How to Find PC Name in Windows 11: A Quick and Easy Guide

By / September 5, 2025

Have you ever been asked, “What’s your computer name?” Maybe while connecting to Wi-Fi printers, setting up remote desktop, or even troubleshooting with tech support. If you’re running Windows 11, finding your PC name is simple—but there are several ways to do it.

This guide will walk you through all the methods step by step. Whether you prefer using Settings, Command Prompt, or even the classic Control Panel, you’ll be able to grab your PC’s name in just a few clicks.

Why Do You Need to Know Your PC Name?

Before jumping into the methods, let’s quickly look at why knowing your computer’s name is useful.

1. For Network Sharing

When you share files, folders, or printers across a local network, other devices identify your computer by its name.

2. For Remote Desktop Connections

If you use Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), you’ll need the exact PC name to connect.

3. For Troubleshooting

Tech support often asks for your computer’s name to track it on a network or diagnose issues.

4. For Personalization

You might just want to rename your device to something fun like “GamingBeastPC” instead of a random string of numbers.

Method 1: Find PC Name via Windows Settings

The Settings app in Windows 11 is the easiest way for most people.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Click on System in the left sidebar.

  3. Scroll down and select About.

  4. Under Device Specifications, you’ll see Device name—that’s your PC name.

Why This Works Best

This method is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any technical commands.

Method 2: Find PC Name Using Command Prompt

For users who like the old-school method, Command Prompt works perfectly.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

  2. Type the command:

    hostname

  3. Press Enter, and your PC name will appear instantly.

When to Use This

This method is handy when you’re already working in Command Prompt for other tasks.

Method 3: Find PC Name Using PowerShell

PowerShell gives you more flexibility than Command Prompt.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).

  2. Type the following command:

    Get-ComputerInfo | Select CsName

  3. Hit Enter, and it will display your computer’s name.

Bonus Tip

You can also use:

$env:COMPUTERNAME

This short command instantly returns the name.

Method 4: Find PC Name via System Properties

This is the more traditional way, similar to older versions of Windows.

Steps:

  1. Right-click This PC on your desktop or in File Explorer.

  2. Select Properties.

  3. Under Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings, you’ll see the PC name.

Why Use This Method?

If you’re already browsing through File Explorer, this is quick and easy.

Method 5: Find PC Name from Control Panel

Even though Windows 11 emphasizes Settings, Control Panel is still around.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + S and search for Control Panel.

  2. Go to System and Security > System.

  3. Look for Computer Name—your PC name will be displayed there.

Old but Gold

Many IT professionals still prefer this method because it’s familiar.

Method 6: Find PC Name Using Task Manager

Task Manager isn’t just for checking performance—it can also show your computer name.

Steps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  2. Click the Performance tab.

  3. On the left, select CPU.

  4. At the top-right corner, you’ll see your computer name.

Method 7: Find PC Name via Run Command

If you like quick shortcuts, the Run dialog is a great choice.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run.

  2. Type:

    sysdm.cpl

  3. Press Enter.

  4. In the System Properties window, you’ll find your PC name.

Method 8: Find PC Name on a Network

If you’re connected to a local network, you can identify your PC name from another computer.

Steps:

  1. Open File Explorer on another computer.

  2. Click on Network in the left pane.

  3. Look for your computer name in the list of connected devices.

Method 9: Find PC Name Using BIOS Information

This method is more advanced but useful if you’re troubleshooting deeper system issues.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter.

  2. The System Information window will open.

  3. Look for System Name—that’s your PC name.

How to Rename Your PC in Windows 11

Sometimes, the default name looks something like DESKTOP-AB12CDE. That’s not exactly memorable. Luckily, you can rename it.

Steps to Rename PC:

  1. Go to Settings > System > About.

  2. Click Rename this PC.

  3. Enter your desired name (e.g., JohnsLaptop or Workstation1).

  4. Restart your computer for changes to apply.

Tips for Naming Your PC

  • Avoid spaces—use dashes or underscores.

  • Keep it short and simple.

  • If you’re on a network, make it unique to avoid confusion.

Common Problems When Finding PC Name

Sometimes users run into issues like:

  • PC name not showing correctly – Restart your device after renaming.

  • Duplicate names on a network – Ensure your device has a unique name.

  • Confusion between Device Name and Hostname – They’re usually the same, but on a domain, they might differ.

Quick Comparison of Methods

Method Difficulty Speed Best For
Settings Easy Fast Everyday users
Command Prompt Medium Instant Advanced users
PowerShell Medium Instant IT professionals
System Properties Easy Fast Classic Windows users
Control Panel Easy Moderate Old-school users
Task Manager Easy Fast Multitaskers
Run Command Medium Fast Shortcut lovers
Network View Easy Slow Multi-device environments
BIOS/System Info Advanced Moderate Technical troubleshooting

Conclusion

Finding your PC name in Windows 11 is quick and easy, no matter which method you choose. From the Settings app for beginners to Command Prompt for advanced users, there’s an option for everyone.

And if you don’t like the default name, you can always rename it to something more personal and memorable. After all, your computer is part of your daily life—it deserves a name you’ll actually remember.

FAQs

1. What’s the fastest way to find my PC name in Windows 11?
The quickest method is pressing Windows + I, going to System > About, and checking Device name.

2. Is PC name the same as hostname?
Yes, in most cases. But if you’re connected to a domain, the hostname might be managed differently.

3. Can I change my PC name without restarting?
No, a restart is required for the new name to apply fully.

4. Will renaming my PC affect installed programs?
No, installed apps and files remain untouched. Only the network identifier changes.

5. How long can a Windows PC name be?
Up to 15 characters is the recommended limit to avoid compatibility issues, especially on networks.

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