Did you know using “admin” as your WordPress username is like leaving your front door wide open? Hackers love exploiting this common oversight, making your website an easy target. When I first set up my WordPress site, I didn’t think twice about using the default username. Big mistake! After a security scare, I decided to change it—and wow, it was easier than I thought.
In this guide, I’ll show you multiple methods to change your WordPress admin username. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s an option here for everyone. Let’s lock that door and keep your site safe!
Why Change Your WordPress Admin Username?
If you’re still using “admin” as your WordPress username, it’s time to make a change. Here’s the deal: sticking with the default username might seem harmless, but it’s actually a huge risk. Hackers are always on the lookout for easy targets, and a generic username like “admin” is practically a gift to them. Let’s break down why changing your admin username is one of the smartest moves you can make for your site’s security.
Protect Against Brute Force Attacks
Imagine someone trying to guess your WordPress login by attempting every possible username and password combination. That’s what hackers do during brute force attacks. They start with the most common usernames, and you guessed it—”admin” tops the list. It’s like having your front door key under the doormat. Why make it easy for them?
When I first launched my blog, I didn’t think twice about using “admin.” A few months later, I started noticing weird login attempts in my security logs. It turned out bots were relentlessly targeting my site. Thankfully, I caught it early, changed my username, and beefed up security. The difference was night and day—no more spammy login attempts!
Strengthen Overall Site Security
Your WordPress site is only as strong as its weakest link. By changing your admin username, you’re effectively removing a major vulnerability. Hackers rely on predictable patterns. If you throw them off by using a unique, non-obvious username, they’re more likely to move on to an easier target.
Think of your username as part of your site’s armor. Combined with a strong password and other security measures like two-factor authentication, you’re creating a fortress that’s hard to breach. It’s not about making your site invincible—it’s about making it so difficult to hack that they don’t bother trying.
Avoid the Pitfalls of Default Settings
Using default settings like “admin” sends a signal: “I didn’t bother to customize this.” It might sound harsh, but it’s true. Hackers know that users who stick with defaults are less likely to have robust security measures in place. Don’t let your username be a red flag.
Beyond security, changing the admin username also makes you look more professional. Whether it’s your personal blog or a business site, attention to detail matters. A customized username shows you’re serious about maintaining your site, and it sets the tone for a secure and trustworthy online presence.
In short, changing your WordPress admin username isn’t just about preventing attacks; it’s about taking control of your website’s security and professionalism. Don’t wait for a wake-up call like I did—make the change today!
Prepping for the Change: Backups Are Your Best Friend
When it comes to making changes to your WordPress site—especially something as critical as altering your admin username—backups are your safety net. I can’t stress enough how important it is to have a solid backup plan in place. Imagine losing your blog posts, media files, or even your entire site because of one tiny mistake. Trust me, it’s not worth the risk. Let’s talk about why backups are essential, the tools you can use, and a quick checklist to make sure you’re covered.
Why Backing Up Your Site is Crucial
Think of your website as your digital home. Now, imagine renovating that home without having insurance. What if something goes wrong? Backing up your site ensures that you can restore it to its original state if anything breaks during the process. For example, I once accidentally deleted a critical user profile while updating my WordPress settings. Thankfully, I had a recent backup, so I was able to recover everything without breaking a sweat.
Backups are also your first line of defense against malware, hacking, or server crashes. Even if your hosting provider offers some level of backup, it’s always better to have your own copy. This way, you’re in control and can restore your site whenever needed.
Tools for Seamless WordPress Backups
You’re probably wondering, “How do I even back up my site?” Luckily, WordPress offers plenty of user-friendly tools for this. Here are a few of my favorites:
- UpdraftPlus: This free plugin is incredibly intuitive and lets you schedule automatic backups. You can save your backups to cloud storage options like Google Drive or Dropbox.
- Jetpack: While it’s known for site management, Jetpack’s paid plans include a one-click backup feature that’s perfect for beginners.
- BackupBuddy: If you’re running multiple sites, this premium plugin offers excellent value with advanced features like real-time backups.
- Hosting Provider Tools: Many hosting providers, like SiteGround and Bluehost, include built-in backup services. These are worth exploring for added convenience.
Each tool has its strengths, so choose one that fits your needs and technical skill level.
