Changing Usernames

A username is the name used to log into Confluence, eg. jsmith.

Currently, there is no straightforward method for changing a username and its associated content, to that of another user. The only practicable method currently available is to execute direct SQL queries on your database. There is a feature request to facilitate this process via a web interface and you can vote for it to improve its chances of being implemented. Be aware, however, that no matter what method you use to change usernames in Confluence, there is no support provided for this process. The instructions below provide suggested guidelines on how to change a username via SQL queries, although this may vary depending on your database.

Instructions For Changing Usernames

The following SQL commands are only tested for MYSQL and POSTGRES Databases. If you have any other database please contact your DBA to determine the equivalent queries.

Usernames can only be changed through direct update to the Confluence database.

1. If you have a database administrator, request that they approve the database-related steps described below
   
   
2. If you are using JIRA user management, Revert from JIRA To Internal User Management
   
   
3. Backup Confluence
   
   
4. Creating a usermigration table:
5. Usernames that will be changed must be placed in the usermigration table with their current and planned usernames:
6. If your DB administration tool does not support multiple SQL queries, these must be entered individually.
7. If using Confluence 2.1 or newer, run the following command:
8. Reassign personal spaces and content associated with the old username to the new username. The tilda (~) is required as it is prepended to the space key of all personal spaces.
9. Each username is associated with a full name. For example, username 'jsmith' may have a full name of 'John M Smith'. If this fullname needs to be changed, modify the fullname in the users or os_user table.
   
   

All old usernames in Confluence should now be replaced with the new usernames from the usermigration table.

RELATED TOPICS