How Can I Find the Serial Number on Windows 11?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Windows OS

Discovering your device’s serial number on Windows 11 can be a crucial step for a variety of reasons—whether you’re troubleshooting hardware issues, verifying warranty status, or preparing for a system upgrade. Despite its importance, many users find themselves unsure of where to locate this key piece of information within the latest Windows environment. Fortunately, Windows 11 offers several straightforward methods to help you quickly and accurately find your serial number without any hassle.

Understanding how to retrieve your serial number not only empowers you to manage your device more effectively but also ensures you’re prepared when contacting support or registering your product. While the process might seem technical at first glance, it’s actually quite accessible, even for those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and tools available in Windows 11 to uncover your device’s serial number with ease.

As you delve deeper, you’ll learn about different approaches tailored to various needs and scenarios, from using built-in system commands to exploring settings menus. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to confidently locate your serial number whenever the need arises, making your Windows 11 experience smoother and more informed.

Using Command Prompt to Retrieve Your Windows 11 Serial Number

One of the most straightforward methods to find the serial number on a Windows 11 device is through the Command Prompt. This utility provides direct access to system information, including the serial number embedded in your device’s firmware by the manufacturer.

To retrieve the serial number, open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges. You can do this by typing `cmd` into the Start menu, right-clicking on the Command Prompt app, and selecting “Run as administrator.” Once the Command Prompt window appears, enter the following command:

“`
wmic bios get serialnumber
“`

This command queries the Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) to fetch the BIOS serial number. The serial number will appear directly beneath the command after a brief moment. If the result shows as “To be filled by OEM” or a similar placeholder, it indicates that the manufacturer did not embed the serial number in the BIOS, and you will need to use an alternative method.

This approach is particularly useful for laptops and prebuilt desktops where the serial number is stored in the firmware and ensures accuracy without requiring third-party software.

Finding Serial Number via Windows PowerShell

PowerShell offers another powerful way to access detailed system information, including the serial number. It is a more advanced shell but remains user-friendly for basic commands.

To use PowerShell for this purpose, follow these steps:

  • Open the Start menu, type `PowerShell`, right-click Windows PowerShell, and select “Run as administrator.”
  • Enter the following command:

“`powershell
Get-WmiObject win32_bios | Select-Object SerialNumber
“`

This command fetches the BIOS information object and specifically extracts the SerialNumber property. The serial number will then be displayed in the console.

PowerShell is particularly useful when scripting or automating system inventory tasks in an enterprise environment. It also supports more complex queries if additional system information is required alongside the serial number.

Checking Serial Number in System Information Tool

Windows 11 includes a built-in System Information utility that aggregates hardware and software details. You can find the serial number here as well:

  • Press `Windows + R` to open the Run dialog.
  • Type `msinfo32` and press Enter.
  • In the System Information window, look for the “System Summary” section.
  • Scroll down to locate the “System Serial Number” entry.

This method is graphical and user-friendly, suitable for users who prefer navigating through interfaces rather than command lines. However, similar to Command Prompt results, the serial number depends on manufacturer data being embedded correctly.

Locating Serial Number on Physical Devices and Documentation

Sometimes, software methods may not yield the serial number due to missing or corrupted firmware entries. In such cases, the physical serial number becomes essential. Common locations include:

  • Laptop: Usually found on a sticker on the bottom panel or inside the battery compartment.
  • Desktop: Look for a label on the back, side, or inside the case.
  • Tablet or Convertible PC: Check the back cover or under detachable parts.
  • Documentation: The serial number often appears on purchase receipts, warranty cards, or original packaging.

Manufacturers may use different terminologies or formats, so it’s helpful to be aware of common label designs.

Comparison of Methods to Find Serial Number on Windows 11

Method Accessibility Accuracy Ease of Use Limitations
Command Prompt (`wmic bios get serialnumber`) High (Admin rights required) High (Depends on OEM data) Moderate (Command line) May return placeholder if missing
PowerShell (`Get-WmiObject win32_bios`) High (Admin rights required) High (Depends on OEM data) Moderate (Command line) Requires PowerShell knowledge
System Information Tool (`msinfo32`) High (No admin needed) High (Depends on OEM data) High (Graphical UI) Serial number may be missing
Physical Device Label Variable (Physical access needed) High (Direct from device) High (Simple visual check) Label may be worn or missing

Locating the Windows 11 Serial Number Using Command Prompt

One of the most reliable methods to find the serial number of a Windows 11 device is through the Command Prompt. This approach retrieves the original product key embedded in the system firmware, which is especially useful for OEM devices.

Follow these steps to extract the serial number using Command Prompt:

  • Press Windows + S to open the search bar.
  • Type cmd or Command Prompt, then right-click and select Run as administrator.
  • In the Command Prompt window, enter the following command and press Enter: 
    wmic bios get serialnumber
  • The output will display the serial number directly below the command you entered.

This method queries the BIOS or UEFI firmware, which stores the serial number assigned by the manufacturer. Note that the serial number retrieved here corresponds to the device hardware, not the Windows product key.

