How to check computer serial number
Serial numbers are important identifiers when it comes to computer maintenance, warranty, or software registration. This article will introduce in detail how to query the serial numbers of computers with different operating systems and brands, and provide structured data for reference.
1. How to query serial number on Windows system
Windows system provides multiple ways to query serial numbers. The following are common methods:
| Query method | Operation steps | Applicable situations |
|---|---|---|
| command prompt | 1. Press Win+R to open the run window 2. Enter "cmd" and press Enter 3. Enter "wmic bios get serialnumber" | All Windows computers |
| System information | 1. Press Win+R to open the run window 2. Enter "msinfo32" and press Enter 3. Check the "System Serial Number" in "System Summary" | Windows 7/10/11 |
| PowerShell | 1. Right-click the start menu and select PowerShell 2. Enter "Get-WmiObject Win32_BIOS | Select-Object SerialNumber" | Windows 8/10/11 |
2. How to check the serial number of Mac computer
The serial number query for Apple computers is simpler:
| Query method | Operation steps |
|---|---|
| About this machine | 1. Click the Apple icon in the upper left corner 2. Select "About This Mac" 3. View the serial number on the Overview tab |
| system report | 1. Click "System Report" in the "About This Mac" window 2. View the serial number in the hardware overview |
| Terminal commands | 1. Open the terminal 2. Enter "system_profiler SPHardwareDataType | grep Serial" |
3. Location of serial numbers of mainstream brands of computers
Serial numbers for different brands of computers can also often be found at:
| Brand | common locations | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Lenovo | 1. Inside the battery compartment 2. Label on the bottom of the fuselage 3. BIOS interface | Some models require the battery to be removed |
| Dell | 1. Service Tag 2. Express Service Code 3. "SupportAssist" in system settings | 7-digit alphanumeric combination |
| HP | 1. Product Label 2. "Main" menu in BIOS 3. Warranty label | May start with "CN" or "SN" |
| ASUS | 1. Product stickers 2. Box label 3. BIOS information interface | 15-digit alphanumeric combination |
4. Frequently Asked Questions about Serial Number Inquiry
1.Why can't I find the serial number in the command prompt?
It may be that the OEM manufacturer did not write the serial number into the BIOS. It is recommended to try other methods or check the body label.
2.What is the difference between serial number and product ID?
The serial number is the unique identifier of the hardware, and the product ID is the software activation identifier. They are different.
3.What should I do if I can’t find the serial number on a second-hand computer?
You can contact the original manufacturer to check with other information (such as proof of purchase), or check whether the label has been removed.
4.How to check the serial number of a virtual machine?
The virtual machine serial number is usually generated by the virtualization software and can be viewed in the virtual machine settings or management interface.
5. Security precautions for serial numbers
1. Serial numbers are sensitive information and should not be shared publicly.
2. When making warranty inquiries, you only need to provide the serial number and no other personal information.
3. When taking photos to record the serial number, be careful not to expose other private information.
4. Before selling your old computer, it is recommended to clear all personal data but keep the serial number tag.
With the above methods, you can easily find your computer’s serial number. If you still encounter difficulties, it is recommended to contact the device manufacturer's customer service support for professional help.
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