How to Change Your Display Name in Windows 11
Changing your display name in Windows 11 lets you update the name seen on your sign-in screen, in the Start Menu, and within the Settings app.
This display name is different from your account login name. For a Microsoft account, it often uses the name linked to your email, while a local account usually defaults to your chosen username.
You have two main ways to change this name: either update your Microsoft account online or adjust your local account settings directly within Windows 11.
You can change your Windows 11 display name using the Netplwiz tool or the Local Users and Groups console. Open the Run window with Windows key + R, type ‘Netplwiz’ or ‘lusrmgr.msc’, and follow the prompts to edit the ‘Full name’ field for your user account.
Why Change Your Display Name?
You might want to update your display name if you got married, prefer a different name, or want your account to show a professional name instead of a username.
Method 1Using Netplwiz
You can change your display name in Windows 11 using the Netplwiz tool (short for ‘Users Accounts’). This method updates the name shown on your login screen and other places on your computer. To start, press the Windows key and R together to open the Run box. Type ‘Netplwiz’ and press Enter.
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run window.
- Type
Netplwizand press Enter. Or, you can search for “Netplwiz” using Windows search.
- A window will open showing all user accounts on your computer. Click the account you want to change.
- Click the Properties button.
- Under the General tab, you’ll see a box labeled Full name. Delete the current name and type your new display name.
- Click OK to save your changes.
Method 2Using Local Users and Groups Console
If you have administrator rights (permission to make system-wide changes), you can change your display name in Windows 11 using the Local Users and Groups console. This tool offers more control over your user account settings. To open it, press the Windows key and R together to bring up the Run window. Type ‘lusrmgr.msc’ and press Enter.
- Press Windows key + R to open the Run window.
- Type
lusrmgr.mscand press Enter. This opens the Local Users and Groups console.
- In the left panel, click the Users folder to see all accounts.
- Find the account you want to change and double-click it to open it.
- Find the Full name field, delete the current name, and type your new display name.
- Click OK to save your changes.
What Happens After You Change Your Display Name?
Your new display name will show up in several places right away. You'll see it on the Windows Sign-in screen, in the Start Menu, and in your Settings. Other people who share your computer will also see the new name.
Summary
Changing your display name in Windows 11 involves a couple of handy tools: Netplwiz or the Local Users and Groups console. Both methods are quick and result in your updated name appearing on your sign-in screen and in Settings.
Is it possible to change the user name in 🪟 Windows 11?
For a local account, you can use tools like Netplwiz, lusrmgr.msc, or Control Panel. These offer direct access to account settings. For a Microsoft account, update your name on the Microsoft Account website.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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