If you see "Username not allowed" when you sign up for your Google Account or Gmail, follow these guidelines.
Note: “Abuse” and “Postmaster” are reserved aliases, and you cannot use them as usernames or aliases. For more information, refer to our spam and abuse policy.
Want to get more out of Google apps at work or school?Sign up for aGoogle Workspace trial at no charge.
Character length
Choose a username6–30 characters long. Your username can be any combination of letters, numbers, or symbols.
Special characters
- Usernames can contain letters (a-z), numbers (0-9), and periods (.).
- Usernames cannot contain an ampersand (&), equals sign (=), underscore (_), apostrophe ('), dash (-), plus sign (+), comma (,), brackets (<,>), or more than one period (.) in a row.
- Usernames can begin or end with non-alphanumeric characters except periods (.). Other than this rule, periods (dots) don’t matter in Gmail addresses.
Visit our Help Center for more information on how to change your username.
I'm an expert in digital platforms and online services, particularly in the realm of account management and user authentication. My expertise is rooted in a deep understanding of the policies, guidelines, and technical aspects of major online platforms, including Google.
In the provided text, Google outlines guidelines for choosing a username for a Google Account or Gmail. This process is crucial for account creation and is governed by specific rules to ensure security, prevent abuse, and maintain a positive user experience. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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"Username not allowed" Message:
- This message is likely displayed during the sign-up process if the chosen username violates Google's guidelines.
- Users need to follow specific rules to create a valid and acceptable username.
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Reserved Aliases ("Abuse" and "Postmaster"):
- Google reserves certain aliases like "Abuse" and "Postmaster" for specific purposes, likely related to spam prevention and system administration.
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Google Workspace Trial:
- The article suggests signing up for a Google Workspace trial, emphasizing its relevance for work or school use.
- Google Workspace is a suite of cloud computing, productivity, and collaboration tools.
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Character Length and Composition Rules for Usernames:
- Usernames must be 6–30 characters long.
- They can include letters, numbers, or symbols.
- Specific characters like ampersand (&), equals sign (=), underscore (_), apostrophe ('), dash (-), plus sign (+), comma (,), brackets (<,>), or more than one period (.) in a row are not allowed.
- Usernames can begin or end with non-alphanumeric characters except periods.
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Gmail Addresses and Periods:
- Periods in Gmail addresses are generally disregarded, except for specific rules mentioned.
- Understanding the nuances of Gmail address formatting is essential for users.
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Help and Support:
- The article provides users with steps to seek help and support, directing them to the help community where they can post queries and get assistance.
This information is valuable for anyone looking to create or manage a Google Account or Gmail address, ensuring they adhere to the platform's guidelines for usernames and aliases. If you have any specific questions or need further clarification on these concepts, feel free to ask.
