How to Track Laptop Inventory

Managing laptop inventory is one of the most challenging tasks for any IT department. Successfully tracking assets involves more than just keeping a spreadsheet of computer hardware and software. It also involves linking that physical inventory to financial assets and understanding how those IT investments affect business operations.

The best way to track computer inventory is to physically label each one, but that can be expensive and time-consuming. An alternative is to use a computer-management solution that offers complete, fully integrated capabilities for all aspects of laptop inventory. This allows businesses to better correlate IT expenses with the core business, helping them maximize returns on their investments.

In addition to a database of computer models and specifications, a good laptop inventory management system should also help with physical asset counting and documentation. This is critical in large organizations with numerous locations or small IT departments that manage a lot of computers. Creating a labeling system that includes tamper-proof stickers is the preferred method for reducing the risk of equipment theft and lost data.

Most laptops have a sticker on the back side that contains their model number and other information. If yours doesn’t, look for a white or silver sticker on the underside of the laptop that starts with the prefix “P/N.” The numbers that follow are the model number.

Another easy way to find out your laptop’s model number is to use Windows to open the system information window. This feature can be accessed by pressing the Windows button and typing “System Information.” You should see a window displaying your computer’s basic information, including its processor model and other details. You can also access this information from the BIOS menu. If your computer has an older version of the operating system, check the date it was installed to find out your laptop’s model.

If you’re using a Dell laptop, the model name is usually printed on the screen frame, near the keyboard. Look for a caption with letters and digits; the model name usually starts with Inspiron, Latitude, Studio, or Venue. If you have a Lenovo ThinkPad laptop, the model number is also printed on the keyboard frame. You can also locate the model name by locating a sticker on the bottom of the laptop or on the battery compartment.

Many newer laptops will have the model number listed on their Control Panel settings. Locate the laptop’s Settings menu and select “System” or “About.” This should display your laptop’s model number in a few clicks.

If your laptop isn’t running a current version of the operating system, you can still find out your model number through the system information app or the command “systeminfo.” The BIOS date will also give you an approximate idea of when your laptop was made. Using these methods should allow you to create an accurate, easy-to-use laptop inventory record. If you need a more advanced approach, consider using third-party tools like CPU-Z or SiSoftware Sandra to gather detailed laptop specs and model numbers.