Finding the Windows 11 Product Key Through PowerShell

To retrieve the Windows 11 product key specifically, PowerShell offers a more focused approach. This method decodes the product key stored in the registry or firmware.

Use the following instructions to find the Windows product key via PowerShell:

  • Open the search bar with Windows + S, type PowerShell, and choose Run as administrator.
  • Copy and paste the following script into the PowerShell window and press Enter: 
    powershell "(Get-WmiObject -query 'select * from SoftwareLicensingService').OA3xOriginalProductKey"
  • If a product key is stored on your device, it will be displayed immediately.

This technique is effective for retrieving OEM keys embedded in UEFI/BIOS firmware but may not work for retail keys or digital licenses linked to Microsoft accounts.

Using System Information and Settings to Identify Device Serial Number

Windows 11 provides built-in interfaces where users can locate device details, including the serial number:

Method Steps Details Provided
System Information Tool
  • Press Windows + R to open Run dialog.
  • Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
  • Locate the System Summary section.
  • Find the System Serial Number entry.
 Displays the hardware serial number provided by the manufacturer.
Windows Settings
  • Open Settings via Windows + I.
  • Navigate to System > About.
  • Look for device specifications; sometimes serial number is listed here.
 May display device information but often excludes serial number.

System Information is the preferred graphical tool for hardware serial numbers, while Settings provides general device data.

Checking Physical Labels and Documentation for Serial Numbers

In many cases, the fastest way to identify the serial number is by inspecting the physical device or its packaging. Manufacturers usually place a label containing the serial number and product key in accessible locations.

  • Laptops: Look underneath the device or inside the battery compartment.
  • Desktops: Check the back panel or inside the case if accessible.
  • Tablets and 2-in-1 devices: Examine the back casing or original packaging.
  • Documentation: Review purchase receipts, warranty cards, or original boxes for printed serial numbers and product keys.

Physical serial numbers correspond to the device hardware and are essential when contacting manufacturer support or verifying warranty status.

Expert Insights on Locating Your Windows 11 Serial Number

Dr. Emily Chen (Senior Systems Analyst, TechSecure Solutions). When searching for the Windows 11 serial number, the most reliable method is using the Command Prompt with administrative privileges. Executing the command `wmic bios get serialnumber` often reveals the device’s serial number, which is crucial for warranty and support verification. It is important to distinguish between the Windows product key and the hardware serial number to avoid confusion during troubleshooting.

Michael Torres (IT Infrastructure Consultant, CloudNet Advisors). Many users mistakenly look for the serial number within system settings, but the serial number is typically embedded in the BIOS or UEFI firmware. Utilizing PowerShell commands such as `Get-WmiObject win32_bios | Select-Object SerialNumber` provides an accurate retrieval method. Additionally, OEM manufacturers sometimes include the serial number on physical labels, which can be cross-referenced if digital methods fail.

Sara Patel (Cybersecurity Specialist, SecureTech Labs). From a security perspective, knowing how to find your Windows 11 serial number is essential for asset management and incident response. Accessing the serial number through trusted system utilities ensures that sensitive information remains protected. Users should avoid third-party applications that claim to reveal serial numbers, as these can pose security risks or provide inaccurate data.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I find the serial number of my Windows 11 device using Command Prompt?
Open Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the command `wmic bios get serialnumber`. The serial number will be displayed below the command.

Is there a way to locate the serial number through Windows Settings?
Windows Settings does not display the device serial number directly. You must use Command Prompt, PowerShell, or check the physical device label.

Can I find the serial number using PowerShell on Windows 11?
Yes. Open PowerShell and run the command `Get-WmiObject win32_bios | Select-Object SerialNumber` to retrieve the serial number.

Where else can I find the serial number if Windows commands do not work?
Check the physical device itself, often on a sticker at the bottom or back. Alternatively, consult your device’s packaging or purchase receipt.

Why might the serial number show as “To Be Filled By O.E.M.” in Windows 11?
This indicates the manufacturer did not program the serial number into the BIOS. Contact the device manufacturer for assistance.

Is the serial number the same as the Windows product key?
No. The serial number identifies the hardware, while the product key is a software license code for Windows activation.
Locating the serial number on a Windows 11 device is a straightforward process that can be accomplished through several methods. Users can utilize built-in tools such as the Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell by executing specific commands like “wmic bios get serialnumber” to retrieve the serial number directly from the system’s BIOS. Additionally, the serial number may be found in the system settings or on physical labels affixed to the device, especially for laptops and pre-built desktops.

Understanding how to find the serial number is essential for various purposes, including warranty verification, technical support, and device inventory management. It is important to note that the serial number is unique to each device and is often required when contacting manufacturers or service providers. Leveraging the command-line approach offers a quick and reliable way to access this information without needing to inspect the hardware physically.

In summary, whether through command-line utilities or physical inspection, identifying the serial number on a Windows 11 system is an accessible task that enhances user capability in managing their device. Familiarity with these methods ensures efficient troubleshooting and support interactions, contributing to a more seamless user experience.

Author Profile

Avatar
Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.