Changing the hostname of your AlmaLinux 8 system is a straightforward process that allows you to customize the identity of your server. Whether you want to align it with your brand or make it more memorable, this guide will walk you through the steps to change the hostname. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your server reflects the desired identity and reinforces your professional image.

Checking the Current Hostname

Before changing the hostname, it’s essential to know the current hostname of your system. To check the hostname, open a terminal and use the following command:

hostnamectl

The output will display information about your system, including the current hostname. Here’s an example output:

Static hostname: vps.server.com
Icon name: computer-vm
Chassis: vm
Machine ID: 8adaa7bd77339b01baf08af96bad26e5
Boot ID: 77943c7642974555a05f635b40fa900d
Virtualization: kvm
Operating System: AlmaLinux 8.3 RC (Purple Manul)
CPE OS Name: cpe:/o:almalinux:almalinux:8.3:rc
Kernel: Linux 4.18.0-240.15.1.el8_3.x86_64
Architecture: x86-64

Changing the Hostname

Once you have identified the current hostname, you can proceed to change it. AlmaLinux 8 provides two methods to change the hostname: using the hostnamectl command or the NetworkManager’s Text User Interface (TUI). Let’s explore both options.

Method 1: Using hostnamectl

To change the hostname using the hostnamectl command, follow these steps:

  1. Open a terminal and enter the following command to set the new hostname:
sudo hostnamectl set-hostname example.nethostnamectl

Replace example .net with your desired hostname.

  1. (Optional) You can also set a pretty hostname for better readability. Use the following command:
sudo hostnamectl set-hostname "example production server" --pretty

Modify the text within the double quotes to match your preferred pretty hostname.

  1. Next, add the record for the new hostname in the /etc/hosts file. Open the file using your favorite editor:
sudo nano /etc/hosts

Add the following entry at the end of the file:

127.0.0.1 example.net

Save and exit the file.

  1. Restart the systemd-hostnamed service to apply the changes:
sudo systemctl restart systemd-hostnamed

By following these steps, you have successfully changed the hostname of your AlmaLinux 8 system using the hostnamectl command.

Method 2: Using NetworkManager’s TUI

Alternatively, you can change the hostname using NetworkManager’s Text User Interface (TUI) by following these steps:

  1. Open a terminal and enter the following command to launch the TUI:
sudo nmtui
  1. In the TUI, select “Set system hostname” and press Enter.
  2. Enter the new hostname in the designated field and press Enter.
  3. Exit the TUI by selecting “Quit” and press Enter.
  4. Restart the systemd-hostnamed service to apply the changes:
sudo systemctl restart systemd-hostnamed

Congratulations! You have successfully changed the hostname of your AlmaLinux 8 system using NetworkManager’s TUI.

Verifying the Change

To verify that the hostname has been fully changed, enter the hostnamectl command in the terminal:

hostnamectl

The output will display the updated hostname information. Here’s an example output:

Static hostname: example.net
Pretty hostname: example production server
Icon name: computer-vm
Chassis: vm
Machine ID: 8adaa7bd77339b01baf08af96bad26e5
Boot ID: 77943c7642974555a05f635b40fa900d
Virtualization: kvm
Operating System: AlmaLinux 8.3 RC (Purple Manul)
CPE OS Name: cpe:/o:almalinux:almalinux:8.3:rc
Kernel: Linux 4.18.0-240.15.1.el8_3.x86_64
Architecture: x86-64

Ensure that the displayed static hostname and pretty hostname match your desired changes. If they do, you have successfully changed the hostname of your AlmaLinux 8 system.

Conclusion

Customizing the hostname of your AlmaLinux 8 system is a simple yet impactful way to personalize your server and align it with your brand identity. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily change the hostname using either the hostnamectl command or NetworkManager’s TUI. Remember to verify the changes using the hostnamectl command to ensure that the new hostname is applied correctly.

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