How to Change the Administrator Name on Windows 10
Changing the administrator account name in Windows 10 is one of those small tweaks you didn’t realise you needed until you try it. Whether it’s to look a bit more professional or just for a bit of fun, here’s how to do it. It sounds straightforward, but there are a few quirky steps along the way.
First up, open the Start menu and start typing Control Panel. Hit Enter when it appears. It’s like a gateway to most system settings. If you prefer jumping directly, the search feature is your best mate here. Alternatively, press Windows + R, type in control, and hit Enter. Because honestly, who’s got time to trawl through all the menus?
Next, click on User Accounts. This is where you’ll see all your user profiles. Click it again. It can feel a bit odd double-clicking the same option, but that’s just Windows for you. Here, you’ll see the names of your user accounts, including the ones you might have forgotten about and the one you want to rename.
Then, select Manage another account. Think of this like browsing the family album of all the user accounts on your PC. Make sure you’re logged in as an administrator, otherwise you won’t be able to make changes. Once you see all the accounts, click on the one you want to rename. If it’s linked to a Microsoft account, keep in mind that changing the name here won’t update your online profile — that’s a separate process.
Now, click on Change the account name. Enter your preferred new name and click the Change Name button. That’s pretty much it! From now on, the new name will show up during login and in the Start menu. If it’s a local account, only the display name changes. For Microsoft accounts, the name on their website remains separate.
Quick Tips for Managing Windows 10 User Accounts
Before making any changes, ensure you have administrator privileges. Typos can be a hassle, so double-check your new name. Back up important files just to be safe. And if your account is linked to Microsoft, remember that the name change will reflect across all linked Microsoft services.
If you need to switch your account to an administrator level, go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users. Select the account, then click Change account type. Not too tricky. Alternatively, if you prefer the command line, you can enable or disable the administrator account by running this command as an administrator:
net user Administrator /active:yesNote: On some older setups, the account may be named Administrator instead of Administrateur.
FAQs About Changing the Administrator Name
Can I change the name without a password?
Generally not. You’ll need administrator privileges, which usually require a password. This is Windows’ way of keeping your system safe from unauthorised changes.
Will changing the account name affect my files?
Not at all. Your files are stored under that user profile and will stay exactly where they are. Only the displayed name changes. Everything remains intact!
Can I revert to the original name later?
Absolutely. Just follow the same steps and choose your previous name — it’s a breeze.
Will this impact other user accounts?
Nope. Each account is independent, so changing one won’t affect others.
Do I need to restart my PC after renaming?
No need to reboot. The new name will appear immediately.
Personalising your PC by renaming the administrator account is quick and adds a nice touch of personality. It’s like putting your stamp on your machine, making everyday use a little more yours. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you might find yourself tinkering with more settings. Explore those customisation options and give your PC the personal touch it deserves. Just a few simple steps, but they can make your setup feel a lot more at home.