Facebook allows users to choose their own unique username when setting up their account. This username, also known as a Facebook URL, is used to identify your profile and make it easy for other users to search for and find you on Facebook. There are a few key things to know about Facebook usernames and the options available when selecting your custom URL.
How to Get a Custom Username on Facebook
When you first create your Facebook account, you are assigned a default username by Facebook which is a long string of numbers. For example, a default Facebook username may look something like “facebook.com/profile.php?id=1234567890”. This default username is not very memorable or recognizable.
Fortunately, Facebook allows you to select a custom username that is more personalized. Here is how to get a custom Facebook username:
- Go to your Facebook profile
- Click on the “Username” box under your profile name
- Type in the custom username you want and click “Change Username”
- Facebook will check if the username is available. If it is taken, you will have to choose a different one.
Once you have a unique username that is not already in use, Facebook will assign it to your profile. This new custom username will now appear in your profile URL rather than the default ID number.
Facebook Username Requirements
While you can choose your own Facebook username, there are some requirements that Facebook enforces:
- Usernames must be at least 5 characters long
- Usernames cannot contain spaces, dots, or underscores
- Usernames can only contain alphanumeric characters (A-Z, 0-9) and periods
- Usernames cannot use words or phrases that are offensive or impersonate others
Following these rules allows Facebook to maintain unique usernames and prevent inappropriate or misleading accounts. If your desired username violates the requirements, Facebook will alert you to choose a different option.
Username Ideas for Facebook
When selecting your custom Facebook username, you want it to be personalized, memorable, and representative of you. Here are some username ideas to consider:
- Your first, middle, or last name
- Your full name or initials
- A fun nickname
- Your business or blog name
- A variation of your email address username
- Your interests or hobbies
- Your hometown or current city
- Your graduation year or birth year
- Favorite sports teams, bands, brands, etc.
Brainstorm username ideas based on your personal interests and profile. You may have to try several options before finding a username that both fits the requirements and is still available to select.
Tips for the Best Facebook Username
Here are some additional tips for choosing the best, most memorable username for your Facebook profile:
- Be concise – shorter usernames are easier to remember
- Use real words and names instead of random numbers and letters
- Make it broadly representative of you if using your actual name is too common
- Consider future changes too – pick something you may want for a while
- Check availability by typing options into the Facebook search bar
- Ask friends and family if your username choice sounds good
- Avoid using obscure inside jokes or references
- Steer clear of anything controversial, offensive or impersonating
With a thoughtful, personal username choice that fits the requirements, you can establish your unique presence on Facebook and make it easier for new connections to find you.
Can You Change Your Facebook Username?
Yes, you can change your Facebook username after initially selecting a custom URL. However, Facebook does limit how many times you can change your username to prevent abuse of the feature.
Here are the rules around changing your Facebook username:
- You can change your username every 60 days
- Previously used usernames become available again after 120 days
- Pages cannot change usernames once set
- Usernames can only be reused after being released
- Facebook reviews frequent username changes for suspicious activity
To change your Facebook username to something new, simply go to your profile, click on your current username, and enter the new desired username if available. The change should take effect immediately after saving the new username.
What Happens When You Change Your Facebook Username?
When you change your Facebook username, here is what happens:
- Your old profile URL will redirect to your new profile URL
- Friend connections are unaffected by a username change
- You may need to update your username on connected apps
- Pages will display your previous username in admin tools
- Old usernames cannot be claimed right away by others
In most cases, a Facebook username change should be seamless. The main impact is that your profile URL will be updated to reflect your new username. Friends will still be able to find you and any tags or mentions will transfer over.
Should Facebook Usernames Be Consistent Across Other Social Media?
Many social media experts recommend keeping your username consistent across platforms for branding purposes. For example, if your Twitter handle is @JohnSmith, your Instagram could be @JohnSmith, and your Facebook could be /JohnSmith.
Here are some benefits to consistent Facebook usernames:
- Friends can find you easily across multiple platforms
- It’s easier to remember one username
- Cross-platform promotion is seamless
- Your personal brand remains clear and focused
However, consistent usernames are not mandatory. If your name is taken, you have established accounts under different names, or you prefer variety, it’s perfectly fine to use different usernames. Just be extra clear in promoting your other accounts.
Pros and Cons of a Facebook Username
Choosing a custom Facebook username has both advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Lets you brand yourself
- Easier to remember than default URL
- Can promote it as your unique identifier
- Shows up in profile links and tags
Cons:
- Preferred names may be taken
- Harder to change later if desired
- Yet another username to keep track of
- Privacy may be reduced with a identifiable name
Overall, the customization and personalization benefits tend to outweigh the disadvantages for most Facebook users. Just be cautious with privacy if using a very identifiable username.
Facebook Username Considerations
Some final things to consider when selecting your Facebook username:
- Google your potential username to check for conflicts
- Ask close connections if it appropriately represents you
- Keep professional use in mind if needed in the future
- Assess privacy implications if including identifying info
- Consider longevity – pick something you won’t mind having for a long time
Your Facebook username can become your identity, so choose thoughtfully. But also don’t overthink it – pick something fun and memorable as the best representation of you!
Conclusion
Facebook provides users the ability to create unique, customizable usernames for their profiles. When selecting your username, keep Facebook’s requirements and username ideas in mind. A concise, memorable username can establish your personal brand and make connecting with others easier. While you can change it periodically, put some thought into selecting a username you want to represent you for the long-term. Overall, the right Facebook username can be a great form of self-expression!