BIOS update

Keep your BIOS up to date for compatibility, performance, and security. Update BIOS first—before XMP/DOCP and Resizable BAR—because updates can reset those settings.

Important Warning

Incorrect BIOS updates can permanently damage your motherboard. Only update if necessary, follow manufacturer instructions exactly, and never interrupt the update process.

Before you begin

Check current BIOS version

  1. Press Win + R
  2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter
  3. Look for BIOS Version/Date in the System Information window

Identify your motherboard

You need to know your exact motherboard model:

  • Check System Information (as above) - Look for BaseBoard Manufacturer and BaseBoard Product
  • Check physical motherboard - Model number is usually printed on the board
  • Use system detection tools - Many manufacturer websites have auto-detection tools

Update process

Step 1: Download BIOS update

  1. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s support website:
  2. Enter your motherboard model
  3. Go to Downloads or BIOS section
  4. Download the latest BIOS file (usually a .zip or .exe file)

Info

Read the BIOS update notes. Update only if the new version fixes issues you have or adds features you need.

Step 2: Prepare for update

  1. Backup current BIOS - Some manufacturers provide backup tools
  2. Stable power - Use a UPS if possible, or confirm your laptop is fully charged and plugged in
  3. Close all applications - Close unnecessary programs
  4. Disable antivirus temporarily - May interfere with BIOS update

Step 3: Update BIOS

Method 1: Windows-based update (easiest)

Many manufacturers provide Windows utilities:

  1. Extract the downloaded BIOS file
  2. Run the BIOS update utility (e.g., Setup.exe or manufacturer-specific tool)
  3. Follow on-screen instructions
  4. Don’t power off or restart during the update
  5. System will restart automatically when complete

Method 2: BIOS flash utility

  1. Extract the BIOS file to a USB drive (FAT32 formatted)
  2. Restart and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually Del or F2 during boot)
  3. Use the BIOS flash utility (varies by manufacturer)
  4. Select the BIOS file from USB
  5. Start the update process
  6. Do not power off or restart during the update

Critical Warning

NEVER interrupt a BIOS update. The system will restart automatically when complete. Interrupting can brick your motherboard.

After update

  1. BIOS will restart automatically
  2. Enter BIOS/UEFI and verify the new version
  3. Load optimized defaults or reconfigure settings
  4. Save and exit
  5. Boot into Windows and verify everything works

Troubleshooting

Update failed

If the update process was interrupted:

  • Try recovery methods - Many motherboards have BIOS recovery features
  • Contact manufacturer support - They may provide recovery instructions
  • Professional repair - May be required if recovery fails

System won’t boot after update

  1. Clear CMOS - Remove CMOS battery or use jumper (check manual)
  2. Reset BIOS settings - Load default/optimized settings
  3. Check all connections - Confirm RAM, CPU, and power cables are secure

Manufacturer resources

ASUS Support

Find BIOS updates and documentation for ASUS motherboards

MSI Support

MSI motherboard BIOS updates and support

Gigabyte Support

Gigabyte motherboard support and BIOS downloads

ASRock Support

ASRock motherboard BIOS and driver downloads

Best practices

  • Update only when necessary – Don’t update just because a new version exists
  • Read release notes - Understand what the update fixes or adds
  • Use stable power - Avoid power loss during the update
  • Follow manufacturer instructions - Each manufacturer has specific procedures
  • Keep a backup - Some tools let you backup current BIOS before updating

Next steps

After updating your BIOS: