How to update bios or uefi of motherboard. How to update motherboard bios? How to update the BIOS on a Windows 10 laptop

BIOS is essential component any computer, which allows you to change hardware settings without starting Windows.

As you know, BIOS has many functions, and advanced users usually look for the opportunity to update the BIOS motherboard to gain access to new features. Updating the BIOS can be a bit tricky, so today we are going to show you how to flash the BIOS on Windows 10.

Why upgrade your motherboard?

Flashing the BIOS is a complex procedure, and if you don't do it correctly, you can cause serious damage to your computer. The main problem with BIOS is that it is located on a chip on your motherboard and if the update process goes wrong, you will not be able to run Windows. If you are not an experienced user, but there are problems with the hardware, and you don’t see any other way to fix it as soon as you update the BIOS.

To successfully update the BIOS, you must ensure that the update process is not interrupted by a power loss or unexpected shutdown. If this happens, the process BIOS updates It won't work and you will most likely end up with damage to your motherboard. To avoid any problems, be sure to plug your laptop directly into an electrical outlet or use a desktop UPS.

Although updating the BIOS can be potentially dangerous, there are certain benefits after updating the BIOS. Sometimes a BIOS update brings support for new hardware, such as support for new processors. Another benefit of updating the BIOS is improved stability and new features such as overclocking.

If you don't see a reason to keep your BIOS to date, especially because updating the BIOS incorrectly can lead to many other problems, then it is recommended to update the BIOS. There are several ways to update your BIOS, and today we are going to show you how to do it.

Motherboard BIOS version

Before you update your BIOS, you need to know which one you are using. The easiest way to do this is to open the Run window using the Win + R keys and enter the word "msinfo32". OK.

In the System Information window, you will see all the information about the computer, including the BIOS version.

Updating motherboard BIOS via USB flash drive

After discovering the BIOS version you are using, you need to download the new version from your motherboard manufacturer's website. Go to the Support section and select your motherboard model. In my case, this is updating the Gigabyte motherboard via a flash drive: http://www.gigabyte.ru/support/

Be sure to download the BIOS update for the exact motherboard model you are using. Installing the wrong BIOS version on the motherboard may cause damage. Download and extract the archive. The BIOS update files must be transferred to a USB flash drive to continue.

Now you need to connect the flash - USB drive to the computer and access to the BIOS firmware. Enter BIOS. You can access the BIOS during boot by pressing the appropriate key. In most cases, this is DEL; watch for the message when booting the system, which key is responsible for entering the BIOS setup mode.

After entering the BIOS, find the BIOS update option and select it. Now you need to select the BIOS update file from your USB flash drive and wait for the process to complete.

Programs for updating BIOS

You may want to consider using apps on Windows based. Many motherboard manufacturers have a BIOS update application. Motherboard manufacturers often recommend the best method for updating the BIOS, so be sure to use this method.

  • ASUS- ASUS BIOS Live Update snail: https://www.asus.com/ru/
  • MSI- MSI LiveUpdate: https://ru.msi.com/
  • Gigabyte - APPCenter program: https://www.gigabyte.com/Support/Motherboard.

How to update BIOS Gigabyte

To update the gigabyte motherboard, you need to download the latest firmware and unpack the archive. We discussed above how to download and prepare update files.

Open APPCenter and click on the @BIOS section.

In chapter Update from File specify the path to the previously unpacked firmware. Click Next. Read the Warning. If you have not changed your mind about updating the BIOS, click OK.

Updating your BIOS is not a difficult process, but it can be potentially dangerous, so be careful if you decide to update your BIOS. Many BIOS update tools will give you the option to save a backup copy of your current BIOS, so be sure to use this feature.

If you are having hardware problems and the only solution is to update the BIOS, carefully read your motherboard's instruction manual to see how to update the BIOS correctly.

In the vast majority of cases, the user No need update the BIOS, but there are exceptions when updating the BIOS is simply necessary to gain access to different functions or new features. For example, to install a new generation processor on a compatible motherboard that was originally designed for more early models processors. Often this scenario is directly related to updating the BIOS and in such cases the user has a question: how to update the BIOS?

For reference: This article describes basic principles and concepts the very concept of updating the BIOS. Each manufacturer has its own BIOS/UEFI update process. Therefore, it is best to consult the official manual from your PC or motherboard manufacturer. After reading these instructions, of course.

Although in modern computers UEFI is used instead of BIOS, this article uses the term “BIOS update” to also mean updating UEFI. You can find out in a separate article.

Warning: Be very careful when updating the BIOS. If your computer freezes, crashes, or loses power, the BIOS or UEFI may become corrupted, leaving your device bricked. This risk must always be taken into account. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact a specialist, technical support, or completely abandon the idea of ​​updating the BIOS. And yes, not worth it update just like that. If you do not know why exactly you need to update the BIOS, it is better not to update it at all. The universal principle “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it” applies to this procedure like no other.

How to check BIOS version

Before updating the BIOS, you need to find out if there are new versions for the motherboard. And to do this you need to find out the motherboard model or BIOS version.

How to update the BIOS of a computer or laptop

Now go to your motherboard or computer manufacturer's website to check if there are any updates software motherboard. The section with driver downloads often lists all BIOS versions released for this motherboard. Select the latest option or the specific version you need. It should also be noted that manufacturers often offer beta BIOS versions, which may not be as stable as the release versions. We do not recommend installing beta versions unless you have experience with BIOS flashing and other experiments. We remind you that you should install a specific BIOS version only if you know what you need it for.