A Quick Backup Checklist
Before diving into any changes, make sure your backup game is strong. Here’s a quick checklist to guide you:
- Database Backup: Your database contains all your posts, pages, and user data. Ensure it’s included in your backup.
- Media Files: Don’t forget your images, videos, and other uploads! These are just as important as your text content.
- Theme and Plugins: Backup your active theme, customizations, and plugin settings. Rebuilding these from scratch can be a hassle.
- Test the Backup: Always verify that your backup works. Restore it to a staging site if possible to confirm it’s complete.
- Schedule Regular Backups: Set up automatic backups to avoid forgetting. Weekly backups are a good rule of thumb for most sites.
With a reliable backup plan in place, you can confidently proceed with changing your admin username—or tackling any other major update—without worrying about losing your hard work. After all, peace of mind is priceless!
Method 1: Changing the WordPress Admin Username Using a Plugin
When it comes to changing your WordPress admin username, plugins are the easiest route, especially if you’re not comfortable diving into databases or command-line tools. I’ve been there—worried about breaking my site with one wrong click. That’s why I love the simplicity of using plugins for tasks like this.
Best Plugins for WordPress Admin Username Management
There are several plugins designed to make username changes a breeze. Here are the top picks:
- Username Changer: A lightweight plugin that allows you to change your username in just a few clicks. It’s beginner-friendly and doesn’t come with unnecessary bells and whistles.
- Edit Author Slug: While it focuses on customizing author slugs, it also lets you change usernames easily. A great option if you want a two-in-one tool for usernames and SEO improvements.
- WP Username Changer: This plugin is straightforward and does exactly what it promises—no more, no less. Perfect if you want something clean and to the point.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Using a Plugin
Here’s how you can change your WordPress username using a plugin. Don’t worry, even if you’ve never used a plugin before, this process is straightforward:
- Install and Activate a Plugin:
- Go to your WordPress dashboard, click on Plugins > Add New.
- Search for one of the recommended plugins, like Username Changer.
- Click Install Now, and once installed, hit Activate.
- Navigate to the Plugin Settings:
- After activation, find the plugin in your dashboard menu. It’s usually under Users or has its own section.
- Select the User to Change:
- Click on the admin username you want to change.
- Enter the new username in the designated field.
- Save Your Changes:
- Once you’ve entered the new username, click Save or Update Username.
- Log out and log back in using your new credentials to confirm the change.
Pros and Cons of This Method
Every method has its ups and downs, and plugins are no exception. Let’s weigh them out:
Pros:
- User-Friendly: Perfect for beginners or those who aren’t tech-savvy.
- No Risk of Errors: Unlike editing your database, plugins reduce the risk of accidentally breaking your site.
- Quick and Efficient: You can complete the process in just a few minutes.
Cons:
- Plugin Dependency: Using too many plugins can slow down your site or create conflicts.
- Limited Control: You might not have access to advanced features that manual methods offer.
- Security Concerns: Always vet plugins carefully to ensure they’re secure and from trusted developers.
Using a plugin to change your WordPress admin username is like taking the scenic route—it’s safe, straightforward, and doesn’t require any technical know-how. If you’re just starting out or want to avoid extra complexity, this is the method for you!
Method 2: Create a New User and Delete the Old One
Changing your WordPress admin username by creating a new admin account and deleting the old one is not only straightforward but also highly effective. It’s like upgrading to a more secure lock without leaving your door wide open during the process. Here’s how you can do it, step by step:
How to Create a New Admin Account
First, let’s create a new admin account with a unique username. Follow these steps:
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard using your current admin credentials.
- Navigate to Users > Add New in the left-hand menu.
- Fill out the form with the new account details:
- Username: Choose something unique and not easily guessable. Avoid common names like “admin,” “administrator,” or “user.”
- Email Address: Use an active email account for recovery purposes.
- Password: Generate a strong password using a password manager or the WordPress suggestion tool.
- Role: Select Administrator from the dropdown.
- Click Add New User to save your changes.
Once this is done, log out of your current account and log back in using the new admin credentials. You’re now ready to move your content over.
Reassigning Content to the New User
Before deleting the old admin account, you’ll need to reassign all its content to your new admin account. WordPress makes this super simple:
- Head back to the Users section in the dashboard.
