Unable to rename Administrator account

[RichardParry]

Hi All,

Just setup a new Win2k3 Web Edition server to deploy on the net, however for some reason I am unable to rename either the Administrator or Guest account - whenever I go into Computer Management, click on Rename, I can enter the new name, but the instant I hit return it just goes back to the original. This is a default install of 2k3 Web Edition, with SP1a, but I have disabled many system services that I deem not required - so it's possible one of the services I have disabled is required for renaming users?

I have never had this problem before and deployed dozens of systems in the same config, although this box is locked down slightly more, but I haven't got on to the Local Policy yet, so nothing in there should be preventing me from changing the username.

I have checked the event logs, nothing in there to suggest why it is I am unable to rename either user. I am logged in with the Administrator user by the way, but that's how I have always renamed this account.

Any ideas what could be causing this?

Thanx, Richard

 

[RichardParry]

Just to also confirm, I am able to add other users via the MMC, but as soon as it's added, I am unable to rename the user - very odd.

I have gone over all of the services currently disabled and from what I can see nothing in there should be stopping the ability to rename users.

 

[itsp1965]

Can you login as another administrative account and then rename administrator?

 

[jshurst]

I would leave that account name alone and disable it. Create a new account and give it Administrator rights first. This is how I always do it.

J

 

[RichardParry]

Hmm, I did manage to change it via the command line, but although that worked, just installed some other software and it keeps rebooting itself with no BSOD - I am guessing this install of Windows isn't too happy - reinstall time! I know the hardware is fine as I did a test install only a few days ago, but reprepped today. Nevermind.