How to Change the Default User Account Picture in Windows: Step-by-Step Guide

Key Notes

  • Easily update your user profile image using the Settings app.
  • Replace default images via the User Account Pictures folder for customization.
  • Remove or restore account pictures using your Microsoft account dashboard.

How to Effectively Change Your User Account Picture in Windows

When setting up a user account on Windows, a default profile picture is automatically assigned. This guide will teach you how to modify this image, enabling you to personalize your account with a photo of your choosing. Additionally, you’ll discover how to manage the default user icon and restrict users from making alterations to it.

Step 1: Change Your Account Image in Windows

Windows users can easily update their default account images through the Settings app, the User Account Pictures folder, or the online Microsoft account management platform.

Step 1: Access Your Account Settings

Navigate to Settings -> Accounts -> Account settings -> Your info to locate your profile images.

Step 2: Adjust Your Photo

In the Adjust your photo section, choose a new image by clicking on Open Camera for a live photo, or Browse files to upload an existing file. The updated image will appear immediately on your account page.

Changing Images from the User Accounts Picture Folder

Windows stores default account images in PNG format within a designated system folder. By replacing these images with your selected icons, you can customize the default user pictures.

Step 3: Replace Default User Account Images

Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder: %ProgramData%\Microsoft\User Account Pictures. Here, you’ll find all standard user account icons available for replacement. Download or select an image, ensuring its dimensions are at least 512px x 512px.

Pro Tip: To effectively change the images, create five duplicates in the following sizes:

  • 448 x 448 – user.png
  • 192 x 192 – user-192.png
  • 48 x 48 – user-48.png
  • 40 x 40 – user-40.png
  • 32 x 32 – user-32.png

Step 4: Copy and Replace Images

Copy the resized images into the User Account Pictures folder, ensuring to select Replace the file in the destination. It’s advisable to back up the original images before making replacements.

Changing Pictures via the Microsoft Account Dashboard

Your Microsoft account picture syncs automatically to your Windows device if you are signed in with a Microsoft account. To change your image online, visit your Microsoft account online.

Step 5: Update Your Microsoft Profile Image

Log into your Microsoft account, go to Your info, and select Change Photo. A pop-up will allow you to browse for a new image. After uploads, click Save and subsequently Update your Profile to finalize your changes.

Summary

This guide explored multiple methods to customize, delete, and restore user account pictures in Windows. You can adjust settings through the Windows interface, utilize File Explorer for image management, or synchronize through your Microsoft account.

Conclusion

Customizing your user account picture in Windows is not only a simple way to enhance your digital identity but also adds a personal touch to your computing experience. Take advantage of these methods to make your account unique.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How can I change my user account picture in Windows?

You can change your user account picture either through the Settings app under ‘Your Info’ or by replacing images in the User Account Pictures folder.

Can I remove my user account picture completely?

Yes, you can remove your account picture by accessing the Microsoft account dashboard and clicking ‘Remove Photo’.

How do I restore the default account picture?

To restore the default account picture, navigate to the Settings app and upload the original default image from the User Account Pictures folder.