12.11 Windows Specific Networking Software Connection Troubleshooting
12.11.8 Incorrect computer name or workgroup name
Another feature that will make the system unable to access the network is an incorrect computer name or workgroup name. Some common errors messages that may display if this happens are "User cannot see any other computers on the local network", "User cannot see any other computers on different networks", or "Clients cannot see the DHCP server, but do have an IP Address". When a computer is added to the domain or network, an account is created in the domain as well, to allow the computer to access resources in that domain. The computer name is registered, and, if that name changes, then the domain controller will not recognize it and will deny it access. The same rule applies to the workgroup name. The computer may be a part of a particular workgroup, and, if it has an incorrect workgroup name, then it will be denied network access. Administrators can change the computer name and then recreate an account in the domain for the new name should they forget the name of the computer.