How Can I Change My Username?

When logging on to a PC or Mac computer, you typically enter the username and password that you selected when you originally configured your computer. However, if you wish to change the username that you use to log in, you can edit your account settings and have the changes take effect immediately.

Using Windows Control Panel

On a PC computer running Windows XP or later, the easiest way to change a username is through the operating system's control panels. When you open the "User Accounts" control panel, you will see an option called "Change an account." After selecting which account you want to change, there will be a link for changing your username. When you click on this link, you will have an opportunity to change your username.

Using Computer Management

If you would rather manually change your username in the operating system's internal settings, you can use the "Computer Management" utility program, which is found in the "Administrative Tools" folder. When you click on the "Local Users and Groups" icon on the left side of the window, you will see a list of all the accounts currently set up on the computer. From there, you can right-click on your account and choose the "Rename" option. Then enter a new username and save it.

Mac Usernames

For Mac users, all account settings, including username selections, are configured in the "System Preferences" program. When you launch System Preferences, navigate to the "Accounts" control panel and then highlight your account from the list on the left side of the window. After that, you will see an editable field labeled "Username." Enter a new username in this field and then close the System Preferences window to save the settings.

References

• Change Your Username