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| CMD Command for Serial Number |
Learn the exact CMD command for serial number on Windows, including laptops, PCs, drives, BIOS, and troubleshooting tips with verified methods.
If you’ve ever needed your computer’s serial number for warranty claims, asset tracking, or technical support, Command Prompt offers one of the fastest solutions. Instead of opening your device or navigating complex menus, a simple CMD command for serial number can instantly display the information you need.
This guide explains all verified Command Prompt methods to find serial numbers on Windows devices, written for beginners and advanced users alike.
Search Intent Explained
The intent behind cmd command for serial number is informational. Users want a direct, accurate command that works on Windows systems, along with context, alternatives, and troubleshooting steps if the command fails.
This article fully satisfies that intent.
What Is a Serial Number and Why It Matters
A serial number is a unique identifier assigned by the manufacturer to a hardware device. Unlike model numbers, serial numbers are unique per unit.
Common reasons you may need a serial number
- Warranty verification
- Device registration
- Insurance claims
- Company asset management
- Remote IT support
- Theft reporting
Because of its importance, Windows provides built-in tools like Command Prompt to retrieve it securely.
What Is CMD (Command Prompt)?
Command Prompt (CMD) is a built-in Windows command-line interface that allows users to execute system-level commands.
Microsoft documents Command Prompt as a core administrative utility for system diagnostics and hardware queries on Windows, including via Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI).
The Primary CMD Command for Serial Number (Windows)
Official and most reliable command
The most commonly used and verified CMD command for serial number is:
wmic bios get serialnumber
How to run it step by step
- Press Windows + R
- Type
cmd - Press Enter
- In the Command Prompt window, type:
wmic bios get serialnumber
- Press Enter
Your system’s BIOS serial number will appear instantly.
This command is officially documented under Microsoft’s WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) framework.
Why This Command Works
The command queries the system BIOS using WMI, which pulls manufacturer-stored hardware identifiers directly from firmware. This ensures accuracy and reliability.
Microsoft’s official documentation confirms WMI as a trusted source for hardware-level data retrieval.
CMD Command for Serial Number on Laptops vs Desktops
The same command works for both laptops and desktops, but results depend on the manufacturer.
Possible outputs
- A valid serial number (ideal)
To be filled by O.E.M.(manufacturer didn’t embed it)- Blank output (rare, usually custom-built PCs)
Major manufacturers like HP, Dell, Lenovo, and ASUS almost always store serial numbers correctly.
CMD Command to Get System UUID (Alternative Identifier)
If the serial number is missing, the system UUID is a strong alternative.
wmic csproduct get uuid
When to use this
- Serial number not available
- Corporate asset tracking
- Device identification in enterprise systems
UUIDs are unique and hardware-bound, making them reliable for identification.
CMD Command for Manufacturer and Model (Helpful Context)
Sometimes support teams ask for model and vendor along with serial number.
wmic csproduct get name, vendor, identifyingnumber
This provides:
- Device model
- Manufacturer
- Identifying number (often the serial).
CMD Command for Hard Drive Serial Number
If you specifically need the hard disk or SSD serial number:
wmic diskdrive get model, serialnumber
Use cases
- Drive warranty claims
- Data recovery documentation
- Hardware audits
Note that this is different from the system (BIOS) serial number.
CMD Command for Windows Product ID (Not Hardware Serial)
Many users confuse product IDs with serial numbers.
wmic os get serialnumber
This retrieves the Windows OS product ID, not the hardware serial number. It is useful for licensing but should not be used as a device identifier.
Microsoft clearly differentiates between OS product IDs and hardware serials in its Windows licensing documentation.
CMD Command for Serial Number Using PowerShell (Modern Alternative)
Although this article focuses on CMD, PowerShell is now the preferred shell in modern Windows.
Equivalent PowerShell command:
Get-CimInstance Win32_BIOS | Select-Object SerialNumber
Microsoft recommends PowerShell for advanced system queries, but CMD remains fully supported.
What to Do If CMD Serial Number Shows “To Be Filled By O.E.M.”
This is common on:
- Custom-built PCs
- Some refurbished systems
- Older motherboards
Solutions
- Check physical labels on the motherboard or case
- Use manufacturer utilities (Dell SupportAssist, HP Support Assistant)
- Check BIOS/UEFI manually
Manufacturer support pages often explain where to find serial numbers physically.
Security and Privacy Considerations
Serial numbers are sensitive identifiers.
Best practices
- Do not share serial numbers publicly
- Avoid sending them through unsecured channels
- Only provide them to official support or warranty services
This aligns with general cybersecurity guidance published by recognized IT security platforms.
Common Errors and How to Fix Them
Error: 'wmic' is not recognized
Cause:
- WMIC deprecated or removed in some newer Windows builds
Fix:
- Use PowerShell alternative
- Ensure Windows Management Instrumentation service is running
Microsoft has announced gradual WMIC deprecation, but it still works on most Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems.
Error: Blank output
Cause:
- Manufacturer did not embed serial in BIOS
Fix:
- Use UUID command
- Check physical labels
CMD vs GUI: Why CMD Is Better
| Method | Speed | Accuracy | Requires Internet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Command Prompt | Very fast | High | No |
| Settings app | Medium | High | No |
| Manufacturer site | Slow | High | Yes |
| Third-party tools | Varies | Uncertain | Often yes |
CMD remains one of the fastest and safest options.
Real-World Use Cases
IT administrators
- Inventory audits
- Remote troubleshooting
Students and individuals
- Laptop warranty checks
- Device resale verification
Businesses
- Asset tagging
- Compliance documentation
Before contacting support or selling your device, open Command Prompt now and run the serial number command. It takes less than 10 seconds and saves hours of frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CMD serial number always correct?
Yes, if provided by the manufacturer. It comes directly from BIOS firmware.
Can CMD change or modify serial numbers?
No. CMD can only read serial numbers, not alter them.
Does reinstalling Windows affect serial numbers?
No. Serial numbers are stored in hardware firmware, not the OS.
Optional Schema Markup (FAQ)
Adding FAQ schema to this article can help it appear as rich results on Google for common serial number questions.
Conclusion
The CMD command for serial number is one of the most efficient and reliable ways to identify your Windows device. With a single command, you can retrieve BIOS-level information that manufacturers, IT teams, and support centers trust.
Whether you’re troubleshooting, selling a laptop, or managing multiple systems, mastering this simple CMD command gives you control, clarity, and confidence.
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