Hello,
Is there a way I can change the names of the computers on this site?
(I've convinced some friends of mine to let me install seti@home on their computers and would like to make them easier to identify than for instance PC-8X7M04J)

The names you see ( and only you see them) are the names that were chosen when the operating system was installed, either Windows or Linux.

So you would need to change them there.

For instance Windows 10:

" Go to Settings > System > About and select the Rename PC button in the right column under PC. Then type the name you want to rename the computer."

For Linux, I suggest you look online for your distro.

Unfortunately, no. BOINC reads the computer name directly from the operating system. The name can certainly be changed in, say, Windows - but you would have to persuade your friends to let you change some relatively low-level information, and ensure that both you and they understand the possible consequences.

It's relatively rare to rely on a computer name in domestic settings, but it can happen if your friends have multiple computers and want to transfer information between them over a local network. The critical thing to watch out for is that you can't have two machines with the same name on the same network.

Thanks, I feared as much.

Interesting info, thanks.

Bernie is right,

The computer name is what was automatically given when setting up the PC (which your's looks like it was) or what you chose.

It is simply the domain name on the network so it is easier to find by other computers rather than use an IP address that could change.

In Win7 'right click' on "Computer" either on desktop or from the start menu and select "Settings."

You will get a system dialogue with a button called "Change."

(It is similar in WinXP and somewhat similar in Linux depending on your distro.)

You can change your computer name there.

A reboot or re-login may \ will be required.

(The only issue to this is if you have some software setup to speak to each computer such as VNC. This however simply requires you to change the computer name in that software.)

It is a minor change and will have near no effect on your normal PC usage.

As to whether SETI picks up the change is another matter.

...would like to make them easier to identify than for instance PC-8X7M04J...

I name my PC's based on their type: DC7100, Phenom etc... or their location or task Office1, Media1 etc..

It is easier to have a memorable name I agree.

Good to see you around on the forums Dutchy.

Thank you. Usefull info.