Managing multiple cPanel accounts as a hosting provider or server admin requires precise control over account settings, including usernames. One of the common yet slightly tricky tasks is to change cPanel username through WHM (Web Host Manager). Whether you need to rebrand an account, fix a typo, or align usernames with a domain, WHM provides the flexibility to make this change—with caution.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to change cPanel username in WHM safely, ensuring that your account continues to work properly. Hostrago is committed to simplifying server management, and this blog is part of our cPanel/WHM tutorial series. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process!
Step-by-Step: How to Change cPanel Username in WHM
Here’s how you can change the username of a cPanel account using WHM:
Step 1: Log in to WHM
- Open your browser and go to your WHM URL, usually:
https://your-server-ip:2087
- Enter your root username and password to access the WHM dashboard.
Step 2: Navigate to “Modify an Account”
- In the WHM search bar, type
Modify an Account
- Click on the “Modify an Account” option under the Account Functions section.

Step 3: Select the cPanel Account
- You’ll see a list of all cPanel accounts hosted on the server.
- Locate the account you want to change and click “Modify” next to it.
Step 4: Change the Username
- In the modification screen, scroll down to the Username field.
- Update the username to your preferred one.

What Happens After Changing the Username?
Once the username is changed:
- Your new home directory will reflect the new username.
- MySQL database prefixes and usernames will automatically update.
- Cron jobs and email filters might need manual adjustment.
- Custom configurations like CMS settings or hardcoded scripts may need revision.
Conclusion
Changing a cPanel username in WHM is a powerful feature but must be used wisely. From FTP paths to MySQL databases, several components rely on the original username. With proper preparation, including full backups and configuration updates, you can successfully change cPanel username without breaking functionality.
For more WHM and cPanel tutorials, visit the Hostrago Knowledge Base, where you’ll find beginner to advanced hosting guides. And if you ever need support, our 24/7 hosting experts are just a click away!