Table of Contents
View the current host name
Temporarily modify the host name (invalid after restart)
Permanently modify the host name (recommended method)
Modify /etc/hostname
Update /etc/hosts
Refresh settings (optional)
Verify that the modification is successful
Home System Tutorial LINUX how to change hostname in linux

how to change hostname in linux

Jul 20, 2025 am 01:31 AM
linux hostname

Modifying the Linux host name requires step-by-step operation to ensure that it takes effect. First, check the current hostname or hostnamectl commands available; second, temporarily modify the sudo hostname new-hostname command, but it fails after restart; permanent modification requires editing the /etc/hostname file and updating the hostname in /etc/hosts. Some systems can use sudo hostnamectl set-hostname new-hostname to refresh the settings; finally verify the modification results through hostname, hostnamectl and cat /etc/hostname to ensure synchronous updates to avoid errors after restart.

how to change hostname in linux

Changing the Linux host name is actually not difficult, but many people are prone to making mistakes in the first operation or the change does not take effect. In fact, it can be done in just a few simple steps, and the key is to use the right method.

how to change hostname in linux

View the current host name

Before changing, it is best to confirm what the current host name is.
You can run this command directly:

 hostname

Or more intuitive, use:

how to change hostname in linux
 hostnamectl

This command is particularly useful on systemd-based systems (such as CentOS 7 /Ubuntu 16.04). It will display the current host name, operating system version, kernel information, etc.


Temporarily modify the host name (invalid after restart)

If you just want to test it, or change the alias temporarily, you can use this command:

how to change hostname in linux
 sudo hostname new-hostname

Just change new-hostname to the name you want.
The advantage of this method is that it takes effect immediately, and the disadvantage is that it will be restored to its original state after restarting. Suitable for temporary debugging.


To permanently change the hostname, two things need to be done:

  • Modify the configuration file
  • Restart or refresh the hostname service

Modify /etc/hostname

Open this file:

 sudo nano /etc/hostname

Delete the original name inside and replace it with a new one. Save and exit.

Update /etc/hosts

This step is often overlooked, but it is very important.
Open the /etc/hosts file:

 sudo nano /etc/hosts

Found a line like this:

 127.0.1.1 old-hostname

Change old-hostname to a new name.

Refresh settings (optional)

Some systems will not be automatically updated after modification. You can use the following command to let the system reread the host name:

 sudo hostnamectl set-hostname new-hostname

This will take effect without restarting.


Verify that the modification is successful

Run these commands to check:

  • hostname
  • hostnamectl
  • cat /etc/hostname

If all the new name you set is displayed, you will basically be done.


Although the hostname looks like a small thing, it is important for server management, network communication and logging. Don't rush to type the command when changing. Remember to update the configuration file synchronously, otherwise there may be problems after restarting. Basically all is it, not complicated but it is easy to ignore details.

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