To update BIOS firmware, generally these steps are followed:
- Identify your motherboard model and current BIOS version. This info can be found in Windows by running "msinfo32" to open System Information and noting the motherboard model and BIOS version.
- Visit your motherboard manufacturer's official support website and download the exact BIOS update file for your model. Make sure the version matches and is the latest.
- Format a USB drive to FAT32 and copy the extracted BIOS update file to the USB.
- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup by pressing a key like Del, F2, or F10 during startup.
- Use the BIOS update utility in the BIOS menu (often called EZ Flash, M-FLASH, Q-Flash, or similar) to select the BIOS update file from the USB and start the update process.
- Do not interrupt the update process; wait for it to complete and the system to reboot.
- After reboot, verify the BIOS version to confirm the update succeeded.
Alternatively, some manufacturers provide Windows-based utilities (e.g., ASUS MyASUS System Update, Dell SupportAssist, Lenovo Vantage) to update BIOS directly from the OS. Before updating, back up important data and ensure stable power supply to avoid risks from power loss during update. Only update BIOS if there's a specific fix or feature needed. This guidance covers common and safe BIOS update procedures across popular manufacturers.
