How to Find Device ID in Windows 10
Finding the Device ID in Windows 10 is a simple process. You’ll be navigating through the Device Manager to locate the unique identifier for your hardware. By following these steps, you can retrieve the Device ID in just a few minutes.
How to Find Device ID in Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through how to find the Device ID in your Windows 10 system. This ID is crucial for troubleshooting, updating drivers, or seeking technical support.
Step 1: Open the Device Manager
Hit the Start button and start typing "Device Manager." Click on the Device Manager option that appears.
The Device Manager window lists all your hardware components. It’s the central hub for managing your computer’s devices.
Step 2: Expand the Device Category
Look for the category of the device you’re interested in. Click the arrow next to it to expand the list.
Each category includes all devices of that type. For example, expand "Network Adapters" to see all your networking hardware.
Step 3: Right-click on the Device
Find the specific device you’re interested in. Right-click on it and select "Properties."
The Properties option opens a new window that details information about the device, including its ID.
Step 4: Navigate to the Details Tab
In the Properties window, click on the "Details" tab.
The Details tab contains a dropdown menu with various properties. This is where you’ll find the Device ID.
Step 5: Select Hardware Ids from the Dropdown
From the dropdown list under the Details tab, select "Hardware Ids."
Once selected, you will see multiple strings of text. These are the Device IDs you’re looking for.
After completing these steps, you will have the Device ID for your hardware. This information is vital for various purposes, such as driver updates or technical support.
Tips for Finding Device ID in Windows 10
- Use the search bar in the Start menu for quick access to Device Manager.
- Make sure to expand the correct category to find your specific device.
- Write down the Device ID or take a screenshot for future reference.
- If multiple devices are listed, match the Device ID with the hardware specifications.
- Use the Device ID to search for specific drivers or troubleshooting guides online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Device ID?
A Device ID is a unique identifier assigned to a hardware component in your computer. It helps in identifying and managing the device.
Why do I need the Device ID?
Knowing your Device ID is essential for troubleshooting, updating drivers, and seeking support for hardware issues.
Can I find the Device ID using Command Prompt?
Yes, you can. Open Command Prompt, type wmic path win32_PnPEntity get DeviceID, and press Enter.
What if my device isn’t listed in Device Manager?
Try refreshing the Device Manager or restarting your computer. Ensure the device is properly connected and installed.
Is the Device ID the same as the serial number?
No, the Device ID is a software identifier while the serial number is a hardware identifier.
Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand the device category.
- Right-click on the device.
- Navigate to the Details tab.
- Select Hardware Ids from the dropdown.
Conclusion
Finding the Device ID in Windows 10 is fairly straightforward but highly beneficial. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just someone trying to solve a computer issue, knowing how to locate this ID can save you a lot of time and trouble. From updating drivers to seeking technical support, having the Device ID at your fingertips is invaluable.
For those who frequently tinker with their hardware or software, keeping a list of Device IDs handy can be a life-saver. It’s like having a technical passport for each component of your computer. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring more tutorials on managing your Windows 10 system.
In essence, mastering these small tasks enhances your overall tech skill set, making you more proficient and confident in managing your own devices. So, go ahead and give it a try—knowing how to find the Device ID can make a big difference in maintaining the health and performance of your computer.
Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.
He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.