How to Fix "Can’t Change Your Username" Folder in Windows 11

Learn why Windows 11 prevents changing your username folder after using Google Backup & Sync and how to fix the “file is open in another program” error.

Table of Contents

1. How to Fix It
1.1 Why This Happens
1.1.1 Method 1: Log in as Another Admin Account
1.1.2 Method 2: Disable Remaining Google Processes
1.1.3 Method 3: Use Safe Mode
1.1.4 Method 4: Update User Profile in Registry
1.2 Final Note

If you’ve tried to rename your user folder in Windows 11, you might encounter errors like:

“This action can’t be completed because the file is open in another program”
“Your Google Drive folder contains files you’re syncing with Google”

This is common if you previously had Google Backup & Sync installed. Even after uninstalling the program and deleting your Google Drive folder, Windows may still lock the folder due to residual sync metadata.

How to Fix It

Why This Happens

Residual Sync Files: Google Backup & Sync leaves hidden files or processes that prevent renaming.
Active File Handles: Windows thinks the folder is still in use because some background processes are holding a lock.
Registry/User Profile Links: Your original user folder is tied to the profile name in the Windows registry.

Method 1: Log in as Another Admin Account

Create a new local administrator account.
Log in to that account instead of the one you want to rename.
Navigate to C:\Users\ and rename the old username folder.

Method 2: Disable Remaining Google Processes

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
End any processes related to Google Drive, Backup & Sync, or Google Update.
Try renaming the folder again.

Method 3: Use Safe Mode

Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
Go to the Boot tab, check Safe boot, and restart.
Once in Safe Mode, rename the folder.

Method 4: Update User Profile in Registry

Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can break Windows. Backup before proceeding.

Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList
Find the profile linked to your old username.
Change the ProfileImagePath value to the new folder path.
Restart and log in to the renamed profile.

Final Note

Renaming the user folder tied to your Windows profile is tricky and can cause apps or shortcuts to break. Make sure you have a full backup before attempting this.

Trioner

Your Daily Dose of News, Insights, Gaming Guides, and Global Exploration.

How to Fix “Can’t Change Your Username” Folder in Windows 11