How are usernames and user IDs used on Facebook profiles?
Usernames and user IDs are part of your public profile, which helps your friends find you on Facebook.
Usernames
Your username is often a variation of your name like jane.doe33 or janedoe3. You can create your own username, or choose a username that Facebook suggests. Here are some of the things usernames do:
- Usernames create a custom link (ex: www.facebook.com/janedoe3) to your profile that you can share with your friends or post on external websites.
- Usernames can also be used to access information about you through Facebook. For example, if your username is janedoe3, someone can go to “facebook.com/janedoe3”to see your profile and any public information. Learn how to adjust what people can see in your profile.
Learn how to create a username for your profile.
User IDs
If you don't create a username, you'll still have a User ID. A User ID is a string of numbers that doesn't personally identify you but does connect to your Facebook account. Here are some of the things User IDs do:
- Like usernames, if someone has your user ID, they can use it to see your profile and any public information. Learn how to adjust what people can see in your profile.
- Your user ID also helps applications personalize your experience by connecting with your Facebook account. When you allow apps to connect with your Facebook account, they can use your user ID to see things like your public profile and your friend list.
- If you have a problem with an app or a game, sharing your user ID with the developer may help them better address your question or concern.
Learn how to find your user ID.