Changing the hostname on Windows Server versions 2012 R2, 2016, and 2019 is a straightforward process. Below is a tutorial on how to change the hostname for each of these versions.
Windows Server 2012 R2
Step 1: Log in as an Administrator
Log in to your Windows Server 2012 R2 with an administrator account. You need administrative privileges to change the hostname.
Step 2: Open System Properties
Press Win + X and select “System.” Alternatively, you can right-click on “Computer” in the Start menu and choose “Properties.”
Step 3: Change Settings
In the System Properties window, click on the “Change settings” link in the “Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings” section.
Step 4: Change the Computer Name
In the “Computer Name/Domain Changes” window, click the “Change” button.
Step 5: Enter a New Name
Enter the new hostname in the “Computer Name” field and click “OK.”
Step 6: Restart
You will be prompted to restart your computer to apply the changes. Click “OK” to restart your server.
Windows Server 2016 and 2019
The process for changing the hostname in Windows Server 2016 and 2019 is very similar to that of 2012 R2.
Step 1: Log in as an Administrator
Log in to your Windows Server 2016 or 2019 with an administrator account.
Step 2: Open System Properties
Press Win + X and select “System.” Alternatively, you can right-click on “Computer” in the Start menu and choose “Properties.”
Step 3: Change Settings
In the System Properties window, click on the “Change settings” link in the “Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings” section.
Step 4: Change the Computer Name
In the “Computer Name/Domain Changes” window, click the “Change” button.
Step 5: Enter a New Name
Enter the new hostname in the “Computer Name” field and click “OK.”
Step 6: Restart
You will be prompted to restart your computer to apply the changes. Click “OK” to restart your server.
In all three versions (2012 R2, 2016, and 2019), changing the hostname requires administrative access, and you will need to restart your server for the changes to take effect. Always ensure you have proper backups and inform relevant parties before making changes to the hostname on a production server.