Will changing username mess up paths?

[AussieColin]

When I first installed Win 7 I simply went with the default user name of "Owner". I wouldn't mind changing it now but I'm concerned about the effect on my shortcuts and so on.

If I rename it, will Windows go through and automatically update all the shortcuts and program paths and so on? My gut reaction is "Of course it will" but I've learned to be cautious with Windows! Will I end up with a lot of tidying up to do?

 

[MacGyvr]

Only the username will be changed. The c:\users\<username> path does not get changed and this can lead to more confusion.

Better method:

1) Create two new accounts. One in the username you want, and one temporary...you can even call it TEMP if you like.

2) Log in as TEMP. Use Windows Easy Transfer to migrate all files and settings from your old account to the new one you just created.

3) When this is complete, log in as your new user and make sure everything is there and working.

4) Delete your old user and TEMP.

 

[AussieColin]

Thanks! That does make sense. I must admit that it surprises me that the path isn't changed automatically but I suppose they decided that there was no way they were going to catch every instance of its use so there was no point in trying.

I think I need to wonder whether the work involved is worth the name change!

 

[MacGyvr]

It sounds involved, but depending on how much you have in files, it really shouldn't take long.