- Locate your old admin account in the user list and click Delete underneath the username.
- A prompt will appear asking what to do with the content created by the old user.
- Select Attribute all content to: and choose your new admin account from the dropdown menu.
This step ensures all posts, pages, and media files created under the old admin account are transferred seamlessly to the new one. Trust me—you don’t want to skip this step and lose valuable content.
Deleting the Old Admin Account Securely
With everything reassigned, it’s time to say goodbye to the old admin account. When you click Confirm Deletion, WordPress permanently removes the old account from the database. This step is crucial because leaving inactive or unused accounts can create vulnerabilities in your site.
After deletion, double-check your site by reviewing posts and pages to ensure everything is now under the new admin account’s name. Don’t forget to test your new admin account’s permissions to ensure it works as expected.
By following these steps, you’ve successfully eliminated the risky default admin username and secured your site with a unique, hard-to-guess account. It’s a small effort for a big boost in security—your future self (and your website) will thank you!
Method 3: Changing the WordPress Username via phpMyAdmin
Changing your WordPress admin username via phpMyAdmin might sound like a techy thing to do, but trust me, it’s not rocket science. With a little guidance, even non-techies can navigate this process. However, it’s super important to tread carefully here because you’ll be working directly with your site’s database—one wrong move, and things could go sideways. Let’s break it down step by step.
Accessing Your Database Safely
The first step is accessing phpMyAdmin, which is a tool available through most hosting control panels like cPanel or Plesk. Think of it as the brain of your WordPress site, where all your data is stored. Before you log in, make sure you’ve backed up your database—this is your safety net in case something goes wrong.
Here’s how to access it:
- Log in to your hosting account and head to the control panel.
- Look for the phpMyAdmin option—most hosting providers place it in the “Databases” section.
- Click on phpMyAdmin, and you’ll see a list of databases. Find the one linked to your WordPress site. (Pro tip: If you’re unsure which one it is, check your
wp-config.phpfile for the database name.)
Once you’re in, take a deep breath. It might look overwhelming at first, but you’ll only need to focus on one specific table.
Editing the wp_users Table
Now that you’ve accessed the database, it’s time to make the change. In the left-hand menu, find the wp_users table and click on it. This is where all user information is stored, including usernames, email addresses, and passwords (don’t worry, passwords are encrypted).
Follow these steps:
- Locate the row with the admin username you want to change.
- Click “Edit” on that row—this will open a form with editable fields.
- Find the
user_loginfield, delete the old username, and type in your new one. - Double-check your entry (seriously, typos here can cause login issues).
- Save the changes by clicking the “Go” button.
And that’s it! Your new admin username is now set.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s where things can go wrong if you’re not careful:
- Editing the Wrong Database: Make sure you’re working in the correct database. Accidentally changing another site’s data could cause major issues.
- Typos in the Username Field: A single typo can lock you out of your account, so double-check your entry before saving.
- Skipping the Backup: Always create a backup before making database changes. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself if something goes wrong.
- Forgetting Linked Plugins: Some plugins may be linked to the original username, so test your site thoroughly after making changes.
If you do run into issues, don’t panic! Restore your backup or contact your hosting provider for support.
And there you have it—a quick and efficient way to change your admin username through phpMyAdmin. It’s a little nerve-wracking at first, but once you’ve done it, you’ll feel like a database pro!
Method 4: Use WP-CLI to Update the WordPress Admin Username
If you’re looking for a fast, efficient way to change your WordPress admin username, WP-CLI is the tool for you. Short for “WordPress Command Line Interface,” WP-CLI lets you manage your WordPress site directly from the terminal. It’s perfect for advanced users or anyone managing multiple sites, as it cuts out the need for clunky dashboards or extra plugins. Let’s dive into the steps.
Installing and Setting Up WP-CLI
Before you can use WP-CLI, you’ll need to install it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:
- Check Your Hosting Environment: Many modern hosting providers, like SiteGround or Cloudways, already have WP-CLI pre-installed. If it’s not installed, make sure your server meets the requirements: PHP 7.4 or higher and WordPress 5.0 or above.
