How to Delete Old Computer Name From Network in Windows 10

This article explains how to remove an old computer no longer connected or available from the network details within Windows 10.

Why Would an Old Computer Show Up in the Windows 10 Network Details?

Generally, Windows 10 will automatically remove old computers from the network list, but you can do it yourself if this doesn’t happen.

If you change the name of your computer, for example, you may end up with two entries. If you upgrade your computer but no longer have the old one, you may still see it in the network details. The name still shows up in either case, which means the information has not refreshed automatically.

How Do I Remove an Old Computer Showing Under Network In Windows 10?

Here's how to remove an old computer by forcing a refresh:

1. In the Windows search bar type cmd.
   

2. Under Best Match, you will see an application named Command Prompt. RIght-click on the icon and select Run as Administrator.
   

3. The Windows UAC (User Access Controls) will request permission to open the Command Prompt as an administrator. Click Yes.
   

4. The Command Prompt window will open. Type the following (including the space), then press Enter: ipconfig /flushdns.
   

5. In the Command Prompt window type the following (including the space), then press Enter: ipconfig /release.
   

6. In the Command Prompt window type the following (including the space), then press Enter: ipconfig /renew.
   

7. After completing each of these tasks, reboot your computer.
   

When the computer reboots, and you log in, the old computer should no longer appear in the network details.

How Do I Remove the Computer Name From Windows 10?

You cannot remove the computer name within Windows 10. However, it is possible to change the name in Windows 10, 8, and 7. If you have two computers with similar names or want to rename an old title, you can do just that.

If you want to change the owner name or change account names (user profiles), you can do that, as well.

How Do I Remove a Shared Computer From My Network?

If you're connected to a home or local Wi-Fi network—a wireless connection—you can safely remove shared computers.

Here's how to safely remove an old computer from your network:

1. Open the Windows Start Menu by pressing the Windows key (logo) or by clicking on the Start Menu button in the bottom right.
   

2. Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
   

3. A window will appear. Click Manage Wireless Networks on the left-hand side.
   

   If you are not connected to a Wi-Fi network, or you’re using a wired connection (LAN) you will not see the option to Manage Wireless Networks.

4. Find the name of the network in the list you wish to leave, right-click on it and then select Remove Network.
   

How Do I Remove an Unknown Computer From My Network?

Unfortunately, you cannot use Windows to block unknown computers from your network. You must do it from your network devices, such as your router.

There are some measures you can take to remove unknown computers and devices:

• Change the Wi-Fi password used to connect to your router, and use a stronger protocol like WPA2-AES. Keep in mind; you will have to reconnect all of your devices after doing so.
• Change the router's administrative password. Be sure to use strong password techniques when choosing a new one.
• Disable WPS security if it's enabled.