How to Change Name in Laptop Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 21, 2025

Changing your laptop’s name in Windows 11 is more useful than you might think. By default, Windows assigns a generic device name (like DESKTOP-123ABC) that’s not easy to recognize—especially if you connect to Wi-Fi networks, share files, or use multiple devices. Giving your laptop a personalized name makes it easier to identify on networks and adds a touch of personalization.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to change your laptop’s name in Windows 11. Whether you prefer using Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or PowerShell, we’ve got you covered.

Quick Summary

  • You can change your laptop’s name in Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or PowerShell.

  • A restart is required after renaming for changes to take effect.

  • Device names must be unique and follow certain rules (no special characters like #, @, etc.).

1. Why Change Your Laptop Name in Windows 11?

  • Easier identification on Wi-Fi and local networks.

  • Better device management if you have multiple PCs.

  • Personalization—you can name your laptop something fun or descriptive.

  • Professional use—helps IT departments track devices.

2. Things to Know Before Renaming Your Laptop

  • The name can include letters, numbers, and hyphens.

  • No spaces or special characters allowed.

  • The maximum length is 15 characters.

  • A restart is required for the new name to apply.

3. Method 1: Change Laptop Name via Settings (Easiest Way)

This is the most user-friendly method.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to System > About.

  3. Under Device specifications, click Rename this PC.

  4. Enter your new laptop name (e.g., Work-Laptop or GamingPC).

  5. Click Next → then Restart now.

✅ After restart, your new name will be active.

4. Method 2: Change Laptop Name via Control Panel

If you prefer the classic method:

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.

  2. In the System Properties window, click the Computer Name tab.

  3. Click Change….

  4. Type your new laptop name and press OK.

  5. Restart your PC when prompted.

5. Method 3: Change Laptop Name via Command Prompt

For users comfortable with commands:

Steps:

  1. Press Start, search for Command Prompt, right-click → Run as administrator.

  2. Type the following command (replace NewName with your chosen name):

    WMIC computersystem where name="%computername%" call rename name="NewName"

  3. Press Enter.

  4. Restart your laptop.

6. Method 4: Change Laptop Name via PowerShell

Another quick command-line method.

Steps:

  1. Press Start, search for PowerShell, right-click → Run as administrator.

  2. Type the following command:

    Rename-Computer -NewName "NewName"

  3. Press Enter.

  4. Restart your laptop.

7. Method 5: Change Device Name in Microsoft Account (Optional)

If your laptop is linked to your Microsoft account, you can update its name online too.

Steps:

  1. Go to the Microsoft Devices page.

  2. Sign in with your Microsoft account.

  3. Select your laptop from the device list.

  4. Click Manage > Rename PC.

  5. Enter the new name and save changes.

8. Rules for Naming Your Laptop

  • Allowed: A–Z, 0–9, and hyphens (-).

  • Not allowed: Spaces, symbols (@, #, %, etc.).

  • Keep it short and descriptive (max 15 characters).

Examples:

  • ✅ Good: Office-PC, GamingRig, DellXPS13

  • ❌ Bad: John’s Laptop, PC@Home, Super_Long_Name_12345

9. Common Issues and Fixes

  • Error: “The computer name is invalid.” → Remove spaces/special characters.

  • New name not applied after restart. → Ensure you restarted after renaming.

  • Conflict on a network. → Use a unique name different from other devices.

10. Conclusion

Renaming your laptop in Windows 11 is simple and only takes a minute. You can use Settings (easiest), Control Panel, or command-line tools like Command Prompt and PowerShell.

Whether you’re personalizing your device or making it easier to find on a network, giving your laptop a clear name will save you time and reduce confusion.

11. FAQs

1. Can I rename my laptop without restarting?
No, Windows 11 requires a restart to apply the new name.

2. What characters can I use in my laptop name?
Letters, numbers, and hyphens. No spaces or special symbols.

3. Will changing my laptop’s name affect files or apps?
No, it only changes how your device is identified on the system/network.

4. Can I change my laptop name multiple times?
Yes, you can rename your PC as often as you like.

5. Does renaming my laptop affect my Microsoft account?
No, but if linked, the new name will appear on your Microsoft Devices page.

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