The hostname of the Ubuntu install on my netbook reads more like a barcode than a ‘computer name’.
This is largely my own fault; the Ubuntu installer lets you set a custom ‘computer name’ during set-up.
For the most part we have very little reason to remember our computer names; indeed, my reason for changing mine is purely for aesthetic reasons.
Thankfully changing computer name in Ubuntu 11.10 is simple enough: –
- Press ALT+F2
- Type: ‘gksu gedit /etc/hostname /etc/hosts‘
- Hit Return/Enter
- Enter your password when prompted
- A text editor window will appear with two tabs open
- Edit the name (highlighted in images below) in BOTH tabs to something you want, making sure they match.
- Hit save, exit and reboot.
