Changing your author name in WordPress is a quick and simple way to personalize your website, improve branding, or protect your privacy. Whether you want to display your full name, a nickname, or a business name, WordPress allows you to customize how your author name appears on posts and pages.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to change your author name in WordPress step by step.
Why Change Your Author Name in WordPress?
There are several reasons you may want to update your displayed author name:
- Use your real name instead of a username
- Improve personal or business branding
- Make your content look more professional
- Protect your login username for security reasons
- Display a pen name or nickname
Fortunately, WordPress includes a built-in feature that makes this easy.
How to Change Your Author Name in WordPress
Follow these steps to update the name shown publicly on your posts.
Step 1: Log In to Your WordPress Dashboard
Go to your WordPress admin area and sign in using your account credentials.
Once logged in, you’ll have access to your profile settings.
Step 2: Go to Your Profile Settings
From the left-hand menu, navigate to:
Users > Profile
If you are an administrator editing another user’s name, go to:
Users > All Users
Then select the user you want to edit.
Step 3: Update Your Name Information
Scroll down to the Name section.
Here, you can fill in fields such as:
- First Name
- Last Name
- Nickname
The nickname field is important because WordPress requires a nickname before you can change the display name.
Step 4: Choose a Display Name
Find the dropdown labeled:
Display name publicly as
Click the dropdown menu and select the name you want visitors to see on your posts.
Options may include:
- Username
- First name
- Last name
- Full name
- Nickname
Step 5: Save Your Changes
Scroll to the bottom of the page and click:
Update Profile
Your new author name will now appear on your posts and author pages.
What Happens After Changing Your Author Name?
After updating your display name:
- Your posts will show the new author name
- Author archives will reflect the updated display name
- Your login username remains unchanged
- Existing content automatically updates with the new name
This change does not affect your website content or user permissions.
Tips for Choosing a Good Author Name
Keep It Professional
Choose a name that matches your brand or writing style.
Avoid Using Your Username Publicly
Displaying your login username can create security risks.
Stay Consistent
Use the same author name across your website and social media platforms.
Consider SEO
Using your real name or brand name can help build authority online.
Common Issues and Solutions
Display Name Option Not Showing
Make sure you filled in the Nickname field first.
Author Name Not Updating on Posts
Clear your website cache and browser cache if the old name still appears.
Theme Still Shows Old Name
Some themes use custom author settings. Check your theme options if changes do not appear immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my WordPress username?
By default, WordPress does not allow direct username changes. You would need a plugin or create a new user account.
Will changing my author name affect SEO?
Usually no, but changing author branding frequently may confuse returning visitors and search engines.
Can multiple users have the same display name?
Yes, WordPress allows users to choose identical display names.
Does changing the display name affect login details?
No. Your login username and password remain the same.
Can I use a business name instead of a personal name?
Yes. You can use any nickname or display name you prefer.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to change how your author name appears in WordPress is a simple but important customization. It helps improve branding, protects your login username, and creates a more professional appearance for your website.
Whether you’re running a blog, business website, or online publication, choosing the right author name helps build trust and recognition with your audience.
Take a few minutes to update your display name today and make your WordPress profile better reflect your brand or identity.