How to Change a Computer's Host Name

A computer's host name is simply the name of the computer that is used for network connections. This name is configured through the properties of your computer's operating system, and once changed, changes the name of your computer on your network. It's helpful to be able to change a computer's host name if there is another computer on the network with a similar or identical name, so you can avoid confusion (and potential network errors).

Instructions

1. Log on to your computer with an administrative user account and click on the "Start" button.

2. Right-click on the "My Computer" icon and click on the "Properties" option.

3. Click on the "Computer Name" tab, click the "Change" button and type in the new host name you want your computer to have.

4. Click on the "OK" button, click "OK" again and click "OK" a final time to save your settings.

5. Restart your computer to apply the settings change. Once the computer starts up, the host name change is complete.

References

• Microsoft: Change Computer Name