The method for changing your Microsoft account depends on what you specifically want to change. There isn't a single action that universally "changes" your entire account. Here's a breakdown of different aspects you might want to modify and how to do it:
1. Switching to a Different Microsoft Account on Your Device
If you want to use a different Microsoft account on your Windows device:
- Select Start.
- Select your user picture or the Accounts icon. This is often located in the Start menu or on the lock screen.
- Select Switch user. This will take you to the sign-in screen.
- Select Other user.
- Enter the credentials (email address and password) for the Microsoft account you want to use.
Note: This option might not be available on all device configurations, especially in enterprise environments managed by an organization.
2. Changing Your Microsoft Account Email Address or Phone Number
If you want to change the primary email address or phone number associated with your Microsoft account:
- Go to the Microsoft account website: Sign in to your account at account.microsoft.com.
- Navigate to Your Info: Click on "Your info" at the top of the page.
- Manage Account Info: Select "Manage how you sign in to Microsoft."
- Add or Remove Aliases: Here, you can add a new email address or phone number alias and then make it the primary alias. You can also remove old aliases.
- To add an alias: Click "Add email" or "Add phone number" and follow the on-screen instructions.
- To make an alias primary: Once you've added an alias, click "Make primary" next to the alias you want to use as your main sign-in.
- To remove an alias: Click "Remove" next to the alias you want to delete. Important: You can't remove the primary alias without first making another alias primary.
Important: When you change your primary alias, it will affect how you sign in to Microsoft services like Outlook, OneDrive, and Xbox.
3. Changing Your Microsoft Account Password
If you want to change your Microsoft account password:
- Go to the Microsoft account website: Sign in to your account at account.microsoft.com.
- Navigate to Security: Click on "Security" at the top of the page.
- Change Password: Select "Change password".
- Follow the on-screen instructions: You'll likely need to verify your identity through an existing email address or phone number.
4. Changing Your Microsoft Account Name
If you want to change the name displayed on your Microsoft account:
- Go to the Microsoft account website: Sign in to your account at account.microsoft.com.
- Navigate to Your Info: Click on "Your info" at the top of the page.
- Edit Name: Select "Edit name."
- Enter your new first and last name, complete the CAPTCHA if prompted, and click "Save."
In summary, "changing" your Microsoft account requires specifying what you intend to change (email, password, name, associated account on a device, etc.). Each of these processes involves different steps, primarily accessible through the Microsoft account website.
