ByChanging a computer’s name in the Windows operating system is an important task, especially when managing multiple devices in a network. A suitable and recognizable name makes system management easier. In this article, we will explain in detail the 7 best ways to rename a computer in Windows, using which you can give your system a new identity.
1. Rename Computer via Settings App
This is the easiest way in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Steps:
1. Click on the Start button and open Settings.
2. Go to System options.
3. Scroll down and select the About section.
4. Here you will find the button “Rename this PC”, click on it.
5. A new dialog box will open, where you can enter the new name.
6. Type the new name and click Next.
7. When asked to restart, select Restart Now.
This method is most suitable for new users.
2. Change computer name from Control Panel
Control Panel is still a powerful tool in Windows.
Steps:
1. Open Control Panel.
2. Go to System and Security > System.
3. Click “Change settings” in the Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings section.
4. The System Properties window will open, with a “Computer Name” tab.
5. Click the Change button.
6. Enter the new name and click OK.
7. Restart the system.
This method is useful for users who prefer the traditional interface.
3. Change computer name using Command Prompt (CMD)
Command Line Interface (CLI) is a powerful tool for technical users.
Steps:
1. Open CMD (Command Prompt) in Administrator mode.
2. Type the following command:
“`
wmic computersystem where name=”%computername%” call rename name=”NewPCName”
“`
Enter your new name in place of “NewPCName” here.
3. Restart the computer after the command runs.
4. How to change the computer name with PowerShell
PowerShell is another advanced tool used to automate many tasks in Windows.
Steps:
1. Open PowerShell with Run as Administrator.
2. Use the following command:
“`
Rename-Computer -NewName “NewPCName”
“`
3. Then restart the computer:
“`
Restart-Computer
“`
This method is particularly suitable for scripting and automation.
5. Rename via shortcut from System Properties
This method is for those who want to access System Properties quickly.
Steps:
1. Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.
2. Type `sysdm.cpl` and press Enter.
3. The System Properties window will open.
4. Go to the “Computer Name” tab and click on the Change button.
5. Type the new name and click OK.
6. Restart the computer.
6. Rename the computer via Windows Registry Editor
This is an advanced method and should be done carefully.
Steps:
1. Press Windows + R, then type `regedit` and press Enter.
2. Go to this location:
“`
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\ComputerName\ComputerName
“`
3. Double click on ComputerName on the right side.
4. Type the new name and save it.
5. Enter the same name in “ActiveComputerName” at the same location.
6. Restart the system.
Note: Be careful while making changes in the Registry, as incorrect changes can damage the system.
7. Rename from Local Group Policy Editor (For Advanced Users)
This option works only in Windows Pro, Enterprise or Education versions.
Steps:
1. Press Windows + R, then type `gpedit.msc` and press Enter.
2. Go to this path:
“`
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Computer Name
“`
3. Double click on “Computer Name” if the policy is available.
4. Enter the new name and click Apply.
5. Restart the system.
This method is mostly used by network administrators.
What to do after changing the name?
Use System Information or the `hostname` command to check if the new name is updated correctly.
Reconfigure the network settings if you are facing any problems.
If your system is connected to a domain, contact the domain administrator.
Conclusion
Changing the computer name in Windows is a very simple process, which you can do in many ways, whether you are a normal user or an advanced system administrator. All 7 methods mentioned above are effective and useful. You can adopt any of the methods as per your requirement and convenience.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is it safe to change your computer’s name?
Answer: Yes, it is completely safe to change your computer’s name in Windows. It only affects the system’s identity, it does not affect your files, settings, or installed programs.
Q2: Do you need to be an administrator to change your computer’s name?
Answer: Yes, you need to have Administrator rights to change your computer’s name. You cannot change the name without administrator permission.
Q3: How many times can I change my computer’s name?
Answer: You can change your computer’s name as many times as you want, but changing the name too often can cause networking and identity problems.
Question 4: Does renaming a computer affect system performance?
Answer: No, it does not affect system performance. It only affects network and user identities.
Question 5: Is it necessary to restart the system after renaming the computer?
Answer: Yes, in most cases, a system restart is necessary for the change to take effect.
Question 6: How can I rename my computer?
Answer: You can rename it using any of the methods mentioned above to restore its old name.
Question 7: How does renaming a computer affect the network?
Answer: The identity of the computer on the network changes. If your computer is connected to a local network or domain, other devices may take time or may need to be manually updated to recognize its new name.
Question 8: Can I use special characters or spaces in the computer name?
Answer: No, Windows does not allow special characters (such as @, #, \$, %, etc.) and spaces in the computer name. Only alphanumeric characters and hyphens (-) can be used.
Question 9: What is the difference between a computer name and a hostname?
Answer: Usually, both are the same, but technically, Computer Name is the name displayed in the Windows GUI, while Hostname is the name used in network commands.
Question 10: Will changing the computer name affect your Microsoft Account?
Answer: No, this will not affect your Microsoft Account, OneDrive, or Windows Activation. It only affects the local machine identity.
