Windows 10 users are familiar with the sign-in screen that displays your name and asks for the PIN or password. What if you need or want to change the display name on that Windows 10 screen?
The steps to complete the change depend on whether you are using a Microsoft account or a local account.
Change Display Name in Microsoft Account
If your account is linked to your Microsoft account, you must make any changes on the Microsoft website. When you change your name in your account, it will change on every device you use to sign in.
1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on “Your info.”
4. Select “Manage my Microsoft account.” A browser window will open.
5. Log in to your account with your username and password.
6. Click on the “More actions” drop-down under your name and email address.
7. Click “Edit profile.”
8. Choose “Edit name” under your name.
9. Make the changes you want to make.
10. Enter the CAPTCHA challenge letters.
11. Click Save.
The next time the Windows sign-in screen appears, your revised name will display.
Change Display Name For Local Users
If you are using a local user account, one that is not attached to a specific Microsoft account, use the Control Panel to change the display name.
1. Type Control panel into the search box on the taskbar and click on the app to open it.
2. Click on “Change account type” under the User accounts section.
3. Select the desired account where you want to change the name.
4. Click on “Change the account name” in the left part of the window.
5. Type the new account name and click “Change name.”
Local and Microsoft Accounts
To change the name on either type of account, you can use a Windows app called Netplwiz.
1. Type netplwiz in the search box on the taskbar and click on the app to open it.
2. Choose the account you want to change.
3. Click on the Properties button.
4. Type the new name you want to use in the Full name field.
5. Click Apply and OK.
Now you have the freedom to change your display name in Windows 10 whenever you choose.
If you want to add a local account to your computer like what was done in this tutorial, read more at How to Create a Guest User Account in Windows 10.
Image credit: MIcrosoft Windows 10 pro installation sign-in by DepositPhotos
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Tracey Rosenberger spent 26 years teaching elementary students, using technology to enhance learning. Now she's excited to share helpful technology with teachers and everyone else who sees tech as intimidating.
Wow great information, I never knew it was this easy to change display name in windows 10. Thanks for this useful information
I changed my display name and now my profile is gone and it only shows Admin at the login screen. Unfortunately l do not know what the password is… What now?