Renaming your MacBook is a quick and easy process that allows you to customize your device and make it easily identifiable. Whether you’ve just purchased a new MacBook or want to give your current one a fresh name, this guide will walk you through the simple steps involved in changing the name of your MacBook.
Before You Begin
Before you rename your MacBook, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- The name you choose will be displayed in various locations throughout the macOS operating system, including the Finder, System Preferences, and iCloud.
- Changing your MacBook’s name will not affect any of the data or files stored on the device.
- You can rename your MacBook as many times as you like, but it’s best to choose a name that you’ll be happy with long-term.
Changing Your MacBook’s Name
There are two methods you can use to change the name of your MacBook: through System Preferences or through Terminal.
Method 1: Using System Preferences
- Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen.
- Select "System Preferences…" from the drop-down menu.
- Click on "Sharing" in the System Preferences window.
- Enter a new name for your MacBook in the "Computer Name" field.
- Click on the "Apply" button to save your changes.
Method 2: Using Terminal
- Open the Terminal application on your MacBook.
- Type the following command into the Terminal window:
sudo scutil --set ComputerName "new-name"
Replace "new-name" with the new name you want to give your MacBook.
- Press the "Enter" key.
- Enter your administrator password when prompted.
- Press the "Enter" key again.
Your MacBook’s name will now be changed to the new name you specified.
Changing Your MacBook’s Hostname
In addition to the Computer Name, your MacBook also has a Hostname. The Hostname is used for network identification purposes and is typically based on the Computer Name. However, you can change the Hostname separately if you wish.
Changing Your MacBook’s Hostname Using Terminal
- Open the Terminal application on your MacBook.
- Type the following command into the Terminal window:
sudo hostname "new-hostname"
Replace "new-hostname" with the new hostname you want to give your MacBook.
- Press the "Enter" key.
- Enter your administrator password when prompted.
- Press the "Enter" key again.
Your MacBook’s hostname will now be changed to the new hostname you specified.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any problems when changing the name of your MacBook, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure you are logged in as an administrator on your MacBook.
- Check that you have entered the new name correctly.
- If you are using Terminal to change the name, make sure you have entered the correct command and that you have sudo privileges.
- If you are still having problems, restart your MacBook and try again.
Conclusion
Changing the name of your MacBook is a simple and straightforward process that can be done in a few minutes. Whether you want to customize your device, make it easier to identify on a network, or simply give it a fresh start, the steps outlined in this guide will help you get the job done.
FAQ about How to Change MacBook Name
How do I change my MacBook name in System Preferences?
- Go to System Preferences > Sharing > Computer Name
- Edit the "Computer Name" field
- Click "Change"
How do I change my MacBook name on the command line?
- Open Terminal
- Run the command:
sudo scutil --set ComputerName <newname> - Enter your password when prompted
How do I change my MacBook name if I forgot my password?
- Reset your password using Apple ID
- Once you have reset your password, you can change your MacBook name as described in the previous methods.
How do I change my MacBook name remotely?
- Use Remote Desktop or Screen Sharing to access your MacBook remotely
- Change the name using the System Preferences or command line methods
How do I change the Bonjour name of my MacBook?
- Bonjour is used to identify devices on a local network
- To change the Bonjour name, go to System Preferences > Network > Advanced > WINS > Bonjour Name
- Edit the "Bonjour Name" field
How do I change the AirDrop name of my MacBook?
- AirDrop is used to share files between Apple devices
- To change the AirDrop name, go to System Preferences > Sharing > AirDrop > Options
- Edit the "Name" field
How do I change the Wi-Fi name of my MacBook?
- The Wi-Fi name is the name of the wireless network that your MacBook connects to
- To change the Wi-Fi name, go to System Preferences > Network > Wi-Fi > Advanced > Wi-Fi Name
- Edit the "Wi-Fi Name" field
How do I change the Bluetooth name of my MacBook?
- The Bluetooth name is the name that appears when your MacBook is visible to other Bluetooth devices
- To change the Bluetooth name, go to System Preferences > Bluetooth > Options
- Edit the "Name" field
How do I change the iCloud name of my MacBook?
- The iCloud name is the name that you use to sign in to iCloud
- To change the iCloud name, go to System Preferences > Apple ID > iCloud
- Click on "Manage" next to "Account Details"
- Edit the "iCloud ID" field
How do I change the username of my MacBook?
- The username is the name that you use to log in to your MacBook
- To change the username, go to System Preferences > Users & Groups
- Click on the padlock icon and enter your password
- Select your user account
- Click on "Change" next to "Name"
- Edit the "Full Name" field
