Your laptop’s serial number is a unique identifier that helps with warranty claims, technical support, and even theft recovery. But where exactly can you find it? Whether you’re troubleshooting, selling your device, or registering it, knowing how to locate this crucial number is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through multiple methods to find your laptop’s serial number on Windows, macOS, and even Linux. Let’s dive in!
Why Is Your Laptop’s Serial Number Important?
Before we get into the steps, let’s understand why the serial number matters:
- Warranty Claims – Manufacturers require the serial number to verify your device’s warranty status.
- Technical Support – Helps support teams identify your exact model for troubleshooting.
- Theft Recovery – Useful for reporting a stolen laptop to authorities or tracking services.
- Software Licenses – Some programs tie licenses to your device’s serial number.
Now, let’s find that number!
Method 1: Check the Physical Laptop (Easiest Way)
Most laptops have the serial number printed on a sticker somewhere on the device. Here’s where to look:
For Windows Laptops (Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, etc.)
- Bottom of the laptop – Flip it over and check for a label.
- Under the battery – If your laptop has a removable battery, the serial number may be underneath.
- Inside the battery compartment – Some models hide it there.
For MacBooks (Apple Laptops)
- On the underside – Older MacBooks display it near the regulatory markings.
- Inside the Apple menu – Newer Macs store it digitally (we’ll cover this next).
Pro Tip: If the sticker is worn out, try using a flashlight to read it clearly.
Method 2: Find the Serial Number in Windows
If the sticker is missing or unreadable, use these built-in Windows methods:
Using Command Prompt (Fastest Method)
- Press Windows + R, type
cmd
, and hit Enter. - In the Command Prompt, type:Copywmic bios get serialnumber
- Press Enter—your serial number will appear.
Via System Information
- Press Windows + R, type
msinfo32
, and hit Enter. - Look for “System Manufacturer” and “System Model”—the serial number should be listed as “System Serial Number.”
Check in BIOS/UEFI
- Restart your laptop and press F2, F12, DEL, or ESC (varies by brand) to enter BIOS.
- Navigate to the Main or System Info tab—the serial number is usually displayed there.
Method 3: Find the Serial Number on a MacBook
Apple makes it easy to find your Mac’s serial number digitally:
Option 1: Using “About This Mac”
- Click the Apple logo () in the top-left corner.
- Select “About This Mac.”
- The serial number will be displayed under the Overview tab.
Option 2: Via Terminal (For Advanced Users)
- Open Terminal (Finder > Applications > Utilities).
- Type:Copysystem_profiler SPHardwareDataType | grep “Serial Number”
- Press Enter—your serial number will appear.
Method 4: Find the Serial Number on Linux
Linux users can retrieve their laptop’s serial number via terminal:
- Open the Terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T).
- Type:Copysudo dmidecode -s system-serial-number
- Enter your password if prompted—the serial number will display.
Note: Some Linux distributions may require installing dmidecode
first (sudo apt install dmidecode
for Debian/Ubuntu).
What If You Can’t Find the Serial Number?
If none of these methods work, try:
- Checking the original box – The serial number is often printed on the packaging.
- Looking in your purchase receipt – Retailers sometimes include it in invoices.
- Contacting the manufacturer – Provide your proof of purchase, and they can help locate it.
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Final Thoughts
Finding your laptop’s serial number is quick and easy once you know where to look. Whether you check the physical label, use system commands, or dig into BIOS, you now have multiple ways to retrieve this crucial detail.
