Can i change my 'user' folder name in windows 11?

Hi, I have recently done a new install of windows 11.
I don't recall the installation asking me for a name for my user folder, but it has set one that's just a partial part of my email address, and I want it to just be my first name.

Is there any way to change this now it's all installed?
Regards
James

james_uk said:

Hi, I have recently done a new install of windows 11.
I don't recall the installation asking me for a name for my user folder, but it has set one that's just a partial part of my email address, and I want it to just be my first name.

Is there any way to change this now it's all installed?
Regards
James

Click to expand...

Control Panel > User Accounts > Change your account name

C:\Windows\System32\control.exe <----- actual Control Panel location







When you open Control Panel for the first time, I recommend you set the "view" (top right), to "small icons"
That way, it will look like it did in the old days...







And just FYI... for example, the 1st tweak, is how to set the right click context menus back to classic view.

Thanks for your reply Ghot.

In User accounts I don't see an option for change account name.


I have tried going into each option and don't see anything that would change it.

James

james_uk said:

Thanks for your reply Ghot.

In User accounts I don't see an option for change account name.

View attachment 65560
I have tried going into each option and don't see anything that would change it.

James

Click to expand...

You "may" have to be on a Local account. I assume you're already on an Administrator account?






Here's the official Win 11 tutorial for this...


And, if needed...



The trick on these forums, is to click on "Tutorials" at the top, then in the tutorials search box, type what you're looking for. You can also use the navigation on the right side...

Yes i am on the 1 account thats active, which is an admin one

james_uk said:

Yes i am on the 1 account thats active, which is an admin one

Click to expand...

Well, you're Win 11 install is probably hooked to your Microsoft Account. I changed mine to a Local Account, long ago.
That may be why I have that setting available.

Is it better in general doing that? If so am i able to change mine to a local account?

james_uk said:

Is it better in general doing that? If so am i able to change mine to a local account?

Click to expand...

See the tutorial(s) in post #4.
I know you can switch back and forth between a Microsoft Account and a Local Account.

Maybe try this... switch to a Local account, change your account name, and then switch back to Microsoft account?

Personally... I don't ever want a Microsoft account tied to my Windows install.
I have a Microsoft account... it's just not associated with Windows 11.

BUT.... I don't have any Microsoft subscription software, and I use backup software religiously.
A quick google search will explain the advantages of having a Microsoft account associated with Win 11.

For me... none of those advantages are a selling point.
Of course, you'll have to decide for yourself.


Microsoft account, yes or no?

MSA vs Local account

I believe this will answer your question. Change Name of User Profile Folder in Windows 11 Tutorial

You need to be aware that if you set up your system as a MS account, your user folders(documents, desktop, pictures) are probably not located on your drive in C:\Users\yourusername as you are accustomed to, but defaulted to Onedrive. You can prove it by opening file explorer, right click on the folder, select properties, location tab.

The folder name is the first few letters of your Outlook or Microsoft username if you account is connected to it. Personally don't understand why people are so bothered with it. I got over it pretty quick lol

I would create a new user with the username you want to use. Give it Admin privileges and when setup and working the way you want you can delete the old user.

Winuser said:

I would create a new user with the username you want to use. Give it Admin privileges and when setup and working the way you want you can delete the old user.

Click to expand...

This! When creating a new account choose that you don't have the info for that user otherwise it will force you to login with a Microsoft Account.

I wouldn't rename the user account folder manually as that will create a lot of problems since programs depend on that folder to store their data.

Also, when you do create a new local account, make sure you watch this video: