How to Change VPS Server Hostname? Change Your VPS Hostname Today!

Changing a virtual private server’s (VPS) hostname is a frequent job that may be required for several reasons, including enhancing server identification, adhering to network naming conventions, or just customizing your server setup. 

With a focus on various operating systems and best practices to guarantee a seamless transition, this comprehensive tutorial will take you step-by-step guide: How to Change VPS Server Hostname? the process of changing the hostname on a virtual private server.

What is a Hostname?

A hostname is a unique label assigned to a device connected to a computer network. It serves as an identifier for the device within the network, enabling other devices to locate and communicate with it.

Hostnames are a fundamental component of the Domain Name System (DNS), which translates human-readable names into IP addresses, the numerical labels used for routing data across the network. 

By using hostnames, users can easily remember and access devices and services on the network without needing to memorize complex numerical addresses.

In most cases, a hostname consists of two parts: the name of the host itself and the domain it belongs to, separated by a dot (e.g., “server.example.com“).

The structure of a hostname allows for a hierarchical organization, where the domain name represents the broader network (such as a company or an organization), and the specific name identifies the individual device within that network. 

This hierarchical approach facilitates easier management and scalability of networks, as new devices can be added under the appropriate domain without conflicts.

Hostnames play a critical role in both local and wide area networks, including the global internet. They are used by a variety of network protocols and services to establish connections, transfer data, and ensure the smooth operation of networked applications. 

For instance, when a user types a URL into a web browser, the hostname within that URL is resolved to an IP address by DNS servers, enabling the browser to retrieve the desired web page from the appropriate server. 

Overall, hostnames enhance the usability, organization, and efficiency of computer networks, making it simpler for users and systems to interact and communicate.

Why Change VPS Server Hostname?

Changing your VPS (Virtual Private Server) hostname can be important for several reasons, including:

1: Branding and Professionalism

A custom hostname that reflects your business or personal brand makes your server look more professional. Instead of a generic or default hostname, a personalized one enhances credibility and recognition.

2: Easier Management and Identification

When managing multiple servers, unique and descriptive hostnames help in easily identifying each server’s purpose or function. This reduces the risk of errors and simplifies server administration tasks.

3: DNS and Email Configuration

A properly configured hostname is crucial for DNS (Domain Name System) and email services. It ensures that your server is correctly identified and reduces issues with email delivery, particularly with anti-spam measures that check the validity of hostnames.

4: Compliance and Security

Some security policies and compliance requirements mandate specific hostname configurations. Changing your hostname to meet these standards can be necessary for regulatory compliance and enhanced security protocols.

5: Troubleshooting and Support

When seeking technical support, a clear and unique hostname helps support teams quickly identify and resolve issues. It also aids in logging and monitoring, making it easier to track server activity and troubleshoot problems.

6: SEO and Web Analytics

For web servers, a hostname that matches your domain name can positively impact SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and web analytics. It ensures consistency across your online presence and improves search engine rankings.

Changing your VPS hostname is a simple yet significant step in ensuring your server’s smooth operation, security, and professionalism. It helps in management, compliance, and the overall performance of your web services.

Changing the Hostname on Different Operating Systems

The method to change the hostname varies depending on the operating system of your VPS. Here are the steps for some of the most common ones:

1: Changing Hostname on Ubuntu/Debian

Step 1: Check the Current Hostname

First, check the current hostname using:

• hostname

Step 2: Change the Hostname Temporarily

To change the hostname temporarily (until the next reboot), use:

• sudo hostnamectl set-hostname new-hostname

Step 3: Change the Hostname Permanently

• To make the change permanent, you need to edit the /etc/hostname and /etc/hosts files.

Edit the /etc/hostname file:

• sudo nano /etc/hostname
• Replace the existing hostname with the new hostname and save the file.

Next, edit the /etc/hosts file to reflect the new hostname:

• sudo nano /etc/hosts

Find the line starting with 127.0.1.1 and change the old hostname to the new hostname. It should look something like this:

• arduino
• 127.0.1.1   new-hostname
• Save the file and exit the editor.

Step 4: Restart the System (Optional)

Reboot the system to apply the changes:

• sudo reboot

2: Changing Hostname on CentOS/RHEL

Step 1: Check the Current Hostname

Check the current hostname:

• hostname

Step 2: Change the Hostname Temporarily

To change the hostname temporarily:

• sudo hostnamectl set-hostname new-hostname

Step 3: Change the Hostname Permanently

Edit the /etc/hostname file:

• sudo nano /etc/hostname
• Replace the old hostname with the new one and save the file.

Edit the /etc/hosts file to update the hostname:

• sudo nano /etc/hosts

Change the line with 127.0.0.1 or 127.0.1.1 to the new hostname:

• arduino
• 127.0.0.1   new-hostname
• Save the file and exit.

Step 4: Restart the System (Optional)

Reboot to apply changes:

• sudo reboot

3: Changing Hostname on Fedora

The process on Fedora is similar to CentOS/RHEL:

Step 1: Check the Current Hostname

• hostname

Step 2: Change the Hostname Temporarily

• sudo hostnamectl set-hostname new-hostname

Step 3: Change the Hostname Permanently

• Edit the /etc/hostname and /etc/hosts files as described above, replacing the old hostname with the new one.

Step 4: Restart the System (Optional)

• sudo reboot

4: Changing Hostname on Windows Server

Changing the hostname on a Windows Server involves the following steps:

Step 1: Open Server Manager

• Open the Server Manager from the Start menu.

Step 2: Access System Properties

• Click on “Local Server” on the left sidebar. In the “Properties” section, click on the current computer name.

