ResNet: Changing your computer name

This document explains how to change a computer name. Renaming a computer requires a reboot.

NOTE: Truman faculty/staff members should not attempt to rename their Truman owned computers. These systems are part of Truman's Active Directory and renaming them could result in loss of service.

Changing a Windows computer name on a personally owned system:

1. Right click on the My Computer icon on the Desktop or in the Start Menu.
2. Select Properties.
3. Select the Computer Name tab of the System Properties window.
   • If you are using a Windows 7 machine click the Change Settings link about middway down the page.
4. Click the Change button.
5. Enter the new hostname in the Computer name field. (Computer names should be in compliance with the ITS Computer Naming Standard.)
6. Click the OK button to continue. The computer must be restarted for the name change to take effect.

Changing a Mac computer name on a personally owned system:

1. Click the Apple menu
2. Select System Preferences
3. Click the Sharing preference pane.
4. Click unlock in the bottom left if needed to make changes.
5. Enter the new host name in the Computer Name field. (Computer names should be in compliance with the ITS Computer Naming Standard.)
6. Close the preference pane and restart the system to take effect.