Technology
How to Rename a Folder in Windows, Safely and Effectively
How to Rename a Folder in Windows, Safely and Effectively
Renaming a folder in the C:Users directory can be a confusing task, especially when attempting to use the REN command on the Command Prompt (CMD) results in errors. In this guide, we will explore alternative methods to safely and effectively rename your user folder in Windows.
Why Renaming C:Users is Not Recommended
Modifying the C:Users folder directly is not advised due to its critical role in storing user profiles. Any changes to this folder can compromise system performance and lead to data loss. Attempting to rename this folder through the REN command will likely result in an error message, as shown below:
Error message when renaming C:Users folderInstead, consider creating a new folder with the desired name and moving your files to it. This method ensures that your system remains stable and your data is safe.
Method 1: Creating a New User Profile Account
Creating a new user profile account is a robust and secure way to get a new user folder name while preserving your current settings and files. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Create a New User Profile: Open Settings > Accounts > Family Other users > Add someone else to this PC > I don't have this person's sign-in information > Add a user without a Microsoft account > Create a local account.
Create Backup of Important Files: Before making any changes, back up your important files to an external hard drive, flash drive, or cloud storage service (e.g., OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox).
Move and Copy Files: Once the new account is created, move your files from the original folder to the new one. After this process, you can delete the files and the original folder.
Delete the Old User Account: Sign out of your current account, then delete it from the Settings > Accounts > Family Other users > Manage other users > Delete a user.
Sign In with New Account: Sign in with your new user profile and set it as your default with your Microsoft account.
Method 2: Editing the ProfileImagePath Key in Registry Editor
Editing the registry to change the user folder name is a more advanced method. This process can be risky, as it involves modifying critical system files. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Back Up Data: Ensure you have a backup of your important files before proceeding.
Create System Restore Point: Go to Control Panel > System and Security > System > System Protection > Create a system restore point.
Open Command Prompt as Admin: Right-click the Start button and select Command Prompt (Admin).
Get User SID: Type wmic useraccount list full and press Enter. Find your username and note its SID value.
Activate Administrator Account: Type net user Administrator /active:yes to activate the administrator account.
Log In as Administrator: Sign out, then log in as the administrator.
Reopen Command Prompt as Admin: Use the same method as before.
Navigate to User Folder: Type cd C:users and Enter.
Renaming the Folder: Use the ren command followed by the old folder name and the new one, ensuring to include any spaces within quotation marks.
Edit ProfileImagePath in Registry: Open Regedit as Admin, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionProfileList{User SID} понравится.
Change the Folder Path: Update the ProfileImagePath key with the new folder path, then click OK.
Restart Your Computer: After logging out and back in, the user folder should reflect the new name.
Conclusion
Both methods have their advantages and risks. The safer and more straightforward route is to create a new user profile account. This method ensures your system remains stable and all your data is safe. However, if you are comfortable with advanced system modifications and wish to avoid creating a new account, editing the registry can be a viable option for renaming your user folder. Always ensure you back up your data before making any changes to your system files.