Key Takeaways
- The serial number is the most important attribute for uniquely identifying a device.
- Maintaining an accurate hardware inventory is a core requirement of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
- A hardware inventory does not contain licenses; that is the role of the software inventory.
- Without ongoing maintenance, an inventory becomes outdated within a few months as staff changes.
Which data fields belong in a hardware inventory?
A hardware inventory needs a small set of reliable fields.
- Serial number and asset tag
- Device type, manufacturer, and model
- Assigned person or location
- Status: in use, in storage, in repair, retired
- Purchase date, price, and warranty expiration
How does a hardware inventory stay up to date?
A hardware inventory stays up to date when changes are recorded where they happen. Computers report their data automatically via MDM or an agent. Accessories are recorded upon goods receipt. Issuances and returns are firmly embedded into onboarding and offboarding workflows instead of being entered after the fact.
Example: Hardware Inventory in practice
Example: A trade business with 40 employees across the office and job sites maintains a hardware inventory of 52 laptops, 30 monitors, and 12 printers. Before ordering 5 new laptops, the inventory shows 3 returned, working devices in storage. Only 2 new laptops are ordered.
Hardware Inventory vs. Hardware Asset Management (HAM)
| Aspect | Hardware Inventory | Hardware Asset Management (HAM) |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Directory, database | Processes and accountability |
| Key question | Which devices exist and where are they? | What happens to the devices across their lifespan? |
| Outcome | Up-to-date list | Managed lifecycle |
The hardware inventory is the list of devices, whereas Hardware Asset Management comprises the workflows controlled using that list.
How does Sovaro help with Hardware Inventory?
Sovaro builds the hardware inventory from multiple sources: its built-in MDM for macOS, Windows, and Linux and Intune devices that automatically land in the inventory. Accessories are captured via photo or invoice. Every device is linked to a person.