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

Have you ever been asked, “What’s your computer name?” while trying to connect to a printer, join a network, or share files? If you’re using Windows 11, finding your PC’s name is easier than you might think.

Your computer name (also called “device name” or “PC name”) is a unique identifier assigned to your Windows 11 system. Think of it like a house number — without it, your PC would get lost in the crowd of devices on the same network.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through multiple easy methods to find your computer name in Windows 11, explain why it matters, and show you how to change it if needed.

Table of Contents

Summary (Key Takeaways)

Your computer name in Windows 11 is like your PC’s identity on a network.
You can find it through Settings, Command Prompt, PowerShell, Control Panel, File Explorer, and System Properties.
Changing your PC name is also possible in a few simple steps.
This guide covers all the methods to find your computer name, when and why you might need it, and troubleshooting tips.

Why Do You Need to Know Your Computer Name?

Before jumping into the methods, let’s understand why knowing your computer’s name is important.

Network Identification: Helps IT teams or colleagues identify your device on a shared network.
Remote Desktop Access: Required when you want to connect to your PC remotely.
Troubleshooting: Makes it easier to log errors or when contacting support.
Device Management: Essential for managing multiple computers in homes, schools, or businesses.

Different Ways to Find Your Computer Name in Windows 11

Windows 11 offers several built-in methods. You can use whichever feels easiest. Let’s go step by step.

Method 1: Find Computer Name via Settings

The Settings app is the most user-friendly method.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Select System from the left-hand menu.
Click on About at the bottom.
Under Device specifications, look for Device name.

✅ That’s your computer name!

Method 2: Find Computer Name Using System Properties

If you’ve been using Windows for years, this old-school method might feel familiar.

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Type sysdm.cpl and hit Enter.
The System Properties window opens.
Under the Computer Name tab, you’ll see your PC’s name.

Method 3: Find Computer Name with Command Prompt

For techies who love the command line, here’s the way:

Press Windows + S and type Command Prompt.
Open it and type:

hostname
Press Enter.
Your computer name will be displayed instantly.

Method 4: Find Computer Name via PowerShell

Another quick way is using PowerShell.

Open PowerShell by searching for it in Start Menu.
Type the following command:

Get-ComputerInfo | Select CsName
Hit Enter.
The result shows your computer name.

Method 5: Find Computer Name in Control Panel

Even though Control Panel is slowly being phased out, it’s still handy.

Open Control Panel (search in Start menu).
Go to System and Security > System.
Under Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings, find your device name.

Method 6: Find Computer Name in File Explorer

If you use File Explorer often, you can find it here too.

Open File Explorer with Windows + E.
In the left sidebar, right-click This PC.
Select Properties.
You’ll see the device name listed.

Method 7: Find Computer Name Using Task Manager

Task Manager isn’t just for performance monitoring.

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Switch to the Performance tab.
On the left, select CPU.
In the top-right corner, you’ll see your PC name.

Method 8: Find Computer Name Through Network Settings

If your PC is connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet:

Open Settings > Network & internet.
Click Properties under your network.
Scroll down to find your Device name listed.

How to Change Your Computer Name in Windows 11

Sometimes the default name (like DESKTOP-XYZ123) isn’t very user-friendly. Here’s how to change it.

Open Settings (Windows + I).
Go to System > About.
Under Device specifications, click Rename this PC.
Enter a new name (letters, numbers, hyphens allowed).
Restart your computer to apply changes.

💡 Tip: Use a meaningful name, like Office-PC or GamingRig, for easier identification.

Comparison Table: Quick Methods to Find Computer Name

Method	Ease of Use	Steps Required	Best For
Settings	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	3–4	Beginners
Command Prompt	⭐⭐⭐⭐	1–2	Tech users
PowerShell	⭐⭐⭐⭐	1–2	Admins & IT
System Properties	⭐⭐⭐	2–3	Old Windows users
Control Panel	⭐⭐⭐	3–4	Transition users
File Explorer	⭐⭐⭐	2–3	File-focused users
Task Manager	⭐⭐	3–4	Advanced users

Common Mistakes When Checking Computer Name

Looking in the wrong place (e.g., confusing user account name with computer name).
Forgetting to restart after renaming the PC.
Using invalid characters when changing names.

Troubleshooting: What If You Can’t Find Your Computer Name?

If none of the above methods work:

Ensure you have administrator access.
Run Command Prompt or PowerShell as Administrator.
Check if your PC is domain-joined (IT-managed devices sometimes restrict changes).

Pro Tips for Managing Multiple Computers

Use a consistent naming system (e.g., Office1, Office2, Laptop1).
Document computer names in a spreadsheet for larger networks.
Add tags like Work-PC or Home-Laptop to avoid confusion.

Conclusion

Finding your computer name in Windows 11 is straightforward, no matter which method you prefer. Whether through Settings, Command Prompt, PowerShell, or File Explorer, you can easily discover or change your PC name in just a few clicks.

Remember: your computer name is more than just a label — it’s your PC’s identity in a digital world. Keep it simple, meaningful, and consistent, especially if you manage multiple devices.

FAQs

1. What is a computer name in Windows 11?

It’s the unique identifier assigned to your PC for networking, sharing, and device management.

2. Can I change my computer name in Windows 11?

Yes. Go to Settings > System > About > Rename this PC, and enter a new name.

3. Is the computer name the same as my username?

No. The computer name identifies the device, while the username identifies the user account.

4. What characters can I use in a Windows 11 computer name?

You can use letters, numbers, and hyphens. Spaces and special characters are not allowed.

5. Do I need to restart after changing my computer name?

Yes. The changes only apply after a system restart.