Renaming the users folder in Windows 10 might seem like a daunting task, but it’s entirely doable. With a few tweaks and some patience, you can have it done in no time. Here’s a quick guide to get you started: You’ll need to create a new local account, transfer your data, and then delete the old account.
How to Rename Users Folder Windows 10
This step-by-step tutorial will walk you through the process of renaming the users folder in Windows 10. Follow along to make sure your user profile is updated correctly.
Step 1: Create a New Local Account
Start by creating a new local account.
Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add someone else to this PC. Choose "I don’t have this person’s sign-in information," then "Add a user without a Microsoft account." Enter a name for the new account and click Next.
Step 2: Change the Account Type
Make the new account an administrator.
Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users. Click on the new account and select "Change account type." Choose "Administrator" and click OK. This ensures you can make system-level changes with the new account.
Step 3: Sign Out and Sign In with New Account
Sign out of your current account and log in with the new account.
Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Sign out. Then, log in with the new account you just created. This allows you to make changes to your old user folder without any restrictions.
Step 4: Rename the Old User Folder
Navigate to the old user folder location and rename it.
Go to C:Users and find your old user folder. Right-click on it and choose Rename. Change the name to whatever you want. Be mindful that this is a crucial step and needs to be done carefully to avoid losing data.
Step 5: Modify the Registry
Update the registry to reflect the new folder name.
Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionProfileList. Find the profile with the old folder name, double-click ProfileImagePath, and update it to the new folder name.
Step 6: Transfer Data
Move your data from the old folder to the new one.
Copy all necessary files from the old user folder to the new one. This ensures nothing is left behind and all your settings, documents, and applications work as they did before.
Step 7: Delete the Old Account
Remove the old account to clean up.
Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users. Click on the old account and select Remove. This will delete the old account but keep your data intact in the renamed folder.
Once you complete these steps, Windows 10 will use the renamed user folder for your user profile. You’ll notice that all your settings, documents, and apps are just as you left them, but the folder name has changed.
Tips for Renaming Users Folder Windows 10
- Always create a backup of important files before starting the process.
- Make sure to use an administrator account to perform these changes.
- Don’t rush; take your time to follow each step carefully.
- Use a consistent naming convention to avoid confusion later.
- Double-check the registry changes to make sure they point to the correct new folder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rename the users folder without creating a new account?
No, you need to create a new account and transfer your data to avoid system errors.
What happens if I skip the registry step?
Skipping the registry step can cause your user profile to become inaccessible.
Will my apps work after renaming the users folder?
Yes, as long as you transfer all related data and update the registry correctly.
Can I rename the users folder again if needed?
Yes, but you’ll need to repeat the entire process to ensure system stability.
Is it safe to delete the old account after renaming the folder?
Yes, as long as you’ve transferred all necessary data to the new account.
Summary
- Create a new local account.
- Change the account type.
- Sign out and sign in with the new account.
- Rename the old user folder.
- Modify the registry.
- Transfer data.
- Delete the old account.
Conclusion
Renaming the users folder in Windows 10 might seem like a tough nut to crack, but breaking it down into simple steps makes it manageable. By following this guide, you ensure that your user profile is updated without losing any data or functionality. Remember, patience is key. If you’re ever in doubt, there’s always the option to search for further reading or consult a professional.
For anyone looking to personalize their Windows experience or reorganize their systems, knowing how to rename the users folder Windows 10 offers a handy skill. It’s like giving your computer a little spring cleaning. So, dive in, follow the steps, and take control of your user profiles today!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.