Get and Set Computer Name – Built-in Naming Tasks (4255192)

The SDA includes fully integrated Get Computer Name and Set Computer Name tasks as the standard and supported way to handle device naming during deployments.

These tasks are maintained and updated directly by the appliance, include full command-line flexibility, and support both Mid-level and Post-installation execution depending on your workflow.

Earlier naming methods such as WSNAME and the legacy Collect/Apply Computer Name tasks have been replaced by this built-in options.

Modern SDA versions automatically provide these updated tasks, and they receive improvements through regular appliance updates.

Organizations still using older custom naming tasks are encouraged to migrate to the built-in Get/Set Computer Name tasks to ensure full compatibility and support going forward.

Get Computer Name

To use the Get Computer Name rule:

1. Go to the Library module
2. Pre-Installation Tasks
3. Click Choose Action
4. Select Add Naming Rule.

When the page loads, give the task a name such as [SDA] - Get Computer Name.

Select the correct architecture and confirm that the full command line already contains the correct commands and parameters.

Set Computer Name

There are two ways to apply a computer name. In this article, each option is represented as A and B. 

A) As a Mid-Level Task

1. Go to the Library module
2. Open Mid-Level Tasks
3. Click Choose Action
4. Select Add Naming Rule.

Name the task, for example: [SDA] - Set Computer Name.

Use the drop-down menu to choose the naming method. Then check that the full command line updates correctly based on your selection.

Below are quick examples of what the naming methods can do.

• Keep current computer name: Leaves the existing name unchanged.
• Prompt for a name: Adds the /dialog switch so a prompt appears asking for the new name.
• Rename using variables: Adds the /name switch. You can combine text with variables like:
  • $Serial: Device serial number
  • $Make: Manufacturer
  • $Model: Device model
  • $Chassis: Chassis type
  • $FormFactor: D, L, or VM
  • $Asset: Asset tag
  • $OS: OS version
  • $Arch: OS architecture
  • $Mac: MAC address

 For complete details, check the Admin Guide and look for Add Naming Rule: KACE Systems Deployment Appliance Documentation.

B) As a Post-Installation Task

This method runs after Windows is deployed. The commands in the Full Command Line field will be different.

1. Go to the Library module
2. Open Post-Installation Tasks
3. Click Choose Action
4. Select Add Naming Rule

Name the task, for example: [SDA] - Set Computer Name PO.

Use the drop-down to pick the naming method. For example, select the option for using a data file.

Once selected, confirm that the Full Command Line updates accordingly.

Make sure the Reboot Required option is checked so the name is applied properly.

Keep in mind that this task must be placed before any Join Domain task in your imaging plan.

If you're still using Get/Set Computer Name tasks from SDA 7.2 or older versions, it's recommended to replace them with these new built-in options. These are officially supported and updated automatically during nightly updates.