Can I change Computer name?

[moep]

I'm running a network with Win 2k servers and majority Win '98 se PC's. I need to change all the PC's (not the servers) names as the naming convention is all over the place. Are there any implications on doing this? Or is it O.K. to go ahead and re-name the PC's on the network?


Tahnks,
Moep

[muno]

With w9x computers you should be able to change the names without problem as they don't link to the domain the way nt4/w2k computers do.

At least I've never been able to create a computer account for w9x computer
-M

[moep]

Thanks muno, thats put my mind at ease!

[Siliconjunkie]

Correct Muno, 9x machines don't "join" domains like NT/2k machines do. Renaming will cause no problems with authentication.

[moep]

I have 2 win 2k and 3 XP prof Pc's. What will I have to do to these if i want to change the names?

[muno]

Disconnect them from domain, reboot, change name, reboot, create a new account in the server, join domain.
-M

//edit: Uh. Delete the old account from the server before joining them to the domain though
And reboot after joining.

[moep]

Thank You!

[Siliconjunkie]

Here is what I do. From the client PC, join a workgroup which will remove it from the domain, reboot it, then change name, reboot, rejoin domain. You will still have to remove the account in the domain.

I think this is the same as what Muno is saying, could be a language thing.