How to Clone a User Profile in Windows 10

Cloning a user in Windows 10 typically means copying an existing user's profile, which contains their settings, files, and configurations, to another user account. While there isn't a simple "clone user account" button that duplicates everything including the user's SID, Windows provides a built-in method to copy a user's profile data.

This process allows you to transfer customized settings and data from one profile to another, which is often used when migrating users or setting up standard profiles.

Using the Built-in Profile Copy Tool

Windows includes a utility, accessible through System Properties, that allows administrators to copy a user profile from one location to another. This is the method referenced in the provided information.

Here are the steps based on the reference:

1. Navigate to the User Profiles settings. This is typically done through System Properties (search for "View advanced system settings", then go to the "Advanced" tab, and click "Settings" under "User Profiles").
2. Under User Profiles, click Settings.
3. Select the profile you want to copy. This is the source profile containing the settings and data you wish to duplicate.
4. Click Copy to, and then enter the name of, or browse to, the profile you want to overwrite.
   • The reference notes that the destination path will usually be in C:\Users\username, where username is the name of the profile to which you are copying.
5. Click OK or apply the changes.

Important Considerations:

• Permissions: Performing this action requires administrator privileges on the computer.
• Destination Profile: The reference specifically mentions copying to a profile you want to overwrite. In practice, this tool is often used to copy a profile to the folder of a new user account before that user logs in for the first time. Copying to an existing user's active profile folder can lead to permission issues or instability.
• What is Copied: This process copies profile data like desktop settings, documents, application settings, and more. It does not duplicate the user account itself or its security identifier (SID).

This method effectively clones the content and settings of a profile, making it available for use by another user account, particularly in scenarios where setting up new accounts with pre-configured environments is needed.