Where to find your PC serial number

Your PC's serial number is a unique identifier printed or etched on your computer's case, and also stored in your system information. The fastest way to find it depends on whether you can physically access your machine or need to pull it from Windows itself.

If your computer is a laptop, look on the bottom of the device — the serial number is usually printed on a sticker near the model number. For desktop computers, check the back or side of the tower case. The label typically shows the manufacturer name, model number, and a string of letters and numbers that is your serial number. Write it down or take a photo before you need it.

If you cannot see the physical label or need to verify the number your system reports, Windows stores this information where you can retrieve it without opening anything.

Key Takeaways

  • Your serial number is printed on a sticker on your computer's case and is also stored in Windows system information.
  • The System Information window in Windows shows your serial number under the label "System Serial Number" or similar, depending on your manufacturer.
  • Command Prompt and PowerShell can pull your serial number if you prefer a text-based method or need to document it quickly.
  • You will need your serial number for warranty claims, repairs, theft recovery, and some software licensing situations.

Finding the serial number through System Information

Open System Information by pressing the Windows key, typing "System Information," and pressing Enter. The window that opens shows basic details about your computer. Look for a field labeled "System Serial Number," "Serial Number," or sometimes "Service Tag" — the exact label depends on your computer's manufacturer.

If you do not see it on the first screen, scroll down to see all available fields. Some manufacturers hide it further down the list. Write down or copy the number exactly as it appears, including any hyphens or letters.

This method works on all versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11. The information displayed comes directly from your computer's firmware, so it matches what the manufacturer has on file.

Using Command Prompt or PowerShell

If you prefer typing commands, both Command Prompt and PowerShell can retrieve your serial number. Open Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key, typing "cmd," and pressing Enter. At the prompt, type the following command exactly:

wmic bios get serialnumber

Press Enter. Your serial number will appear on the next line. This command pulls the information from your computer's BIOS, which is the firmware that runs before Windows loads. The number should match what you see in System Information.

PowerShell works the same way. Press the Windows key, type "PowerShell," and press Enter. Use the same command above, and the result will display the same serial number.

Why manufacturers put serial numbers in different places

Different computer makers — Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, and others — store serial number information in slightly different locations within Windows. Dell calls it "Service Tag," HP calls it "Serial Number," and Lenovo may label it differently again. The information is the same; the label just varies by brand.

This is why checking the physical sticker on your computer is often the fastest route. The sticker shows exactly what the manufacturer considers the official serial number, and you do not have to guess which field in System Information corresponds to it.

When you need your serial number

Warranty claims are the most common reason to have your serial number on hand. When you contact the manufacturer for a repair or replacement, they will ask for it to verify that your computer is still under warranty and to pull up your purchase date and coverage details.

If your computer is stolen, police and the manufacturer can use the serial number to flag the device if someone tries to register it or claim warranty service. Insurance companies also ask for the serial number when you file a claim for a lost or damaged computer.

Some software licenses are tied to your hardware serial number, particularly for professional or enterprise software. If you reinstall Windows or move to a new computer, you may need the old serial number to prove you owned the license.

What to do if you cannot find your serial number

If the physical sticker is worn away or missing, System Information and Command Prompt are your backup sources. Both pull the number from your computer's firmware, so if one method works, the information is reliable.

If neither method shows a serial number — which is rare but can happen on very old computers or heavily modified systems — contact your computer's manufacturer directly. Provide them with your model number and any other identifying information, and they can look up your serial number in their database using your purchase receipt or proof of ownership.

Keeping your serial number safe

Store your serial number somewhere you can find it quickly. A photo of the sticker on your phone, a note in a password manager, or a document in cloud storage all work. You do not need to keep it secret the way you would a password — the serial number is not sensitive information on its own.

However, pairing your serial number with a photo of your computer and storing it securely can help you prove ownership if your device is lost or stolen. Some people also photograph the sticker before selling a used computer, as proof they no longer own it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the serial number the same as the model number?

No. The model number identifies the type of computer — for example, "Dell XPS 13" — while the serial number is unique to your individual machine. The sticker on your computer shows both, but they are different. The serial number is what you need for warranty and repair purposes.

Can I change my computer's serial number?

Changing the serial number stored in firmware is technically possible but requires specialized tools and knowledge, and doing so voids your warranty. There is no legitimate reason to change it. If you need a different serial number for a claim or repair, contact the manufacturer instead.

What if System Information shows a different serial number than the sticker?

This is unusual but can happen if the computer was refurbished or if the firmware was updated. Use the number on the physical sticker for warranty claims, since that is what the manufacturer's records are based on. If they do not match, mention both numbers when you contact support.

Do I need my serial number to reinstall Windows?

No. Reinstalling Windows does not require your serial number. However, if you are moving a Windows license from one computer to another, you may need the old computer's serial number to deactivate the license on that machine first.

Where is the serial number on a Mac or Linux computer?

This guide covers Windows PCs only. Mac computers store the serial number in System Report (found under Apple menu > About This Mac > System Report), and Linux systems vary by distribution. Check your specific operating system's documentation for the exact location.