How to change a primary domain

Problem

How can you change the primary domain name and rename a user account without affecting the existing data?

Environment

  • Gmail
  • Admin console

Solution

Note: The new domain has to be added in the account as Secondary domain prior to these steps.
  1. Sign in to the Admin console.
  2. Click on Domains > Manage domains
  3. Click on Change primary domain.
  4. Follow the steps on screen to complete the change. 
  5. Rename the users to the new domain from the left menu, click on Directory > Users
  6. Point to one of the user names, and from the far right, click on Update user
  7. Change the domain name from the drop-down menu.
  8. Save the changes.
  9. Repeat the same steps with all users.

Cause

Helpful resources:

Review our Help Center article Change your primary domain for Google Workspace to get more information.