
@echo off
rem Replace CurrentName with the current username
rem Replace NewName with the new username
wmic useraccount where name='CurrentName' rename 'NewName'
echo The user account name has been changed to NewName.
Step 3: Click File, then Save as.
Step 4: Give it any name, but append .bat to the end, then save the file.
Step 5: Right-click the bat file and select Run as administrator, and your account name should be changed to the new name.
Change Windows 11 Account Name Using the Local User and Group Management Tool
As the name implies, the Windows 11 Management Tool utility is an MMC or Microsoft Management Console snap-in that allows users to configure and update user profiles. Here is how to use it to update account names:
Step 1: Right-click on the Start menu and select Computer Management.
Step 2: Expand System Tools, Local Users and Groups, then click on Users.
Step 3: Right-click on the account and select Rename.
Change Account Name on Windows 11 From the Netplwiz Command
Netplwiz or Network Place Wizard is a command line utility that can be used for user account management on Windows 11. Use the steps below to update your account name:
Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Step 2: Input netplwiz and hit Enter.
Step 3: Click the user and click the Properties button.
Step 4: Change the name under User name, then click Apply and OK.
Step 5: Log out and re-log in, and you should have a new username.
Change Windows 11 Account Name From the Control Panel
The Command Prompt is a Central location where you can manage Windows 11 Settings. It includes several applets, some of which can manage user profiles. Here is how to edit account names using the Control Panel.
Step 1: Type cpl in Windows Search and click on Control Panel.
Step 2: Click User Accounts.
Step 3: Click the Remove user account option.
Step 4: Click on the account and click the Change the account name option.
Step 5: Enter a new name and click Change Name.
Step 6: Lastly, sign out and back in for changes to take effect.
Change Account Name on Windows 11 From the Settings App
The Windows Settings app is a central repository for tweaking System settings. Windows 11 replaces several applets from the Windows 10 Control Panel. You may use it to change account names using the steps below:
Step 1: Press Windows + I to open the Settings App.
Step 2: Click Accounts on the left pane, then on the right, click Your info.
Step 3: Under Related Settings, click Accounts, which will direct you to the Microsoft website.
Step 4: Click Your info at the top left, select the Edit name option, fill out the form, and click Save.
Step 5: Restart the computer.
FAQ on the Changing Account Name Windows 11
1. Can I change my Windows account name?
Yes, you may change your account name using any of the solutions offered in this guide.
2. Why is my Microsoft account name not changing?
If you tried the steps and the name is not changing, log out of the account and restart your computer; the display name may not change immediately.
3. Does my Microsoft account have to be my real name?
No, it does not have to be your real name. It would be best if you used whatever name you are comfortable with.
Using an Edited Windows 11 Account
If you need an account change of name, Windows 11 comes with several options. We have given solutions in no particular order and expect you to use whichever seems the most appropriate.
If you have other ways to change your Windows 11 account name, please leave a remark in the comment section below.