How to Use the Windows vol Command | Check Drive Volume Labels and Serial Numbers

October 22, 2024

What is the `vol` Command?

The vol command in Windows is used to display the volume label and serial number of a specific drive through the Command Prompt. The volume label is the name assigned to the disk, while the serial number is a unique identifier for each disk. Using this command allows for quick identification and verification of disk information.

Main Uses

Checking disk information: Easily view the volume label and serial number of any disk for identification and management purposes.
Automating disk information retrieval in scripts: Automate the retrieval of drive information within scripts for efficient disk management.
Data management and troubleshooting: Identify specific disks by their serial numbers during troubleshooting or data management tasks.

How to Use the `vol` Command

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The vol command allows users to display the volume label and serial number of a specified drive.

Basic Syntax

vol [<drive>:]

<drive>:: Specifies the drive whose volume label and serial number you want to check. If no drive is specified, the current drive is used by default.

Examples

Display the volume label and serial number of the C: drive

vol C:

This command displays the volume label and serial number for the C: drive, which is typically the system’s main drive.

Display the volume label and serial number of the D: drive

vol D:

Use this command to display the volume label and serial number for the D: drive, which may be an external or secondary disk.

Display the volume label and serial number of the current drive

vol

If you don’t specify a drive, this command shows the volume label and serial number for the drive associated with the current working directory.

Important Considerations When Using the `vol` Command

Read-only command: The vol command only displays the volume label and serial number. It does not allow any changes to the drive.
Specifying the correct drive: Be sure to specify the correct drive letter (e.g., C:, D:) to get the appropriate disk information, especially if multiple drives are connected.

Conclusion

The vol command is a simple yet useful tool for quickly checking the volume label and serial number of drives in Windows. It’s handy for disk management and troubleshooting, allowing users to retrieve accurate disk information easily. You can also integrate this command into scripts for automated drive identification.