How to Change a Computer Name in Windows

This article covers how to change the computer name in Windows 10, 8, and 7 with tips on renaming it appropriately.

How to Change the Computer Name in Windows 10

Microsoft's Windows 10 operating system streamlines the process for many important functions, including name changes. Only administrators can change the name of a Windows PC, so make sure you're logged in as such before changing your computer's name. If you can't, you'll need to talk to your network administrator.

1. Open the Windows 10 Settings menu by pressing the Windows key+I. Alternatively, search for Settings in the Windows 10 search bar and select the corresponding entry.

2. Select System in the Windows Settings screen.

3. Select About from the left menu panel. You may have to scroll down to find it.

4. Select Rename this PC and input a new name for your Windows 10 computer. Select Next.

5. Restart the PC for the name change to take effect.

How to Change the Computer Name in Windows 8

Changing your PC's name in Windows 8 is slightly different from changing it in Windows 10.

1. From the Start screen, begin typing Control Panel.

2. Select Control Panel.

3. Select System and Security > System.

4. Under the Computer name, domain and workgroup settings heading, select Change settings.

5. If prompted, agree to the administrative approval and then select Change.

6. Input your computer's new name and select OK.

7. Restart your system for the change to take effect. You can do so straight away or wait until your next system shut down.

How to Change Your Computer's Name in Windows 7

Changing your PC's name in Windows 7 is much the same as in Windows 8, but the method of accessing the Control Panel is a little easier.

1. Type Control Panel into the Windows search bar and select the corresponding result.

2. Select System and Security > System.

3. Under the Computer name, domain and workgroup settings heading, select Change settings.

4. If prompted, agree to the administrative approval, then select Change.

5. Input your computer's new name and select OK.

6. Restart your PC when prompted or do so later for the name change to take effect.

Rename Your Windows 10 Computer the Right Way

There are rules for naming a computer. Use these tips to make sure your awesome name doesn't cause an easily avoided problem.

• Don't use spaces: Older systems can misinterpret them.
• Don't use lowercase letters: Some versions of Windows support lowercase names and some networks mandate uppercase, so it’s best to stick with that.
• Don't use special characters: Percent signs, ampersands, and slashes can cause headaches for some networks.
• Keep it short: Keep a name to under 15 characters so as not to complicate things.
• Keep it unique: Make sure the name you choose is unique. Duplicates on a network are confusing.

If you’re naming your home PC or are on a small network, a heavily personalized name is OK. If you’re renaming several systems on an expansive network, pick a naming convention that makes sense for the entire network and apply it to each connected system.