- Download WP-CLI: Head to wp-cli.org and follow the installation instructions. For most setups, you’ll download the
wp-cli.pharfile and move it to a directory included in your system’s PATH, renaming it towp. - Verify Installation: Open your terminal and type
wp --info. If WP-CLI is installed correctly, you’ll see details like your PHP version and WordPress configuration. - Navigate to Your WordPress Directory: Using your terminal, go to the root directory of your WordPress installation. You’ll need access to this folder to run WP-CLI commands.
That’s it! You’re all set to start using WP-CLI.
Running the Command to Change the WordPress Admin Username
Once you’re up and running, changing the admin username is a breeze. Here’s how:
- Check Existing Users: Type
wp user listinto your terminal. This will display all registered users, including their user IDs and roles. Note the user ID of the admin account you want to change. - Update the Username: Run the following command:
wp user update <user-id> --user_login=<new-username>Replace<user-id>with the admin’s user ID and<new-username>with the new username you want. For example:wp user update 1 --user_login=newadmin - Confirm the Change: To double-check, run
wp user listagain. The admin username should now reflect your update.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even though WP-CLI is reliable, you might run into a hiccup or two. Here are some tips to solve common issues:
- Error: “Command not found”: This usually means WP-CLI isn’t installed correctly or isn’t in your system’s PATH. Double-check your installation steps and make sure
wpis globally accessible. - Database Access Denied: If you see this error, ensure your database credentials in the
wp-config.phpfile are correct. - Permission Errors: Some hosting providers restrict command-line access. You might need to contact your host to enable SSH or WP-CLI.
- Username Already Exists: If the new username is taken, you’ll need to choose a different one or delete the conflicting account first.
With WP-CLI, you can change your admin username in minutes. It’s efficient, direct, and avoids the need to fiddle with plugins or databases manually. Once you’ve mastered this tool, you’ll wonder how you ever managed your site without it!
Additional Security Tips After Changing Your WordPress Admin Username
So, you’ve changed your WordPress admin username—great job! But let’s not stop there. Think of it like locking the front door; you wouldn’t leave the windows wide open, right? There are still a few key things you can do to make your site as secure as possible. Let’s break it down into three simple but powerful steps: enabling two-factor authentication, using strong passwords, and keeping your WordPress site updated.
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication
This is a game-changer for website security. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of protection by requiring not just your password but also a second factor to log in—usually a code sent to your phone or generated by an app like Google Authenticator or Authy. Even if someone somehow gets their hands on your password, they still won’t be able to get into your site without that second factor.
When I first set up 2FA, I thought it would be a hassle, but honestly, it takes just a few seconds and is so worth it. Many security plugins, like Wordfence or iThemes Security, offer built-in 2FA options, making it super easy to set up. Pro tip: Keep a backup of your 2FA codes somewhere safe, just in case you lose your phone.
Using Strong Passwords
Here’s the deal: your password is your first line of defense, and “12345” isn’t going to cut it. A strong password is long, unique, and a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. And no, your pet’s name or birthday doesn’t qualify.
I used to think I had a great memory and didn’t need a password manager. Then I started forgetting my passwords all the time. Tools like LastPass or Dashlane are lifesavers. They can generate ultra-secure passwords and store them for you, so you never have to remember a thing. A good password might look like this: j#9Z!Qd@l4Y7. It’s random, hard to guess, and impossible for brute-force attacks to crack.
Regularly Updating Your WordPress Site
Outdated WordPress versions, themes, and plugins are like open invitations for hackers. Updates often include fixes for vulnerabilities that have been discovered, so ignoring them is like skipping a recall on a car—it’s just not worth the risk.
Whenever you see the little notification bubble in your WordPress dashboard, don’t ignore it. Click it, review the updates, and hit that update button. It only takes a minute, and you’ll have the latest security patches and features. Trust me, an updated site is a happy site.
By combining these practices with your newly updated username, you’re building a fortress around your WordPress site. Hackers will have to work a lot harder to get in—if they even try at all. So why wait? Start tightening up those digital locks today!
Conclusion: Take Control of Your WordPress Admin Username Security
Changing your WordPress admin username is a small but powerful move. It’s like adding a deadbolt to your front door. Don’t wait until something goes wrong—take action today. And hey, if you’ve got your own tips, share them in the comments. Let’s make the web a safer place together!
