Homegroup name associated with pc that no longer exists.

We just got a new laptop, and, while connecting it to the Homegroup, noticed the Homegroup is apparently named after the pc that was used to first create it... which no longer exists.

I managed to find some info (in this great forum), that seemed to indicate we have to all quit the homegroup and create a new one, and that there is no way to just rename the homegroup.

1.) If this info is correct, please verify, and,

2.) Is there any harm in leaving the homegroup named as it is? Will this cause any issues down the line?

So far, all seems to be working fine. I recognize the name of the old pc and we all know the password to it. I just want to know if there is any good reason to go through the trouble of changing the homegroup name. It seems like more work than I care to do at this point.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Have you tried walking though the steps in this thread?

Homegroup - Rename in Windows 7 Navigation Pane - Windows 7 Help Forums

It requires editing the registry so make sure to back it up before attempting.


You are talking about the "HomeGroup" not the "Workgroup" correct?

It's simpler to just use a workgroup home group has never been very good and uses ipv6 adding traffic to the network

samuria said:

It's simpler to just use a workgroup home group has never been very good and uses ipv6 adding traffic to the network

Thank you Samuria, I've never heard of a 'workgroup'. I'll do some research into that.