How to Fix Duplicate User Accounts on Windows 10 Login Screen

Some users on Windows 10 encounter an issue where the login screen shows duplicate user accounts, causing confusion and inconvenience. In this article, we’ll explore possible reasons for these duplicate accounts and offer methods to resolve the issue.

Why Duplicate Users Appear

Here are some common causes for duplicate user accounts appearing on the Windows 10 login screen:

  • Windows Update errors. Certain updates may introduce bugs that affect user profile settings.
  • Microsoft account settings. Switching to a Microsoft account and syncing with the cloud can occasionally cause duplicate accounts to appear.
  • Incorrect registry settings. Modifications in the system registry can sometimes lead to login screen issues, such as duplicate accounts.

Ways to Fix Duplicate User Accounts

Here are some simple methods to resolve this issue:

1. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix display issues, especially if the problem occurred after a recent update.

2. Check Microsoft Account Settings

If you’re using a Microsoft account to sign in, go to Settings > Accounts and review your sync settings. Ensure your account settings are properly synced.

3. Edit Registry Settings

Modifying the registry may help fix duplicate users. Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList.
  3. Here, you’ll find user profile lists shown as keys. Check for any duplicates.
  4. Delete any duplicate keys or adjust their settings if they appear incorrect.

Be cautious when editing the registry, as incorrect changes can impact system performance.

4. Create a New User Account and Transfer Data

If the problem persists, try creating a new user account. Transfer data from the duplicated account and then remove the old one. This method can help resolve the issue without direct interference with system files.