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

By / October 18, 2025

If you’ve just set up a new PC or upgraded to Windows 11, you might notice that your computer name looks like a random mix of numbers and letters. Not only is that confusing, but it also makes it harder to identify your device on a network or when troubleshooting. The good news? Learning how to change computer name Windows 11 is simple, and you can do it in just a few minutes.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from why you should rename your PC to different methods to do it step by step. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned Windows user, you’ll find a method that works best for you.

📝 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)

  • You can change your computer name in Windows 11 using Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or PowerShell.

  • The process takes less than 5 minutes, but you’ll need to restart your computer for the new name to apply.

  • A good computer name makes your device easier to identify on home or office networks.

  • Avoid using special characters or spaces — stick to letters, numbers, and hyphens.

  • Windows 11 Pro users can also change computer names via System Properties or Group Policy.

Why Change Your Computer Name in Windows 11?

Ever noticed your PC name looks like DESKTOP-4JF9LK3? That’s the default naming system Windows assigns. But this can cause issues:

  • Hard to Identify – If you have multiple devices at home or in the office, you won’t know which is which.

  • Network Management – When connecting to shared drives or printers, a unique name makes it easier.

  • Professionalism – Businesses often use naming conventions (like OFFICE-PC-01).

  • Personalization – Just like customizing your wallpaper or theme, renaming gives your PC a personal touch.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Renaming Your Computer

Before you dive in, keep these rules in mind:

  • Length: The name can be up to 15 characters.

  • Characters: Only letters (A-Z), numbers (0-9), and hyphens (-) are allowed.

  • Case-insensitive: Windows doesn’t differentiate between uppercase and lowercase.

  • Restart required: After changing, you must restart your PC for the new name to apply.

👉 Example of good names: Office-PC, GamingRig, John-Laptop.
👉 Bad names: My PC!!!, Laptop@123, John’s_PC.

Methods to Change Computer Name in Windows 11

There are multiple ways to rename your Windows 11 PC. Let’s break them down, step by step.

1. How to Change Computer Name via Settings (Easiest Method)

This is the most beginner-friendly method.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to System > About.

  3. Under Device specifications, click Rename this PC.

  4. A pop-up will appear. Enter your new computer name.

  5. Click Next.

  6. Restart your PC to apply changes.

✅ Done! Your computer now has a new name.

2. How to Change Computer Name via System Properties

This is the classic method that’s been around since older Windows versions.

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

  2. In the System Properties window, go to the Computer Name tab.

  3. Click Change….

  4. Enter your new computer name.

  5. Click OK, then Apply.

  6. Restart your computer.

👉 This method is useful if you’re managing multiple PCs in a workgroup.

3. How to Change Computer Name Using Command Prompt

If you prefer commands, this method is for you.

  1. Press Windows + S, type Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

  2. Type the following command:

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

    (Replace “NewName” with your desired name.)

  3. Press Enter.

  4. Restart your PC to apply changes.

4. How to Change Computer Name Using PowerShell

PowerShell is more powerful than Command Prompt.

  1. Press Windows + X, then select Windows Terminal (Admin).

  2. Enter the following command:

    Rename-Computer -NewName "NewName" -Restart

  3. Your computer will automatically restart with the new name.

5. How to Change Computer Name in Control Panel

The Control Panel still exists in Windows 11, and you can use it.

  1. Open the Control Panel.

  2. Go to System and Security > System.

  3. Click Advanced system settings (left sidebar).

  4. In the System Properties window, go to the Computer Name tab.

  5. Click Change…, enter the new name, and restart.

6. How to Change Computer Name Using Registry Editor (Advanced)

⚠️ Warning: This method is only for advanced users. Mistakes in the registry can cause issues.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

  2. Navigate to:

    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\ComputerName\ActiveComputerName

  3. Double-click ComputerName on the right.

  4. Enter your new name and click OK.

  5. Restart your PC.

7. How to Change Computer Name for Domain or Workgroup

If your PC is part of a company network:

  1. Open System Properties (sysdm.cpl).

  2. Under the Computer Name tab, click Change.

  3. Enter your new name.

  4. If needed, rejoin the domain or workgroup.

  5. Restart your PC.

Comparison of Methods

Here’s a quick comparison table to help you choose:

Method Difficulty Restart Needed Best For
Settings Easy Yes Beginners, casual users
System Properties Moderate Yes Workgroup/Network users
Command Prompt Moderate Yes IT admins, power users
PowerShell Moderate Yes (auto) Advanced automation users
Control Panel Moderate Yes Users familiar with old Windows
Registry Editor Hard Yes Advanced troubleshooting

Troubleshooting: Why Can’t I Change My Computer Name?

Sometimes you may face errors. Here’s why:

  • Insufficient Permissions – Make sure you’re logged in as an Administrator.

  • Invalid Characters – Remove spaces, symbols, or special characters.

  • Domain Restrictions – Company PCs may have naming rules.

  • Pending Updates – Restart your PC and try again.

Best Practices for Naming Your Computer

To avoid confusion, follow these tips:

  • Use a consistent naming scheme for multiple devices (e.g., Home-PC-1, Office-PC-2).

  • Avoid personal information (like your full name) for privacy reasons.

  • Keep it short and simple for easier typing.

Final Thoughts

Changing your computer name in Windows 11 is one of the easiest ways to personalize your PC and make it easier to manage. Whether you’re a casual user wanting a fun name or an IT professional managing multiple machines, Windows 11 gives you multiple methods to get the job done.

By following the steps in this guide, you can rename your computer in just a few clicks (or commands). So go ahead — give your PC a name that truly fits its personality.

FAQs: How to Change Computer Name Windows 11

1. Can I change my computer name without restarting?
No, Windows requires a restart to fully apply the new name.

2. What characters are allowed in a computer name?
Only letters, numbers, and hyphens. No spaces or special symbols.

3. Will changing my computer name affect my files?
No, it won’t affect your files, apps, or settings. Only the system name changes.

4. Can I rename my computer multiple times?
Yes, you can rename it as many times as you like. Just remember to restart each time.

5. Why is my PC name greyed out in Settings?
If the option is greyed out, you might not have admin rights, or your PC is managed by an organization.

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