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Streamline asset management with Serial Number QR codes on Surface

  • Article
  • Applies to: Windows 11

To improve asset management for IT departments, Microsoft is introducing Serial Number (SN) QR codes on select Surface for Business devices. This feature enables IT administrators to quickly scan a QR code to retrieve the device’s serial number—eliminating the need for manual data entry.

Devices with Serial Number QR codes

Available on all units

  • Surface Pro for Business, 11th Edition (Intel processor) – All units include the SN QR code.

Available post-launch
The following devices include SN QR codes only on units manufactured after the listed dates:

  • Surface Laptop for Business, 7th Edition (Intel processor) – Units manufactured after March 31, 2025
  • Surface Pro for Business, 11th Edition (Snapdragon processor) – Units manufactured after March 21, 2025
  • Surface Pro for Business, 10th Edition (Intel processor) – Units manufactured after March 12, 2025

Screenshot of a Surface device engraving showing the Microsoft logo, a placeholder serial number, and a QR code beneath it.

Benefits of Serial Number QR codes

  • Streamlined deployment – Accelerates inventory management and device setup.
  • Fewer manual errors – Reduces the risk of typos when entering serial numbers.
  • Faster servicing – Helps service centers process devices more efficiently.

Important considerations

  • Business devices only – SN QR codes are available only on Surface for Business SKUs. Consumer devices aren't supported.
  • Graphite models require DPM scanners – SN QR codes etched on black/graphite devices may require a Direct Part Marking (DPM) scanner for accurate reading.
  • Not retained during repair – Devices with enclosure repairs ship back without an SN QR code, as replacement enclosures (Field Replaceable Units) don't include the original QR code.

How to use Serial Number QR codes

  1. Locate the SN QR code:
    • On Surface Pro: Behind the kickstand
    • On Surface Laptop: On the bottom of the device
  2. Scan the code using a compatible QR code scanner or mobile device camera.
  3. Retrieve the serial number and input it into your asset management system.

Compatibility and scanner recommendations

To integrate SN QR codes into your workflow:

  • Test scanner compatibility – Ensure your scanner can read QR codes etched into metal. For best results, use a DPM-compatible scanner, especially for Graphite models.
  • Update asset workflows – Integrate scanning into your asset management process to reduce overhead and speed up device registration.