Change Computer Name

CBarraford · #1 (**permalink**) 03-01-2007

I am trying to change my computer name (located in system prefs-> sharing) using unix

i've tried

Code:

Macbook-Pro:~ user$ hostname
Macbook-Pro.local
Macbook-Pro:~ user$ sudo hostname hello
Password:
Macbook-Pro:~ user$ hostname
hello

It seems to work, but my computer is still called "Macbook-Pro" in system prefs->sharing, even after reboot. When I reboot and run "hostname" i get Macbook-Pro.local again.

Any ideas?

CBarraford · #2 (**permalink**) 03-03-2007

solved my own problem

user plist buddy (more info at http://www.dreness.com/blog/archives/6)

the plist containing the computer and hostname is located /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/preferences.plist

you may need to change the permissions of that file first before you can edit its contents, and also it requires configd to be restarted (either from the command-line or reboot the computer).

CBarraford · #3 (**permalink**) 03-03-2007

found an even better way of doing it

Code:

sudo scutil --set ComputerName "newcompname"
sudo scutil --set LocalHostName "newhostname"

this is much smoother than editing the plist manually and does not require any restarts of any kind, the mac does it all for you.

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