Stepwise Tutorial: Change Computer Name Remotely Using Windows PowerShell

Can I change a computer name remotely on Windows 10?

“Can I change computer name remotely on Windows 10?” Absolutely! Individuals possessing administrative privileges within the network or domain have the capability to alter the name of another computer within the same network or domain. This functionality proves particularly advantageous for IT administrators, as it eliminates the need to physically relocate every time a distinct name needs to be assigned to a remote computer.

How to change computer name remotely on Windows 10 & 11

PowerShell is a powerful tool. It allows you to remotely take control of a computer, for example, restart or shut down a remote computer. It is also widely recognized as the preferred method for modifying the name of a remote computer. By leveraging the Rename-Computer cmdlet, which made its debut in Windows PowerShell 3.0, users can conveniently rename either their local machine or a computer located remotely. To assist you, I have outlined the comprehensive procedure below, specifically addressing how to remotely change the computer name via PowerShell on both Windows 10 and 11.

Step 1. Begin by launching Windows PowerShell with administrative privileges.

Step 2. Utilize the subsequent command:

Rename-Computer -ComputerName "ExistingRemoteName" -NewName "NewRemoteName" -DomainCredential DomainUsername -Force

Make sure to substitute "ExistingRemoteName" with the current computer name of the remote PC, "NewRemoteName" with the desired new name for the remote PC, and "DomainUsername" with an administrative domain user account. Refer to the example below:

Step 3. Provide the necessary credentials for the domain user and proceed by clicking OK.

Step 4. A prompt will appear, requesting you to restart the remote computer for the changes to take effect. Employ the following command to initiate the remote computer's restart:

Restart-Computer -ComputerName ExistingRemoteName -Credential DomainUsername -Force

Replace "ExistingRemoteName" with the previous name of the computer and "DomainUsername" with the administrative domain user account. Observe the example provided below:

Step 5. Enter your domain user account credentials once again and click OK. The remote computer will now initiate the restart process. Upon completion of the reboot, the remote computer will reflect the newly assigned name as intended.

Bonus tip: Simple & intuitive GUI tool for changing computer name remotely

In case you find working with cmdlets challenging, an alternative option is to utilize a user-friendly GUI tool for remotely changing the computer name. One highly recommended tool is AnyViewer, a reliable and free remote desktop software that grants you remote access to a computer, enabling comprehensive control over it. By leveraging this tool, you can effortlessly modify the computer name from a remote location, as if you were physically present in front of the machine.

To guide you through the process of changing the computer name remotely using the GUI via AnyViewer, kindly follow the outlined steps below.

Step 1. Download, install, and run the remote access tool on both local and remote devices.

Step 2. On the remote device, sign up for AnyViewer and sign in to the account in advance.

Step 3. On the local device, log in to the same account, then go to "Device" and locate the remote PC. Click it and choose "One-click control" to access the unattended device with one click.

Step 4. Then you can remote into the remote computer and change its name just as if you're sitting in front of it. Navigate to the following: Start Menu > Settings > System > About. Now click Rename this PC under Device specifications.

It's recommended to upgrade to an advanced plan to enjoy more rights:
▶ Connect in privacy mode: You can black the screen and block the mouse and keyboard of the remote computer to protect your privacy when your remote computer is located in an open place.
▶Assign more devices: You can assign more devices to the same account for a secure one-click remote connection.
▶ Control more PCs: You can control more computers from one computer at the same time.
▶ High-image quality: You can change the mode to high-image quality for a better remtoe connection experience.
▶ ...

The bottom line

In conclusion, when it comes to changing the computer name remotely on Windows 10 and 11, users have multiple options available. While PowerShell offers a powerful command-line approach, for those seeking a more intuitive and user-friendly experience, AnyViewer emerges as a highly recommended choice. As a reliable and free remote desktop software, AnyViewer enables seamless access and full control over remote computers, making changing computer names as effortless as if you were physically present. By choosing AnyViewer, users can simplify and enhance their remote management tasks with ease and efficiency.