Computer name is normally given during the OS installing phases. But you could easily change the computer name with a simple GUI tool which is there in Ubuntu by default.There is a command line tool as well if you are so particular.GUI tool is simple and easy to use.Here is a step by step guide on how to change the computer name. Using GUI * Go to System -> Administration -> Networking * Network settings General Tab -> Host Settings -> Hostname: Specify the computer name * save changes and restart your computer. Using command line * Goto terminal and type the following sudo gedit /etc/hostname * Change your hostname Also take a look at /etc/hosts. And change your old name to your new one too.