Buzz
The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is a critical component that contains one or more sets of instructions stored on the motherboard's firmware. It is the first software to run when you start your computer, managing essential functions such as CD drives, mice, and keyboards. This article will guide you through the proper steps to update your BIOS. While each computer may have a different BIOS manufacturer and use unique key combinations for access, the general update process remains consistent.
Steps
Identify the current BIOS version. You can visit the manufacturer's website to find this information.
- Open the System Information application on Windows. For Windows Vista and Windows 7, type msinfo32 into the search bar (or the Run dialog box on Windows XP), then click on System Summary.
- The BIOS version will be displayed below the processor speed. Note down the version number and date (if available).
Determine the system's origin. This step is crucial to locate and download the correct BIOS update.
- Did you purchase a pre-assembled computer, or did you buy components and assemble it yourself? If it's a pre-assembled system, such as a Dell computer, check their website; if you built it yourself, visit the motherboard manufacturer's website. Look for the "Drivers and Downloads" section.
- Ensure you download the correct BIOS update compatible with your computer. Downloading the wrong update for a different model can damage your system.
- Remember to download the Read Me file and other documentation and read them thoroughly! This is not the time to skip these materials. There are many important precautions you should be aware of before updating the BIOS, and ignoring them could lead to serious consequences.
First, back up your current BIOS! If you are using a BIOS update tool on Windows or another operating system, make sure to back up the BIOS image beforehand. Most BIOS update programs include this feature ("Save" or "Backup"), and it is highly recommended to perform this step. Visit the manufacturer's website for specific instructions on how to back up your BIOS.
Prepare your system. The biggest risk during a BIOS update is a power outage. While you can't control the power company, you can control how their actions affect you.
- If you're updating a laptop, ensure the battery is fully charged and keep it plugged in. In case of a power outage, the laptop will continue running on battery power.
- If you're updating a desktop, use an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). Like a laptop battery, a UPS will keep your system running even during a power failure.
Proceed with the update. Run the downloaded installer or .exe file to update the BIOS.
- If the software requires a floppy disk, use a 1.44MB " formatted disk. Some bootable floppy disks contain an "autoexec.bat" file that automatically runs the BIOS update. Others may only include the update software, the updated BIOS image, and possibly a 'readme' file with instructions. If there are no instructions but at least two files (e.g., "A06_123.bin" and "awflash.exe"), follow these steps: Type "awflash A06_123.bin" and press Enter. This command updates the software and specifies the A06_123.bin file for the BIOS update.
- Compare the versions. Most BIOS update tools will read the current BIOS image, identify its version, and compare it with the downloaded version. If the current version is older, it will proceed with the update. The user interface of BIOS software varies, but common options include "Write," "Update," or "Confirm" to initiate the update.
Restart your computer. After completion, many update programs will automatically restart your computer. Some may ask for your permission, while others issue a restart warning before proceeding. A few programs may require you to manually restart the system. To do this manually:
- Turn off your computer completely by pressing the power button or using the operating system's shutdown command.
- If available, turn off the main power switch at the back of the computer.
- Wait for one minute.
- Turn the main power switch back on, if applicable.
- Start your computer.
Clear the current BIOS settings if recommended. This is not always necessary and depends on the features changed between the current and updated versions. Follow these steps:
- As soon as you power on the computer, access the BIOS utility. On most systems, you can do this by pressing the Delete key within the first 2-10 seconds of startup. Some systems may use F2, F10, CTRL, Enter, or other keys.
- If you're unsure of the key combination, watch the screen for any prompts during startup.
- To clear BIOS settings, look for options like "Restore Defaults" or "Load Fail-Safe Defaults." These may be on the main page of the BIOS utility or at the end of the menu. Use the arrow keys to navigate and follow on-screen instructions. Once done, save the settings and exit the BIOS utility.
Configure BIOS. You can modify settings if desired. If you've never altered BIOS settings before, it's best to avoid making changes. Most computers function optimally with the default BIOS configuration.
Tips
- BIOS updates are released to fix existing bugs, add support for new hardware and standards, or introduce additional features. Review the release notes or accompanying documentation to understand what improvements the update brings to your system.
- The BIOS provides the operating system with hardware information and is designed to support components within a specific range. Typically, BIOS is stored in EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), which retains data even without power. It is programmed with firmware and can store small amounts of critical user settings. Some BIOS components are soldered to the motherboard, making them less user-friendly, while others are inserted into sockets for easier replacement.
- If the BIOS firmware is corrupted and you have a similar motherboard with the same CPU socket and BIOS chip type, you can recover the BIOS if you're willing to risk another BIOS chip. Refer to articles on recovering corrupted BIOS firmware for more details.
- If your system is functioning well, only update the BIOS if you're prepared to lose the current version (for an extended period) in case the update fails. Manufacturers often repair systems and motherboards with failed BIOS updates, provided they are under warranty. However, this process is time-consuming and involves several steps:
- Contact technical support to verify issues related to the BIOS update.
- Initiate a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) or similar tracking process.
- Ship the product to the manufacturer.
- Wait for inspection, repair, or replacement.
- Wait for the product to be returned.
Warnings
- Do not update the BIOS unless you are certain of what you're doing. Incorrectly following manufacturer instructions can damage the BIOS.
- Ensure a stable power supply during the BIOS update. Any significant fluctuations or power loss during this process can corrupt the BIOS. Therefore, do not turn off or restart the computer while updating. If updating from a bootable operating system, disable all unnecessary and background applications.
- Download BIOS update software only from trusted sources. Obtaining BIOS files from unofficial sources is highly risky. For example, a BIOS version designed for one manufacturer's motherboard may not work with another's. Using the wrong BIOS version can "brick" your system, requiring BIOS replacement or reprogramming by the manufacturer and rendering the computer unusable until resolved.
- This process is highly sensitive, and any power instability can damage the firmware. Exercise extreme caution to ensure the process is carried out safely.
