How to change the Windows 10 username? Step by step

Setting the 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 can’t be denied that the ability to set a username or profile picture increases the comfort of using the system purely from a UX perspective: we like to feel that the system elements are “ours” and tailored to individual preferences.

It is worth remembering that Microsoft distinguishes between a local account (existing only on the computer where the system is installed) and a Microsoft account, linked to the local account but stored on Microsoft servers and used for services like OneDrive cloud, settings synchronization, and many additional features. This article covers both types of accounts. How to change the Windows 10 account name? Enjoy the reading!

How to change the Windows 10 account name? Local account

Changing the Windows 10 username on a local account is very simple. The instructions are below. on a local account is very simple. Instructions are below.

First, you need to go to the menu Start → Control Panel.

Then in the Control Panel click User Accounts, and the following panel will appear.

In Windows 11, the sequence looks the same: Start -> Control Panel -> User Accounts.

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

After entering the new username, the local account will be displayed under the new name. That’s all!

Also, in the menu Settings -> Accounts -> Your info the local name is displayed in the changed form.

How to change the Windows 10 account name? Microsoft account

Changing data on a Microsoft account must be done through the Microsoft website. It cannot be done from the system settings. You can enter in the browser address bar the URL https://account.microsoft.com or use the following path: Settings → Accounts → Your info → Manage my Microsoft account. https://account.microsoft.com or use the following path: Settings → Accounts → Your info → Manage my Microsoft account.

Then the Microsoft website will open where you need to log in. After entering your login and password, you need to click Your info – the button is located at the top of the menu on the left side.

After entering Your info the next step will be to click Edit name on the right side.

Besides entering your data, you need to enter the characters from the captcha code (this is a protection against 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 configured on both Win 10 and Win 11 – regardless of the system edition (Windows Home, Pro, etc.).

Where is the best place to buy Windows?

Product keys for Windows systems can be purchased at the Key-Soft.pl store. These are original keys for digital editions of the system with full manufacturer support – among them you will find both Windows 10 in various versions (Home, Professional, Enterprise), as well as Windows 11. Choose a trusted seller and get a Windows key now!

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

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

Is a Microsoft account free?

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

Do I have to create a Microsoft account? Is it worth it?

A Microsoft account is required when installing Windows 11. Using online guides, it can be bypassed to some extent, but the full comfort of system operation is achieved by having a connected account. Via the MS account, cloud OneDrive, Outlook mail, and access to apps in the Microsoft Store are handled. The account also enables synchronizing settings and Microsoft Edge browsing history across multiple devices. 

You also use the Microsoft account to log into paid services after purchase – including Microsoft 365 and Xbox Game Pass.

On the Microsoft account, you can also deactivate old devices (for example, in case of computer modifications) to transfer the system onto new hardware. However, this depends on the specific system license.