Kasutajanime

Kasutajanime is the Estonian term for a user-chosen identifier used to represent a person on digital services. In English, it corresponds to username or handle. It is chosen during account creation and is typically what other users see in forums, games, social networks, and email services. In Estonian, the base noun is kasutajanimi; kasutajanime is the genitive form used in phrases such as kasutajanime muutmine (changing the username).

A kasutajanime serves as the primary identifier within a service. Platform rules vary, but most impose length, character, and uniqueness requirements. Commonly allowed characters include letters, digits, underscores; some services permit dots or hyphens. A kasutajanime is distinct from login credentials like passwords and emails, although they may be linked to the same account. It is often public or semi-public and tied to the user’s profile and content.

Names must comply with terms of service and laws; impersonation, harassment, or trademark violations are typically prohibited. Many users choose pseudonyms for privacy or branding. Real-name policies exist on some platforms; others encourage anonymity.

Users may change their kasutajanime on some platforms, though changes can affect recognition and links to past posts. Good practices include selecting a durable, easy-to-read name, avoiding personal data, and checking cross-platform readability. The concept exists worldwide as username, handle, or nickname, with platform-specific rules dictating usage.