Windows 11 provides several ways to manage user accounts, allowing you to update your personal details, switch between different users, or set up new accounts. The "registered user" can refer to your Microsoft account profile, a local account on your PC, or simply the active user logged into the system.
Here's how to change the registered user in Windows 11, covering various interpretations of the question:
1. Updating Your Microsoft Account Information (Primary Registered User Details)
If you're looking to change the personal details associated with your primary Windows 11 account, such as your name, profile picture, or other contact information, you'll typically do this through your Microsoft account settings online. These changes will sync across all Microsoft services linked to that account.
Follow these steps to access your Microsoft account settings:
- Click on the Start button on the taskbar and select the Settings icon (gear icon) from the left-hand side menu.
- In the Settings menu, select "Accounts."
- From the "Accounts" menu, select "Your info" from the left-hand side menu.
- Click on the "Manage my Microsoft Account" link.
Clicking "Manage my Microsoft Account" will open your default web browser and take you to the official Microsoft account website. From there, you can:
- Change your name: Navigate to the "Your info" section and select "Edit name" to modify your display name.
- Update your profile picture: Click on your current profile picture to upload a new one.
- Manage security settings: Update your password, set up two-step verification, or review recent activity.
- Review devices: See which devices are linked to your Microsoft account.
Changes made on the Microsoft account website will typically reflect on your Windows 11 PC after a short period or the next time you sign in.
2. Switching to a Different User Account on Your PC
If multiple users have accounts set up on your Windows 11 PC, you can easily switch between them without needing to log out completely. This keeps each user's applications and files separate.
To switch to another user:
- Click the Start button on the taskbar.
- Click on your current user profile icon at the bottom left of the Start menu.
- From the options that appear, select "Switch user."
- You will be taken to the lock screen, where you can choose the desired user account and sign in.
3. Adding a New User Account or Managing Existing Accounts
To allow another person to use your PC with their own settings, files, and a separate profile, or to change the type of an existing account, you can manage user accounts through the Settings app.
How to Add a New User Account:
- Open Settings by pressing
Win + I
on your keyboard. - Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
- Under the "Other users" section, click the "Add account" button.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to either link a new Microsoft account or create a local user account.
How to Change an Account Type (Standard vs. Administrator):
- Open Settings (
Win + I
). - Navigate to Accounts > Family & other users.
- Click on the user account you wish to modify.
- Select "Change account type."
- From the dropdown menu, choose between "Administrator" (full control over the PC) or "Standard User" (limited access for daily use).
4. Changing a Local Account Name (Without a Microsoft Account)
If you are using a local account (an account not linked to a Microsoft Account), the process to change the display name on your PC is slightly different and can be done via the Control Panel or Computer Management.
Using Control Panel:
- Open Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
- Go to User Accounts > User Accounts.
- Click on the "Change your account name" link.
- Enter the new name you wish to use and click "Change Name."
Using Computer Management (Advanced):
- Right-click the Start button and select "Computer Management" from the context menu.
- In the Computer Management window, navigate to Local Users and Groups > Users in the left-hand pane.
- Right-click the specific local account you want to rename in the center pane.
- Select "Rename" from the context menu and type the new name, then press Enter.
Summary of User Management Actions
Action | Primary Purpose | Location / Steps |
---|---|---|
Update Microsoft Account Info | Change profile name, picture, security, and other details for your main user. | Settings > Accounts > Your info > Manage my Microsoft Account (opens web browser) |
Switch User | Log into a different existing user profile on the PC. | Start button > User profile icon > Switch user |
Add New User | Create a new, separate profile for another individual or for specific tasks. | Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add account |
Change Account Type | Elevate or demote user privileges (Administrator or Standard User). | Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Select user > Change account type |
Change Local Account Name | Rename a user profile that is not linked to a Microsoft Account. | Control Panel > User Accounts > User Accounts > Change your account name (or Computer Management) |
By understanding these different methods, you can effectively manage the "registered user" experience on your Windows 11 device, ensuring your system is personalized and secure for all users.