How do I change my Windows 10 username? Step by step

Setting a computer username is a very useful feature. It allows you to distinguish your own profile from others if multiple people use the same device. It’s also undeniable that the ability to set a username or profile picture enhances the user experience: we like to feel that system elements are “ours” and tailored to our individual preferences.

It’s worth noting that Microsoft distinguishes between a local account (which exists only on the computer where the operating system is installed) and a Microsoft account, which is linked to the local account but is hosted on Microsoft’s servers and used for services such as OneDrive, settings synchronization, and many other features. In this article, we’ll cover both types of accounts. How do I change the name of a Windows 10 account? Enjoy the read!

How do I change the name of a Windows 10 account? Local account

Changing your Windows 10 username on a local account is very simple. Instructions are provided below.

First, go to the menu Start → Control Panel.

Next, in the control panel, click User Accounts, and the following panel will appear.

In Windows 11, kThe order is the same: Home -> Control Panel -> User accounts.

So, when it comes to Windows 10, how do you change your username? In the User Accounts , click Change your account nameto display the panel below.

Once you enter the new username, the local account will appear under the new name. That's it!

Also in the menu Settings -> Accounts -> Your information The local name is displayed in a modified form.

How do I change my Windows 10 account name? Microsoft account

You must update your Microsoft account information through the Microsoft website. This cannot be done through the system settings. So, enter the following address in your web browser’s address bar https://account.microsoft.com or use the following path: Settings → Accounts → Your Information → Manage my Microsoft account.

A Microsoft page will then open where you need to sign in. After entering your username and password, click Your Information — the button is located at the top of the menu on the left.

After entering your information the next step is to click Edit Name on the right-hand side.

In addition to entering your information, you must enter the characters from the CAPTCHA (this is a security measure to prevent bots).

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Will a Microsoft account work with Windows 10 and Windows 11?

Yes, a Microsoft account is universal and can be set up on both Windows 10 and Windows 11—regardless of the edition (Windows Home, Pro, etc.).

Where is the best place to buy Windows?

You can purchase Windows product keys at Key-Soft.pl. These are genuine keys for digital editions of the operating system that come with full manufacturer support—you’ll find among them Windows 10 in various editions (Home, Professional, Enterprise), as well as Windows 11. Choose a trusted seller and get your Windows key today!

Will changing the name of a Windows 10 (local) account affect my Microsoft account?

No, a local account can be linked to a Microsoft account, but changes made to the local account do not affect the account on live.com.

Is a Microsoft account free?

Yes, you can create a Microsoft account without having to pay any fees or link a credit card.

Do I need to create a Microsoft account? Is it worth doing?

A Microsoft account is required to install Windows 11. While it is possible to bypass this requirement to some extent by following online guides, you’ll get the full experience of the system only if you have a linked account. A Microsoft account provides access to services such as OneDrive, Outlook, and apps in the Microsoft Store. It also allows you to sync your settings and browsing history in Microsoft Edge across multiple devices. 

You also use your Microsoft account to sign in to paid services after purchasing them—including Microsoft 365 and Xbox Game Pass.

You can also deactivate an old device in your Microsoft account (for example, if you upgrade your computer) in order to transfer the operating system to new hardware. However, this depends on the specific operating system license.