Some platforms have a username and a screen name. In that case, the username is for logging in, and the screen name will display to other members of the platform. Depending on the platform, you might not be able to change your username later. Take your time! For platform-specific methods for changing your username, see our guides on Spotify, Minecraft, and YouTube.

Note that some platforms will have username requirements. These will be listed on the account creation page when making your username.

Don’t include any part of your password in your username. Read our general guide to internet safety for more info.

Your username could also relate to the website you’re signing up for. If it’s a bird watching forum, you could make your username your favorite bird.

Including some adjectives can increase the uniqueness of your username. You could put a color or descriptor before your username. For example, “the_quick_orange_cat”.

Periods are often used to separate words in usernames as well. Don’t use your birth year at the end of your username, especially if you are a minor, as it makes it very easy to identify how old you are.

Another advantage of name generators is that they’re often themed! For example, you can search for a fantasy or sci-fi name generator to make a unique fictional username.