How to Change the Name of Your User Account in Windows 11

When you first turn on a Windows 11 computer, the operating system uses the first name associated with your Microsoft Account to create your local user profile. This name appears boldly on the lock screen every time you boot up the machine and on the Start menu. If your name is misspelled, you recently changed your legal name, or you simply want the computer to display a more professional title (like “Administrator” or “Guest”), you can easily change it.

Method 1: Changing a Local Account Name

If you set up your Windows 11 PC using an offline, local account (meaning you did not sign in with an email address), changing the name is incredibly fast.

1. Click the Start button and type Control Panel, then hit Enter.
2. Under the “User Accounts” category, click on Change account type.
3. Click on the specific user profile you want to rename.
4. Click the Change the account name link on the left side of the window.
5. Type the brand new name exactly as you want it to appear on the lock screen.
6. Click the Change Name button to save.

Method 2: Changing a Microsoft Account Name

If you log into Windows 11 using a Microsoft Account (an Outlook or Hotmail email address), Windows automatically syncs your name from the cloud. You cannot change it via the Control Panel; you must change it online.

1. Open the Settings app (Windows Key + I).
2. Click on Accounts in the left-hand sidebar, then click Your info.
3. Under the “Related settings” section, click on Accounts (Manage my account). This will open a web browser and take you to Microsoft’s website.
4. Sign in if prompted.
5. Click on the Your info tab at the top of the webpage.
6. Click Edit name.
7. Type your new First and Last name, solve the security captcha, and click Save.

Because this relies on cloud syncing, you will need to restart your Windows 11 PC for the new name to officially appear on your lock screen.