How to Convert a Workstation to a Regular Computer

To allow computers in an office or home to share files and network resources, the systems are often placed onto a Windows workgroup. This technically transforms the computers into workstations and allows them to communicate with one another. If you no longer want a certain computer to act as a workstation, you can remove it from the custom workgroup and convert it back into a regular computer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• PC running Windows XP or later

1. Log on to your PC workstation with an account that has administrative privileges.

2. Open the Start menu, right-click on "My Computer" and select "Properties." A pop-up window will open with various computer settings.

3. Click the "Computer Name" tab at the top of the Properties window.

4. Look under the "Workgroup" heading to find out what Windows workgroup your workstation is currently part of.

5. Click "Change" at the bottom of the Properties window.

6. Select the "Workgroup" radio button and replace the name in the text field with "WORKGROUP." Entering this in the text field will remove the computer from the current workgroup and set it back to the default option.

7. Click "OK" and confirm your decision to convert the system back to a regular computer.

8. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect and for the computer to be removed from the workgroup.

References

• Changing a Computer Name and Domain