Should You Update Your BIOS?

Unlike other software, BIOS updates should only be done when necessary — not as routine maintenance. Good reasons to update: fixing a specific bug affecting your system, adding support for new CPUs or RAM, or improving security. A failed BIOS update can brick your motherboard. Only proceed if you have a clear reason.

Step 1: Check Your Current BIOS Version

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    Press Windows + R → type msinfo32 → Enter

    In the System Information window, find BIOS Version/Date. Note the version number and your motherboard manufacturer and model (also shown in this window).

Step 2: Download the BIOS Update

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    Go to your motherboard manufacturer's website

    ASUS: asus.com/support, MSI: msi.com/support, Gigabyte: gigabyte.com/support, ASRock: asrock.com/support. Find your exact motherboard model and download the latest BIOS file.

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    Read the release notes

    Check what the update fixes or adds. If none of the listed changes apply to your situation, consider skipping it.

Step 3: Flash the BIOS

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    Method A: BIOS Flash Utility (easiest)

    Many modern motherboards have a built-in update utility. Restart and press Delete or F2 to enter BIOS. Look for ASUS EZ Flash, MSI M-Flash, Gigabyte Q-Flash or similar. Select the downloaded file from a USB drive and flash. The computer restarts automatically.

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    Method B: Windows Utility

    Some manufacturers provide a Windows-based tool (ASUS AI Suite, Gigabyte App Center). Run the utility, select the BIOS file and update from within Windows. Less reliable than flashing from BIOS directly.

Critical safety rulesDo not turn off the computer or lose power during a BIOS update — this can permanently damage the motherboard. Plug into a UPS or ensure your laptop is plugged in. Always download BIOS files only from the official manufacturer website. Never use a BIOS file for a different motherboard model.
USB BIOS FlashbackMany modern motherboards support flashing the BIOS from a USB drive even without a CPU or RAM installed. This lets you recover from a failed flash or update before installing a new CPU. Check your motherboard manual for details.

Frequently Asked Questions

A failed update can prevent the computer from booting. Many modern motherboards have a dual-BIOS feature (backup BIOS) that automatically recovers. If yours does not, you may need to use the USB BIOS Flashback feature or send the board to the manufacturer for recovery. This is rare but the reason to only update when necessary.
Yes — BIOS updates typically reset all settings to factory defaults including overclocking, XMP/EXPO RAM profiles and custom fan curves. Note down or photograph your BIOS settings before updating so you can reconfigure them afterwards.