Cannot change computer name in 2000

[wieglenda]

Hi, I need to change the computer name and when I attempt to change it in the network identification tab I get a "General Network Error Occurred" error and it will not change. I searched everything, and can't seem to find an answer. Can anyone help me?

Thomas

 

[wolluf]

Are you on a domain or a workgroup?

 

[wieglenda]

Workgroup, no domain.

 

[wolluf]

1. Logged on with Administrator access?
2. Are you using the wizard (Network ID button) or manual (Properties button) method? Try the other.
3. Name you are changing to doesn't exist in the workgroup?
4. Can you change the workgroup name (if yes, then possibly computer name, then workgroup back to what you want).

 

[wieglenda]

I've done all that... I've tried both methods. The name doesn't exist on the network, in fact I've tried a bunch of names, same error. Yes, I can change the workgroup name, but I can't change the computer name at all. As soon as I press the apply button, a window pops up and tells me that it can't change the name and a general network error has occurred. I've looked through all of the microsoft knowledge base and have done an extensive search online, and I have found any reference to a general networking error.

Thanks, Thomas

 

[wolluf]

Is networking functioning correctly on this machine otherwise? (can you access the rest of the network/can network access it)?

Is the Computer Browser service running on this machine?

 

[wieglenda]

Yes, I can see other computers in the workgroup and the computer browser service is started and running.

 

[wolluf]

Thomas,

Puzzling! Are there any entries in the event log (run eventvwr.msc) which might cast some light? Have you tried with machine disconnected from network (unplug cable)? What about with NIC removed? (must admit I'm not sure if it would let you then).

You could try a repair reinstall (keeps data, apps, settings, loses windows updates - need to reapply service packs - unless you've an install disk with latest included (slipstreamed) & windows updates). To do that, boot from 2k install Cd, choose new install (not repair). It should find your installation, and offer to repair it (if it doesn't, abandon install) - accept this (type R). Then mainly like normal install (no guarantees it would fix this, but....)

 

[MitchCumstein]

Another option might be to run SYSPREP on it, and change the name on reboot. Should be able to keep programs, service packs, etc... , but it would also retain any fundamental problems. Just a thought

 

[wolluf]

Mitch - that sounds like a good idea (bit of lateral thinking?)

 

[wieglenda]

I have attempted the network cable removal and that didn't work. What is SYSPREP? I've never heard of it before...

Thomas

 

[MitchCumstein]

Sysprep essentially strips any ID info off the OS so you can image a system and then deploy to multiple computers. In your situation, you would run it, reboot, and then re-enter all the info typically entered during a fresh install (time zone, product key, computer name, etc...)

Get it @

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/tr...echnol/windows2000serv/downloads/syprep11.asp

Of course, back up first in case thing go awry!