How to Change Your PC Name in Windows 10

To change your PC name in Windows 10, select Start > Settings > System > About, then select Rename this PC. Type a new name, select Next, and restart your PC when asked.

The new name shows on your network, in Bluetooth lists, and in Remote Desktop. It doesn’t change your user account name.

Applies to: Windows 10. You need an administrator account. Checked against Microsoft Learn on September 25, 2026.

Rename your PC in Settings

1. Select Start > Settings > System.
2. Scroll down the left side and select About.
3. Under Device specifications, check the current Device name, then select Rename this PC.

4. Type the new name and select Next.

5. Select Restart now, or Restart later if you want to save your work first. The name changes after the restart.

Naming rules

• Use up to 15 characters.
• Use letters, numbers, and hyphens. No spaces or symbols such as @, #, or &.
• Don’t use only numbers.
• Give every PC on your network a different name, such as ALEX-LAPTOP and ALEX-DESKTOP.

Rename your PC in System Properties

1. Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.
2. On the Computer Name tab, select Change.
3. Type a new Computer name, select OK, and restart.

This window also lets you join a workgroup or domain.

Rename your PC with PowerShell

1. Right-click Start and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Type Rename-Computer -NewName "ALEX-LAPTOP" -Restart and press Enter.

The PC restarts right away with the new name, so save your work first.

What changes and what doesn’t

• Changes: the name other PCs, printers, and Bluetooth devices see, and the name in your Microsoft account device list.
• Doesn’t change: your user account name or your user folder, such as C:\Users\Alex.

If you can’t rename your PC

• Rename this PC is grayed out: sign in with an administrator account.
• Work or school PC: your organization may manage the name. Ask your IT team.
• The old name still shows on the network: restart the PC, and give your router a few minutes to update.

Frequently asked questions

Will renaming my PC delete any files?

No. Your files, apps, and settings stay the same.

Where do I see my PC name?

In Settings > System > About, next to Device name.

Can I change it back?

Yes. Rename it again the same way.

To connect to this PC by name, see how to set up Remote Desktop on Windows 10. To connect by address, see how to find your IP address in Windows 10. Microsoft’s command reference is Rename-Computer. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.

Matt Jacobs

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.

His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.