If you cannot access the web interface, the information is printed directly on the device.
A pull-out service asset tag (often located on the front-right side of enterprise server chassis). 5. Serial Numbers vs. Netgate Device IDs (NDI)
Navigate to the widget on the main dashboard page. Look for the Netgate Device ID or Serial Number field.
If the pfSense text menu appears, type 8 to enter the . pfsense serial number
Several issues related to the serial number can arise in pfSense:
Netgate TAC (Technical Assistance Center) requires a valid serial number to verify your support subscription level before opening a ticket.
If you are upgrading from pfSense Community Edition (CE) to pfSense Plus, the activation portal will ask for your NDI to generate the software certificate, but customer support may still request your physical serial number to verify your underlying hardware architecture. Troubleshooting Missing Serial Numbers If you cannot access the web interface, the
Opening a commercial support ticket requires a valid Netgate hardware serial number to verify your active subscription.
The pfSense dashboard displays the serial number and Netgate Device ID prominently. While these numbers are generally not considered highly sensitive in the same class as passwords or personal data, they are system identifiers. Exposing them publicly could theoretically be used to target a specific device or glean information about your network's hardware.
Restoring a config from a different serial number requires the system_reset_uniqueid() trick mentioned above, or you will face licensing conflicts. Serial Numbers vs
Re-enter the serial number in your BIOS (if you know it) or accept that pfSense will generate a software-based UID instead.
The quickest way is to log into your pfSense web interface.
Look at the widget (usually located in the top-left column). Locate the line labeled Netgate Device ID or Serial Number .
⚠️ : Do not change the serial number on Netgate hardware. It voids support and ACB functionality.