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Moving all my data to a new Windows 11 Account on the same device

Jose Guerra 40 Reputation points
2025-07-10T17:17:29.54+00:00

I am running Windows 11 Pro 24H2. My original account profile got corrupted AFTER I moved from Windows 10 to Windows 11 (not happy about that but it is what it is). I was informed in a Microsoft Community forum that the best solution was to create a new account which I have now done and installed all the apps I need.

How do I now move all my data (e.g., Documents, Libraries, Desktop, etc.) from the corrupted account to the new one?

Thanks.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Accounts, profiles, and login
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David-M 113.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-07-10T18:08:52.77+00:00

Hi. I'm David, and I'm happy to help you.

The procedure is manual, but it's fairly straightforward. Here's how you can do it:

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to your old user account folder:
    • C:\Users\[YourOldUsername]
  2. Copy your essential folders, such as Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, Desktop, and any custom folders you created.
  3. Go to your new account folder:
    • C:\Users\[NewUsername]
  4. Paste the folders you copied.

(You can use Ctrl + C to copy and Ctrl + V to paste.)

Let me know how it went. If you miss anything, let me know, and I'll help you find it.

Feel free to ask back any questions.

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  1. Mason Fraser 165 Reputation points
    2025-07-10T19:05:06.6433333+00:00

    You can move your files manually by going to C:\Users[OldUsername], copying the folders you need (Documents, Desktop, etc.), and pasting them into the same locations in your new account (C:\Users[NewUsername]). Make sure you’re signed in as an admin or have permission to access both folders. For app settings, you might need to reconfigure them manually since those don’t transfer as easily.
    Have a nice day, Jose.

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  2. David-M 113.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-07-10T18:13:01.03+00:00

    One detail I forgot to mention: you can select multiple folders at once by holding down the Ctrl key and clicking each folder individually.

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  3. Jose Guerra 40 Reputation points
    2025-07-10T20:25:41.86+00:00

    Than you everyone! I figured that's what it was going to take but I wanted to make sure since I have never done this before. I've been carrying the same account name across multiple laptops for about 20 years. Thanks again!

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