# How to Change Your Left 4 Dead Server Name (/docs/left-4-dead/change-server-name)



import { Step, Steps } from 'fumadocs-ui/components/steps';

The server name (hostname) is what players see when browsing for Left 4 Dead servers in the Steam server browser or in-game. A clear, descriptive name helps players find your server and sets expectations before they join.

Changing Your Server Name [#changing-your-server-name]

<div className="fd-steps">
  <div className="fd-step">
    Open the XGamingServer panel [#1-open-the-xgamingserver-panel]

    Log in to the [XGamingServer panel](https://panel.xgamingserver.com) and stop your Left 4 Dead server.
  </div>

  <div className="fd-step">
    Open server.cfg [#2-open-servercfg]

    In the sidebar, go to `Files` and navigate to `left4dead` > `cfg`. Open `server.cfg`.
  </div>

  <div className="fd-step">
    Set the hostname [#3-set-the-hostname]

    Add or update the `hostname` line:

    ```
    hostname "My Left 4 Dead Server"
    ```

    Make sure the name is enclosed in double quotes, especially if it contains spaces or special characters.
  </div>

  <div className="fd-step">
    Save and restart [#4-save-and-restart]

    Click **Save** and start your server.

    The new name will appear in the Steam server browser and in-game server list once the server finishes starting.
  </div>
</div>

Changing the Name via RCON [#changing-the-name-via-rcon]

If you have [RCON access](/docs/left-4-dead/rcon), you can change the hostname without restarting:

<div className="fd-steps">
  <div className="fd-step">
    Open the console [#1-open-the-console]

    Press **\~** to open the developer console while connected to your server.
  </div>

  <div className="fd-step">
    Run the command [#2-run-the-command]

    ```
    rcon hostname "New Server Name"
    ```

    > 📝 **Note:** Hostname changes made via RCON are temporary — they'll revert to whatever is in `server.cfg` on the next map change or server restart. For permanent changes, always update `server.cfg`.
  </div>
</div>

Server Naming Tips [#server-naming-tips]

A well-named server attracts the right players:

* **Include the game mode** — `Campaign`, `Versus`, or `Survival` tells players what to expect
* **Add your region** — `[US East]` or `[EU]` helps players find low-ping servers
* **Mention rules** — `No Griefing` or `Friendly Fire On` sets expectations
* **Include your community name** — If you run a group, add it for recognition

**Example names:**

* `[US East] Campaign | No Mercy | All Welcome`
* `[EU] Versus Mode | Competitive | No Griefers`
* `[AU] Survival | Dead Air | XGaming Community`

Character Limits [#character-limits]

Source engine hostnames support up to 64 characters. Names longer than this will be truncated in the server browser. Keep your name concise and informative.

> 💡 **Tip:** Your server name is separate from the [RCON password](/docs/left-4-dead/rcon) and [server password](/docs/left-4-dead/set-a-password). Changing the name doesn't affect who can join or manage the server.

If you get stuck at any time, you can join our [Discord](https://discord.xgamingserver.com/).