How to Find Serial Number on Windows 10 Command Prompt: A Step-by-Step Guide - Support Your Tech (2024)

Finding the serial number of a Windows 10 PC using the command prompt is a quick and straightforward process. By following a few simple steps, you can retrieve this important piece of information in a matter of minutes. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can locate your serial number with ease.

How to Find Serial Number on Windows 10 Command Prompt

In this section, you’ll learn how to use the command prompt to find your Windows 10 PC’s serial number. The following steps will guide you through each part of the process, making sure you understand what to do and why it’s important.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt

To start, you need to access the Command Prompt.

Press the Windows key on your keyboard, type "cmd" into the search bar, and press Enter.

When you do this, the command prompt should open, showing a black window with white text. This is where you’ll enter the command to find your serial number.

Step 2: Run the Serial Number Command

Next, you need to input the specific command to retrieve the serial number.

Type in "wmic bios get serialnumber" and press Enter.

This command tells the system to fetch and display the BIOS serial number, which is essentially your computer’s serial number. It’s a unique identifier tied to your hardware.

Step 3: View the Serial Number

Finally, look for the output that appears just below the command you entered.

The serial number will be displayed on the next line under "SerialNumber."

This number is unique to your computer and can be useful for warranty claims, tech support, or inventory purposes. Make sure to jot it down or take a screenshot for your records.

After you complete these steps, you’ll have your PC’s serial number displayed right in front of you. This information is crucial for various administrative and support-related tasks.

Tips for Finding Serial Number on Windows 10 Command Prompt

• Always run Command Prompt as an administrator if you encounter any issues.
• If the serial number doesn’t appear, it could be due to your PC manufacturer not embedding this information.
• Double-check your spelling when typing the command to avoid errors.
• Keep your serial number in a safe place; it’s vital for tech support and warranty services.
• You can also use the PowerShell command "Get-WmiObject win32_bios | Select-Object SerialNumber" as an alternative method.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the command prompt shows "To be filled by O.E.M." instead of a serial number?

This means the manufacturer did not embed the serial number in the BIOS. You might need to check the hardware itself or contact the manufacturer.

Can I find the serial number without using the command prompt?

Yes, you can often find the serial number on a sticker on the bottom or back of your computer, or in the BIOS/UEFI settings.

Is the serial number the same as the product key?

No, the serial number is a unique identifier for your hardware, while the product key is a code used to activate Windows.

Do I need admin rights to get the serial number from the command prompt?

Generally, no. However, if you encounter access issues, try running the Command Prompt as an administrator.

Can I use third-party software to find the serial number?

Yes, several third-party software tools can display your computer’s serial number, but using the built-in command prompt is quick and reliable.

Summary

1. Open Command Prompt
2. Run the Serial Number Command
3. View the Serial Number

Conclusion

Finding the serial number on Windows 10 using the command prompt is a simple yet powerful trick. With just a few keystrokes, you can unlock a treasure trove of information about your computer. Whether you need this number for warranty claims, tech support, or simply for your records, knowing how to locate it quickly is a valuable skill.

Remember, technology is like an iceberg—the more you know, the less intimidating it becomes. So, don’t hesitate to explore and learn more tricks to make your digital life easier. If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out other articles for more tips and tricks.

Happy computing!

Matt Jacobs

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.

His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.