Is there any unique serial number or code for every computer device?

[kenny1999]

I mean, for example, I get two computer keyboards of exact same model, will they have the something like serial number or code that distinguishes one from another? Will it depend on the brand or will it depend on the value of the device? I did some research on Google, some suggested that cheaper device e.g. USB hubs or flash drive of less reputed brands may not contain any identifying number to distinguish one device from another. Is that true?

Another question is, if there is a unique number for each device, when they are connected and powered, will such unique number be recorded somewhere in the computer?

[Endy0816]

Normally handled via Mac addresses for device communication purposes.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/MAC_address

 

[kenny1999]

On 6/27/2024 at 1:18 PM, Endy0816 said:

Normally handled via Mac addresses for device communication purposes.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/MAC_address

 

Sorry, I don't understand.

I mean, for example, there are two devices which are of the same model and brand, and I don't find any printed serial code, for example, two USB flash sticks which are of the same capacity and model, could there be anything inside the devices which make them different? When they are connected to a computer, is there any different value or parameter sent to or logged in the computer from two devices?

 

[Endy0816]

5 hours ago, kenny1999 said:

Sorry, I don't understand.

I mean, for example, there are two devices which are of the same model and brand, and I don't find any printed serial code, for example, two USB flash sticks which are of the same capacity and model, could there be anything inside the devices which make them different? When they are connected to a computer, is there any different value or parameter sent to or logged in the computer from two devices?

 

Different parameters are sent to the computer. It'll also be in a different physical port.

[Sensei]

7 hours ago, kenny1999 said:

I mean, for example, there are two devices which are of the same model and brand, and I don't find any printed serial code, for example, two USB flash sticks which are of the same capacity and model, could there be anything inside the devices which make them different? When they are connected to a computer, is there any different value or parameter sent to or logged in the computer from two devices?

Yes. Obviously. If you run Linux live, you can see their UUID in, for example, the /media/$USER/.. folder. or in GParted..

Windows even stores all the UUIDs of the flash drives ever connected to the computer in the registry..
 

Edited July 16 by Sensei