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Step 1
Check you basic system information. The system information window will often list some helpful information about the computer's operating system and motherboard. To access this window, click "Start," then right-click "My Computer," and select "Properties."
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Step 2
Download and run a hardware diagnostic program. Since it is so useful to know exactly what hardware components are in one's computer, several free diagnostic tools are available online which can quickly find detailed information about a motherboard, RAM and other devices. CPU-Z is an especially useful program for identifying a motherboard, since it can find information such as manufacturer, model number, chipset, and BIOS version. (See resource 1 for a download link)
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Step 3
Open the computer's case and physically identify the motherboard. While it may be easiest to identify a motherboard with software, it also usually possible to identify them by reading tags, labels and other identifying information printed directly on the motherboard itself. Begin by turning off the computer and using a screwdriver to remove the left side cover of the case. Once the case is open, search the motherboard (the largest circuit board) for labels which indicate the manufacturer and model number. Each motherboard is constructed somewhat differently, so there is no set location to find identifying information, and some boards may not have much useful information printed on them. The most common place to find relevant labels on MSI boards is in the middle of the motherboard near the CPU and RAM slots.
