Changing the admin name on your MacBook might seem daunting, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. In a nutshell, you’ll need to log in as an administrator, navigate to the ‘Users & Groups’ section in ‘System Preferences,’ unlock it, then right-click on the admin name you want to change and follow the prompts.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Change Admin Name on MacBook
Before we start, be aware that changing the admin name will not affect the home folder name. You’ll be changing how the name appears on the login screen and in various parts of the system.
Step 1: Log in as an Administrator
Log into your MacBook as an admin user.
Only an administrator has the rights to change other admin names, so make sure you’re logged in with the correct credentials.
Step 2: Open ‘System Preferences’
Go to the Apple menu and select ‘System Preferences.’
This is where you can adjust most settings on your MacBook, including user accounts.
Step 3: Select ‘Users & Groups’
Click on the ‘Users & Groups’ icon in ‘System Preferences.’
Here, you’ll find a list of all the user accounts on your MacBook.
Step 4: Unlock ‘Users & Groups’
Click the lock icon at the bottom left and enter your admin password to make changes.
You must unlock this section to make any changes to user accounts.
Step 5: Right-Click on the Admin Name
Right-click on the admin name you want to change and select ‘Advanced Options.’
Be careful in this section as changing the wrong settings can affect account accessibility.
Step 6: Change the ‘Full Name’
In the ‘Advanced Options’ window, change the ‘Full Name’ to the new admin name you want.
This will change how the name appears on the login screen and in system settings.
After you complete these steps, the admin name on your MacBook will be changed. Keep in mind that this only changes the display name and not the account’s home folder name.
Tips for Changing Admin Name on MacBook
- Always back up your MacBook before making changes to system settings.
- Avoid changing the ‘Account name’ or ‘Home directory’ fields in ‘Advanced Options’ unless you’re experienced with macOS.
- Be aware that some applications may still display the old admin name if they were installed under that name.
- Consider creating a new admin account if you want a completely fresh start with a new name.
- Remember that changing the admin name does not affect the login credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between ‘Full Name’ and ‘Account name’?
The ‘Full Name’ is how the name displays on the login screen, while the ‘Account name’ is used by the system for home folder and in Terminal.
Can I change the home folder name to match the new admin name?
Yes, but it’s a more complex process and not recommended for novice users.
Will changing the admin name affect my files or applications?
No, changing the admin name does not affect the files or applications associated with the account.
What if I forget the admin password?
If you forget the admin password, you can reset it using your Apple ID or by rebooting into Recovery Mode.
Can I change the admin name to something that’s already in use?
No, each user account must have a unique name.
Summary
- Log in as an administrator.
- Open ‘System Preferences.’
- Select ‘Users & Groups.’
- Unlock ‘Users & Groups.’
- Right-click on the admin name.
- Change the ‘Full Name.’
Conclusion
Whether you’re personalizing a new MacBook or updating an existing one, changing the admin name is a simple process that can help make your device feel like it’s truly yours. Remember, the key points are to ensure you’re logged in as an administrator, proceed with caution, and understand that this change is mostly cosmetic. If you’re ever unsure about changing system settings on your MacBook, consult with a professional or refer to Apple’s support resources. With this guide, you should be able to confidently change your MacBook admin name and make your user experience a little more personal.