How to Update BIOS On PC?
Keeping your system firmware current ensures better performance, hardware compatibility, and security patches. If you’re wondering how to update BIOS on your PC or laptop, this manual outlines all the safe and practical ways to do it, using only verified steps as of 2025.
What Is BIOS and Why Should You Update It?
BIOS (also known as UEFI in modern systems) is the embedded software that lets the motherboard communicate with your processor, memory, and other internal parts. Manufacturers sometimes release updated BIOS files that add support for newer processors, fix bugs, or improve thermal behavior.
You don’t always need to update the BIOS, especially if your PC is running fine. But for certain hardware upgrades, like installing a 13th Gen Intel CPU on a 600-series motherboard or using a Ryzen 5000 chip on a B450 board, updating the BIOS is necessary.
⚠️ Caution: A failed update or using the wrong BIOS file can stop your motherboard from working. Make sure you pick the exact firmware file for your motherboard model and avoid power interruptions during the process.
Also, keep in mind: Custom settings like RAM speed, boot order, and voltage configurations may reset during an update.
Ways to Check the BIOS Version Installed
Before starting, it’s important to check the current BIOS version on your device. That way, you’ll know whether the update is actually required.
Method 1: Check Inside the BIOS
- Restart your system and press the key to enter BIOS (commonly F2, Del, or Esc).
- The version info is typically displayed on the main menu or top panel.
Method 2: View It in Windows
You can also check it using built-in tools.
| Steps to Follow |
| 1. Open the System Information tool (search for it in Start). |
| 2. Look for the BIOS Version/Date entry on the right. |
💡 Note: Some boards might not display the BIOS version correctly in Windows. If unsure, verify it from within the BIOS interface itself.
Backup Your BIOS Settings Before Updating
Before moving forward with the process, it’s smart to keep a record of your BIOS settings, especially if you’ve modified anything.
- Take Photos: You can use your phone to take pictures of important menu sections.
- Use a USB Drive: On some motherboards, pressing F12 while in BIOS captures screenshots directly to a flash drive.
Getting the Correct BIOS Update File
Each motherboard model has a specific file, usually available on the official product support page.
| Steps to Download the BIOS File |
| 1. Search for your motherboard’s model page online. |
| 2. Open the support/download section. |
| 3. Choose the latest non-beta BIOS version. |
| 4. Extract the file if it’s in a zip format. |
Method 1: Flashing BIOS Through UEFI
This is the most reliable and widely used way to apply a BIOS update.
Instructions:
- Copy the extracted BIOS file onto a USB flash drive formatted in FAT32.
- If you’re using BitLocker on Windows Pro, suspend it before proceeding. Otherwise, data loss may occur.
- Restart the system and press the BIOS access key (F2 or Del).
- Switch from the basic to advanced view (e.g., press F7 on ASUS).
- Find the update utility (names vary by brand):
| Brand | Tool Name |
| ASUS | EZ Flash |
| Gigabyte | Q-Flash |
| MSI | M-Flash |
| ASRock | Instant Flash |
- Locate the BIOS file from your USB drive.
- Confirm the update when prompted.
The process should finish in a couple of minutes, and the system may restart automatically. After the update, go back to the BIOS and restore any custom settings.
Method 2: Updating via BIOS Flashback (Without Booting)
This method works when the system can’t boot because the processor is unsupported or missing.
Steps to Use BIOS Flashback:
- Download the firmware from the manufacturer’s page using another computer.
- Rename the BIOS file as specified by the vendor (check the readme or instructions).
- Format a USB drive with FAT32 and copy the renamed BIOS file.
- Turn off the target PC and connect it to power.
- Plug the USB stick into the dedicated port labeled “BIOS” (refer to the manual).
- Hold the BIOS Flashback button for a few seconds until the status LED starts flashing.
| BIOS Flashback Status | Meaning |
| Flashing light | Update in progress |
| Solid light | Error or issue |
| Light turns off | Update completed |
If the light doesn’t flash at all, recheck the USB format and file name. Ensure that the power supply is connected properly.
Method 3: Flashing BIOS Using Windows Utility
Though convenient, updating the BIOS from inside the OS is the least recommended method due to higher risks.
Some manufacturers offer Windows apps that allow BIOS updates. These apps differ for each brand:
| Vendor | App Name |
| ASUS | AI Suite 3 |
| ASRock | App Shop |
| MSI | Live Update |
| Gigabyte | @BIOS or App Center |
Steps to Use Windows Update Utility:
- Open the update utility from your desktop.
- Either let the software search for updates or manually select a previously downloaded BIOS file.
- Confirm the version and click the Update button.
- Accept warnings and prompts to begin the update.
- Your system may restart into a firmware flashing screen automatically.
Post update, you might need to re-enter BIOS settings manually.
Final Notes on BIOS Updates
- Don’t unplug the system or shut it down mid-update.
- Use a UPS or reliable power source to avoid interruptions.
- After updating the BIOS, recheck overclocking, XMP, or boot options.
By following these trusted approaches, you now know exactly how to update BIOS safely and correctly, even if your system won’t boot.
Whether using the UEFI interface, BIOS Flashback, or Windows tool (if necessary), make sure you pick the method that suits your hardware and skill level.
Remember: Always double-check the firmware version and model before starting, and never rush through the process.
