Changing the username on the Windows 10 logon screen is a common need for many users. Whether you recently changed your username or bought a second-hand computer with someone else’s username still displayed, it’s important to have your own username shown on the logon screen for security and personalization purposes. In this blog post, we will explore various methods to change the username on the Windows 10 logon screen and provide step-by-step instructions for each method.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change the Username on Windows 10 Logon Screen
There are several reasons why you might want to change the username displayed on the Windows 10 logon screen. Here are a few key reasons:
1. Privacy: If you share your computer with others or use it in a public setting, having your username displayed can be a privacy concern. Changing the username on the logon screen can help protect your personal information.
2. Personalization: Customizing the logon screen with your own username adds a personal touch to your computer. It creates a sense of ownership and allows you to express your individuality.
3. Security: Having the correct username displayed on the logon screen ensures that you are logging in to the correct user account. It helps prevent unauthorized access and minimizes the risk of accidental logins to the wrong account.
Now that we understand why changing the username on the Windows 10 logon screen is important, let’s explore four different methods to accomplish this task.
Method 1: Change Username via User Accounts
Before we proceed with this method, it’s important to note that changing the username using this method will also change it throughout the entire operating system, not just on the logon screen.
1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "netplwiz" (without quotes) and press Enter.
3. The User Accounts window will appear. Select the user account for which you want to change the username.
4. Click on the "Properties" button.
5. In the "User Name" field, enter the new username you want to display on the logon screen.
6. Click OK to save the changes.
7. Restart your computer to see the updated username on the logon screen.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and straightforward process to change the username. | 1. Changes the username throughout the entire operating system, which may not be desired in all cases. |
| 2. Allows for a consistent username change across multiple areas in Windows 10. | 2. Requires administrative access to make changes. |
| 3. Can be used to rename the user account and update the associated user profile folder. | 3. May require setting up new user settings and preferences after changing the username. |
Method 2: Change Username via Local Group Policy Editor
The Local Group Policy Editor is a powerful tool that allows users to make system-wide changes, including customizing the logon screen username.
1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "gpedit.msc" (without quotes) and press Enter.
3. In the Local Group Policy Editor, navigate to "Computer Configuration" > "Windows Settings" > "Security Settings" > "Local Policies" > "Security Options".
4. Scroll down and double-click on "Interactive logon: Do not display last user name".
5. Select the "Enabled" option and click OK.
6. Close the Local Group Policy Editor.
7. Restart your computer to see the changes on the logon screen.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Allows for customization of the logon screen without changing the username throughout the entire operating system. | 1. Requires accessing the Local Group Policy Editor, which is not available on all Windows 10 editions. |
| 2. Provides an additional layer of privacy by not displaying any username on the logon screen. | 2. Does not allow for a personalized logon screen username. |
| 3. Does not affect the user account name or associated user profile folder. | 3. May require additional steps to display the username again if desired. |
Method 3: Change Username via Registry Editor
If you prefer to make changes directly in the Windows Registry, this method allows you to customize the logon screen username.
1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "regedit" (without quotes) and press Enter.
3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon.
4. Look for the "DefaultUserName" entry on the right-hand side.
5. Double-click on "DefaultUserName" and enter the new username you want to display on the logon screen.
6. Close the Registry Editor.
7. Restart your computer to see the changes on the logon screen.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Allows for customization of the logon screen username without changing the username throughout the entire operating system. | 1. Requires accessing the Registry Editor, which can be risky if not done properly. |
| 2. Provides greater control over logon screen customization compared to other methods. | 2. Incorrect changes in the Registry can cause system instability or even prevent Windows from booting. |
| 3. Does not affect the user account name or associated user profile folder. | 3. May require additional steps to display the username again if desired. |
Method 4: Change Username via Third-Party Software
If you are not comfortable making changes in the Windows settings or Registry, there are third-party software options available that can help you customize the logon screen username.
1. Research and choose a reliable third-party software solution that allows for logon screen customization.
2. Download and install the selected software on your computer.
3. Launch the software and follow the provided instructions to customize the logon screen username.
4. Save the changes and restart your computer to see the updated username on the logon screen.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Offers a user-friendly interface for logon screen customization without the need to access Windows settings or Registry. | 1. Requires downloading and installing additional software, which may not be desired by all users. |
| 2. Provides additional customization options beyond just changing the logon screen username. | 2. Some third-party software options may be paid or require a subscription. |
| 3. Does not affect the user account name or associated user profile folder. | 3. May not be as flexible or comprehensive as manual customization options. |
What to Do If You Can’t Change the Username on Windows 10 Logon Screen
If you encounter any difficulties or are unable to change the username on the Windows 10 logon screen using the methods mentioned above, here are a few fixes you can try:
1. Ensure you have administrative access: Some methods may require administrative access to make changes. Make sure you are logged in with an administrator account.
2. Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues. Restart your computer and try again.
3. Update Windows 10: Keeping your operating system up to date can fix many bugs and issues. Check for any available updates and install them.
4. Use an alternative method: If one method doesn’t work, try another method from the ones mentioned earlier in this blog post.
Bonus Tips
Here are three bonus tips to enhance your experience when changing the username on the Windows 10 logon screen:
1. Keep your username unique: Choose a username that is easy to remember and unique to you. This helps differentiate your account from others and adds an extra layer of security.
2. Customize the logon screen background: Along with changing the username, you can also personalize the logon screen background by selecting an image or setting a slideshow of your preferred pictures.
3. Secure your account with a strong password: Changing the username is just one aspect of securing your account. Remember to set a strong password that includes a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I change the username on the logon screen without administrator access?
A: No, changing the username on the logon screen usually requires administrative access to make changes in Windows settings or the Registry.
Q2: Will changing the username on the logon screen affect my user account settings or files?
A: Changing the username on the logon screen should not affect your user account settings or files. It primarily changes the display name on the logon screen.
Q3: What happens if I forget my new username after changing it?
A: If you forget your new username after changing it, you can still log in to your user account using your old username or the associated email address. From there, you can update the username again.
Q4: Are there any risks involved in changing the logon screen username using the Registry Editor method?
A: Yes, editing the Windows Registry can be risky if not done properly. Incorrect changes can cause system instability or prevent Windows from booting. Proceed with caution and back up your Registry before making any changes.
Q5: Can I revert back to the default logon screen username after changing it?
A: Yes, you can revert back to the default logon screen username by following the same methods mentioned earlier and entering the original username.
Final Thoughts
Customizing the username on the Windows 10 logon screen is a simple yet effective way to personalize your computer and enhance privacy and security. Whether you choose to change the username through user accounts, the Local Group Policy Editor, the Registry Editor, or third-party software, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and make backups if necessary. Remember to keep your username unique and secure, and enjoy the personalized logon screen experience on your Windows 10 computer.