5 methods to Find Computer Serial Numbers in Windows

When you’re gearing up to update your BIOS or download driver software, having your computer’s serial number at hand is essential. Below, you’ll find a guide on how to uncover the serial number for your Windows computer.

Identifying the Serial Number on a Windows Computer

Typically, a Windows computer’s serial number is found on a sticker placed on the underside of laptops or on the rear of desktop units. However, if the sticker has worn out and the serial number is unreadable, you might face difficulty using traditional methods like checking through the Settings or the System Information Screen to locate it.

To assist you, we’ve outlined several alternative approaches to finding your computer’s serial number.

Method 1: Using the Command Prompt

To find your computer’s serial number via the Command Prompt, follow these instructions:

• Press the Start button, enter “CMD” in the search bar, right-click on Command Prompt from the results, and choose the “Run as Administrator” option.

• In the Command Prompt window, type wmic bios get serialnumber and hit enter.

• The command will display your computer’s serial number beneath the “SerialNumber” tag in the Command Prompt window.

If the WMIC command doesn’t show your computer’s serial number, it’s likely because the manufacturer hasn’t stored the serial number in the BIOS/UEFI Firmware. In this case, explore the additional methods below.

Method 2: Inspect the Packaging Box

Often, the box that your laptop or desktop came in will have a sticker with the serial number. For online purchases, the serial number might also be found on the email receipt.

Method 3: Registration and Warranty Documents

If you’ve registered your computer or have a warranty, the serial number should be detailed on the registration document or warranty certificate.

Method 4: Inside the Battery Compartment and Computer Case

For laptops with a removable battery, check inside the battery compartment for a sticker with the serial number. Desktop users might find the serial number on a sticker inside the computer case.

Method 5: Microsoft Serial Number on Surface Devices

Surface device owners can find their 12-digit Microsoft Serial Number, typically only containing numbers, in several places:

• On the device’s original packaging.
• Using the Surface App: Open the app, click on the Feedback button, and the next screen will display the Microsoft Serial Number.
• Look for the serial number on the body sticker of the Surface device. If it’s not visible on the sides or bottom, inspect the bottom edge of the Surface clipboard or the base of the kickstand on Surface Pro models.

By following these methods, you should be able to locate the serial number of your Windows computer with ease, even if traditional approaches don’t pan out.

In conclusion

Locating the serial number of your computer is a crucial step for tasks such as upgrading BIOS, downloading driver software, or for warranty and support purposes. Despite potential challenges like faded stickers, there are multiple methods to retrieve this number, ranging from using the Command Prompt in Windows, checking the product box or email receipts, to examining registration and warranty documents. For Microsoft Surface owners, the Surface App provides an additional means to find the serial number. These varied approaches ensure that users have accessible options to find their computer’s serial number, maintain the device’s security, and receive the necessary support without undue hassle.

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