Step 3: Change the Hostname

• In the System Properties window, click on the “Change” button. Enter the new hostname in the “Computer name” field and click “OK.”

Step 4: Restart the System

• You will be prompted to restart the computer for the changes to take effect. Click “Restart Now” to reboot the server.

Post-Change Verification

After changing the hostname, verify the change by running:

• hostname

or

• hostnamectl

Additionally, check that network services are functioning correctly and that any dependent applications recognize the new hostname.

What Is the Difference Between a Hostname and a Domain Name?

It’s essential for anyone working in web development, IT, or even just website management to grasp the ideas behind hostname and domain name. Despite their frequent interchangeability, these names refer to different parts of the architecture of the web. 

What Is a Hostname?

A hostname is a label assigned to a device (a host) on a network. It is used to identify the device uniquely within that specific network. Hostnames are critical for network management and communication as they facilitate the identification and addressing of computers, servers, or any device connected to a network.

Characteristics of a Hostname:

What Is a Domain Name?

A domain name is an address used to identify a website on the internet. It serves as a human-readable form of an IP address and is essential for locating and accessing websites. Domain names are a part of the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) used to access websites.

Characteristics of a Domain Name:

1. Structure: Domain names are hierarchical and typically consist of several parts separated by dots. For instance, in “www.example.com”:

• “www”: A subdomain or hostname, often representing the World Wide Web.
• “example”: The second-level domain, usually the name chosen by the domain owner.
• “.com”: The top-level domain (TLD), indicating the domain’s category or country code.

2. Registration: Domain names must be registered through a domain registrar, which ensures that each domain name is unique globally.
3. DNS Resolution: Domain names are resolved to IP addresses through DNS servers, enabling browsers to locate and connect to the appropriate web server.
4. Branding and Accessibility: Domain names are crucial for branding, marketing, and ensuring that users can easily find and remember websites.

Key Differences Between Hostname and Domain Name

While both hostnames and domain names are used for identifying and accessing resources on networks, their roles and scopes differ significantly.

1: Scope and Usage:

• Hostname: Primarily used within a network to identify individual devices. It is local to a specific network or subnetwork.
• Domain Name: Used globally on the internet to locate websites and services. It serves as an address for web presence.

2: Hierarchical Structure:

• Hostname: Typically, a single label (e.g., “office-pc1”) or a part of a fully qualified domain name (FQDN).
• Domain Name: Composed of multiple levels (e.g., “www.example.com”), indicating different hierarchical levels in the DNS.

3: Registration and Uniqueness:

• Hostname: Unique within its local network but does not require global registration.
• Domain Name: Must be globally unique and registered through a domain registrar to ensure exclusivity.

4: Functionality:

• Hostname: Used for internal communication within a network. For example, identifying computers in a corporate network.
• Domain Name: Used for accessing websites and services on the internet, providing a user-friendly way to reach online resources.

Integration of Hostnames and Domain Names

Hostnames and domain names often intersect, especially in fully qualified domain names (FQDNs). An FQDN is a complete domain name that specifies its exact location in the hierarchy of the DNS. For example, “server1.department.company.com” is an FQDN where:

• “server1”: Hostname within the department’s network.
• “department.company.com”: Domain name hierarchy.

In this context, the hostname “server1” is part of the broader domain name, making it possible to precisely locate the server on the internet.

While hostnames and domain names are both integral to network and internet operations, they serve different purposes and operate at different scopes. Hostnames identify individual devices within a local network, ensuring smooth communication and management. 

Domain names provide a user-friendly way to access websites and services on the internet, crucial for web presence and navigation. Understanding the distinctions and interplay between these two elements is essential for effective network administration and internet usage.

Conclusion

Changing the hostname of your VPS is a straightforward task that can be completed in a few steps, regardless of the operating system. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your server’s hostname is updated correctly and consistently. 

Remember to verify the changes and ensure that all associated services and applications continue to function as expected. A well-maintained and properly named server can greatly enhance the efficiency and manageability of your IT infrastructure. 

Change your VPS hostname today and experience the benefits of a well-organized network environment!   

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)

1: What is a hostname, and why would I need to change it on my VPS?

A hostname is a human-readable label that corresponds to the IP address of your server, making it easier to identify and connect to the machine. You might need to change the hostname to better reflect the server’s purpose, improve network management, or comply with organizational naming conventions.

2: How do I check the current hostname of my VPS?

To check the current hostname, you can use the hostname command in the terminal. Simply log in to your VPS via SSH and type hostname. This will display the current hostname of your server.

3: What are the steps to change the hostname on a Linux-based VPS?

Changing the hostname on a Linux-based VPS involves several steps:

1. Temporary Change: Use the command sudo hostname new-hostname to change it temporarily. This will be reset after a reboot.
2. Permanent Change:
   1. Edit the /etc/hostname file with your desired hostname by running sudo nano /etc/hostname and replace the existing name.
   2. Update the /etc/hosts file by adding a line 127.0.0.1 new-hostname if it’s not already there.
3. Apply Changes: Reboot the server using sudo reboot to apply the changes.

4: Will changing the hostname affect my VPS services?

Changing the hostname can affect services that rely on the hostname for configuration or communication. It’s important to check and update any service configuration files or scripts that use the hostname to ensure they continue to function correctly after the change.

5: Is it necessary to inform DNS about the new hostname?

Changing the hostname on your VPS does not automatically update DNS records. If the hostname is associated with a specific domain, you’ll need to update your DNS settings to reflect the new hostname. This usually involves updating the A record for your domain to point to the correct IP address with the new hostname.