How to Change the Name of the User Profile Folder in Windows 11?

The user profile folder in Windows 11 is located in C:\Users and is automatically named during the account creation process. However, there are instances where you might want to rename it—for instance, if it was created with a generic name or an error occurred during setup. Renaming the user profile folder requires some caution, as it is linked to many system settings and applications.

In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to safely change the name of the user profile folder in Windows 11 , step by step, using different methods.

Renaming the user profile folder can help in situations like:

• Correcting a misspelled username.
• Avoiding a generic folder name such as user or admin.
• Aligning the folder name with a new account name for consistency.

Important: Renaming the user profile folder can cause issues if not done correctly. Always create a system backup or restore point before proceeding.

Method 1: Using Advanced System Settings and Registry Editor

This is the most comprehensive method and ensures the folder is properly renamed without breaking system links.

Step 1: Create a New Administrator Account

• Open Settings (Winkey + I) and go to Accounts > Other users.

Windows Settings App

Open Other users from Windows Settings

• Click Add account under Other users.

Click Add Account

• Select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information , then choose Add a user without a Microsoft account.

Click the Next button

Click Add a user without a microsoft account

• Create a new administrator account.

Enter username and password and click Next button

• Log out of your current account and log in with the new administrator account.

Step 2: Rename the User Profile Folder

• Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Users.

The command will list all the available user profiles

• Find the folder corresponding to the user account you want to rename.

Right click on the profile and click the rename option

• Right-click the folder and choose Rename. Enter the new name for the folder.

Step 3: Update the Registry

• Press Winkey + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.

Running Regedit Command in Run Window

• Navigate to:
  • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList
• Find the profile associated with your account by checking the ProfileImagePath value.
• Double-click ProfileImagePath and change it to match the new folder name (e.g., C:\Users\NewName).

Identify the profile using profile image path as shown in the above image

• Click OK and close the Registry Editor.

Step 4: Log Back In

• Log out of the administrator account and log back in to your original account.
• Verify that all applications and files work correctly.

Method 2: Create a New User Account and Transfer Files

If you’re not comfortable editing the registry, you can create a new user account with the desired folder name and transfer your files.

• Open Settings > Accounts > Other users and add a new account.

Click Add Account

• Log into this new account.
• Copy files and folders from the old user profile folder (C:\Users\OldName) to the new one (C:\Users\NewName).

Copying the files from profile 1 to profile 2

• Once the transfer is complete, go to Settings > Accounts > Other users and delete the old account.

Click the Remove button to delete the old profile

Method 3: Using Command Prompt

The Command Prompt offers a technical way to rename the folder. Here’s how:

• Search for cmd in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.

Open Command Prompt using Run as Administrator

• Rename the user folder:
  • rename "C:\Users\OldName" "NewName"

Rename the profile using command prompt

• Update the registry:
  • Open the Registry Editor and navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList.
  • Update the ProfileImagePath value to reflect the new folder name.

Map the Profile Image path to the new profile name in registry editor

• Restart your computer to apply changes.

Method 4: Third-Party Tools

Several third-party tools can simplify the process of renaming the user profile folder by automating file transfers and registry edits. Tools like User Profile Wizard or Windows PC Manager are reliable options for this purpose.

Note: Ensure you download third-party tools from trusted sources to avoid malware risks.

• User Profile Wizard Download Link: https://www.forensit.com/domain-migration.html
• Windows PC Manager Download Link: https://pcmanager.microsoft.com/en-us

Conclusion:

Renaming the user profile folder in Windows 11 can help maintain a clean and organized file structure. By following the methods above, you can safely change the folder name without compromising system functionality. Whether you prefer using the Registry Editor , creating a new account , or third-party tools, these steps ensure a smooth and error-free process.

Frequently ASked Queries:

Will renaming the user profile folder affect my files or settings?

No , your files remain intact. However, improperly renaming the folder can break system links, so follow the steps carefully.

Can I use the same method in Windows 10?

Yes , these methods are also applicable to Windows 10.

Can I rename the user profile folder without creating a new account?

Yes , you can rename it using the Registry Editor and File Explorer, but this requires careful execution to avoid system issues.

What should I do if my account becomes inaccessible after renaming the folder?

Log in using a temporary administrator account, correct the folder name or registry path, and restart the system.

Are third-party tools safe for renaming the user profile folder?

Most tools are safe if downloaded from trusted sources. Always check reviews and verify the source before installation.