Knowing your computer’s serial number is often necessary for warranty claims, technical support, device registration, or insurance purposes. Every desktop, laptop, and tablet has a unique serial number (also called a service tag, asset tag, or device ID depending on the manufacturer) that helps identify the device. If you are using Windows 11, there are multiple ways to locate this serial number, whether your device is made by Dell, HP, Lenovo, Asus, Acer, or any other brand.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore step-by-step methods to find your Windows 11 computer’s serial number using Settings, Command Prompt, PowerShell, BIOS, and physical labels. We’ll also discuss why it’s important, when you may need it, and tips on storing your serial number safely.
Why Do You Need to Know Your Computer’s Serial Number?
Your computer’s serial number serves as its unique fingerprint. Here’s why it’s important:
- Warranty claims – When you contact the manufacturer, they will often ask for the serial number to check your warranty status.
- Tech support – Helps customer support quickly identify your device model, build, and configuration.
- Theft recovery – If your computer is lost or stolen, the serial number can be used in police reports or insurance claims.
- Software licensing – Some companies tie software licenses to a machine’s serial number.
- Inventory management – IT departments use serial numbers to track devices.
Knowing how to quickly find your serial number on Windows 11 can save you time and hassle.
Method 1: Check Serial Number in Windows Settings
Windows 11’s Settings app provides system information, including the serial number on many devices.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > About.
- Under Device Specifications, look for the Serial number field.
If your device manufacturer provides the serial number to Windows, it will appear here.
Note: On some custom-built PCs or self-assembled desktops, the serial number may not appear in Settings because the motherboard manufacturer didn’t embed it.
Method 2: Using Command Prompt
The Command Prompt (CMD) is one of the easiest ways to retrieve the serial number.
Steps:
- Press Windows + S and type cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
- In the window, type:
wmic bios get serialnumber - Press Enter.
The system will display your computer’s serial number.
Example Output:
SerialNumber
ABC123XYZ
If it shows “To be filled by O.E.M.”, it means the manufacturer didn’t set a serial number in BIOS. This is common with custom PCs.
Method 3: Using Windows PowerShell
PowerShell is another built-in tool that can reveal your serial number.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
- Type the following command:
Get-WmiObject win32_bios | select SerialNumber - Press Enter.
You will see the serial number displayed.
Example Output:
SerialNumber
ABC123XYZ
This method is especially useful if you are managing multiple devices and want to automate the process.
Method 4: Check Serial Number from BIOS/UEFI Firmware
The BIOS/UEFI settings store hardware-level information, including the serial number.
Steps:
- Restart your computer.
- Press the BIOS key during boot (usually F2, F10, Del, or Esc, depending on the manufacturer).
- In BIOS, navigate to System Information or Main tab.
- Look for Serial Number or Service Tag.
This is reliable because it fetches data directly from the hardware.
Method 5: Physical Label on the Device
If you cannot access the OS, you can still find the serial number printed on the device.
- Laptops – Usually on the bottom panel, under the battery (if removable), or on the side.
- Desktops – On the back or side panel of the CPU tower.
- Tablets – On the back cover or beneath a SIM card tray.
- Custom PCs – Look for a serial number on the motherboard itself.
Example labels may be marked as:
- S/N
- Serial Number
- Service Tag (Dell)
- Serial ID
Method 6: Using Manufacturer Support Software
Many brands provide their own support tools that can show the serial number.
- Dell → Dell SupportAssist
- HP → HP Support Assistant
- Lenovo → Lenovo Vantage
- Asus → MyAsus
- Acer → Acer Care Center
Simply open the tool, and you’ll find the serial number displayed under System Information.
Method 7: Using Windows System Information Tool
The System Information app in Windows gives details about your computer.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R.
- Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
- In the window, look under System Summary.
On many devices, you will see the System SKU and sometimes the Serial Number.
Method 8: Using Third-Party Tools
If Windows doesn’t show the serial number, you can use free third-party utilities like:
- CPU-Z
- Belarc Advisor
- Speccy
These tools provide detailed hardware information, including motherboard serial numbers.
What If the Serial Number Doesn’t Show?
Sometimes, especially with custom-built PCs, you may encounter messages like:
- “To be filled by O.E.M.”
- “Unavailable”
- “Not Specified”
This happens because the manufacturer didn’t program a serial number into BIOS.
In such cases:
- Check physical labels on the case or motherboard.
- Use purchase invoices for warranty claims.
- If self-built, track components individually using their part numbers.
How to Store Your Serial Number Safely
Since your serial number is important, it’s a good idea to keep it recorded securely.
- Write it down on a paper and store it with your computer documents.
- Take a screenshot of the serial number display.
- Save in a password manager for secure access.
- Store in cloud notes (OneNote, Google Keep, or Evernote).
This way, you won’t have to search for it each time you need it.
Common Uses of Serial Numbers in Windows 11
- Warranty check – Go to your manufacturer’s warranty check webpage and enter the serial number.
- Driver downloads – Dell, HP, and Lenovo often require serial numbers to suggest compatible drivers.
- Insurance claims – Insurers use the serial number to verify ownership.
- Tracking IT assets – Companies log devices using serial numbers for security and auditing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I find the serial number without turning on my PC?
Yes. Check the physical label on your laptop/desktop or look inside the battery compartment.
2. Is the serial number the same as the product key?
No. The serial number identifies the hardware, while the Windows product key activates your OS.
3. Can I change my computer’s serial number?
Technically, yes, using BIOS editing tools, but it’s not recommended since it can cause warranty and identification issues.
4. How do I check the serial number remotely?
You can run PowerShell or CMD commands remotely through Windows Remote Management (WinRM) if you have admin rights.
Final Thoughts
Finding your computer’s serial number on Windows 11 is simple once you know where to look. Whether you use Settings, Command Prompt, PowerShell, BIOS, or physical labels, you have multiple ways to retrieve it. This number plays a crucial role in warranty claims, tech support, and asset management, so it’s worth storing it safely.
If you’re using a brand-name laptop or desktop, the Command Prompt and Settings methods are the fastest. For custom PCs, you may need to check the physical motherboard or system invoices.
By following the methods in this guide, you’ll never be stuck wondering how to find your computer’s serial number again.