Again, each manufacturer may have its own website structure and download section, but the basic principle is that BIOS versions are often located in the section with drivers for your particular computer or motherboard.

Most likely the BIOS will be packaged in a ZIP archive. Unzip its contents to any folder and familiarize yourself with the contents. There are also cases when the BIOS is loaded as an executable file.

There are several methods for flashing the BIOS, but you need to look for the one recommended by the manufacturer depending on the motherboard or computer. A frequently downloaded BIOS file contains a Readme file where you will find detailed information about the installation and flashing process.

Some manufacturers have provided a special button for updating inside the BIOS. You load the updated BIOS onto the flash drive, reboot the computer, open the BIOS, click the update button, select the file on the flash drive and the BIOS magically updates to new version. You can get into the BIOS in different ways. Often these are the F12, F2 or Delete buttons, which must be pressed while the computer boots.

There are also more traditional DOS-based BIOS flashing tools. You will need to create a DOS Live USB flash drive, copy the firmware utility and the BIOS itself to it. After this, the computer reboots and starts from the created USB flash drive. After this, the BIOS flashing procedure takes place inside the minimalist DOS interface. Often the command for flashing looks like flash.batBIOS.bin or something like that. If Motherboard BIOS your computer's board must be flashed via DOS, the manufacturer will most likely ensure that necessary files downloaded along with the BIOS on the official website. This must be a file with permission bat or exe. We remind you: Always look for guides on updating the BIOS on the manufacturer's official website. This approach guarantees you a minimal chance of making a mistake.

All the described methods for flashing BIOS can slightly frighten an unprepared user and discourage him from flashing. And this is good, since, most likely, such a user does not need to flash the BIOS at all. Still, there are more friendly, but at the same time more risky ways to update the BIOS. Some manufacturers have developed special applications, capable of updating the BIOS within Windows itself. It is difficult to recommend this method.

The developers themselves often do not advise using them (paradoxical, but true). It is best to use the update mechanisms built into the BIOS or a DOS Live flash drive. MSI, for example, advises its users to update the BIOS exclusively within the BIOS itself.

Flashing the BIOS inside Windows can lead to a number of problems. Software running on Windows may prevent the utility from properly uploading the firmware. The fact is that BIOS is low-level software that should very deep get into the hardware of your computer. There is a risk that the operating system's protective mechanisms will interfere with this process and interfere with the operation of the utility, which in turn will lead to BIOS errors or failure. Keep this in mind. If there is an alternative, it is always better to use DOS or the built-in BIOS update mechanism than a Windows application.

In general, the BIOS update process consists of the following steps:

  1. Download the BIOS from the official website.
  2. Copy it to a flash drive.
  3. Boot into BIOS.
  4. Launch the update mechanism and select the downloaded file.
  5. Wait for the process to complete and restart the computer.

Yes, you won't find specific instructions here. This is impossible to do due to the abundance different manufacturers and various nuances, but we hope that this article has given you a general impression of what a BIOS update is and how it all works.

The reasons for updating BIOS versions can be different: replacing the processor on the motherboard, problems with installing new equipment, eliminating identified deficiencies in new models. Let's look at how you can perform such updates yourself using a flash drive.

This procedure can be performed in several simple steps. It’s worth saying right away that all actions must be performed exactly in the order in which they are given below.

Step 1: Determining your motherboard model

To define a model, you can do the following:

  • take the documentation for your motherboard;
  • open the system unit case and look inside;
  • use Windows tools;
  • use special program AIDA64 Extreme.

In more detail, in order to view the necessary information using software Windows, do this:

  1. Press the key combination "Win" + "R".
  2. In the window that opens "Run" enter the msinfo32 command.
  3. Click "OK".
  4. A window appears containing information about the system, and it contains data about installed version BIOS.


If this command fails, then use AIDA64 Extreme software, for this:


As you can see, everything is quite simple. Now you need to download the firmware.


Once the firmware is downloaded, you can install it.

Step 3: Install the update

You can make updates in different ways - through BIOS and through DOS. Let's look at each method in more detail.

Updating via BIOS occurs as follows:


Sometimes to reinstall the BIOS you need to specify booting from a flash drive. To do this, do the following:


Read more about this procedure in our tutorial on BIOS setup to boot from a USB stick.

This method is relevant when it is not possible to make updates from the operating system.

The same procedure using DOS is done a little more complicated. This option is suitable for advanced users. Depending on the motherboard model, this process includes the following steps:


More detailed instructions instructions for working with this method can usually be found on the manufacturer’s website. Large manufacturers such as ASUS or Gigabyte constantly update the BIOS for motherboards and have special software for this. Using such utilities, making updates is easy.

A minor update failure will break the system. Only update the BIOS if the system is not working properly. When downloading updates, download full version. If it is indicated that this is an alpha or beta version, then this indicates that it needs improvement.

It is also recommended to flash the BIOS when using a UPS (source uninterruptible power supply). Otherwise, if there is a power outage during the update, the BIOS will crash and your system unit will stop working.

Before performing updates, be sure to read the firmware instructions on the manufacturer's website. As a rule, they come in an archive with download files.

As you probably know, BIOS is a firmware that is stored in a ROM (read-only memory) chip on the computer motherboard and is responsible for the configuration of all PC devices. And the better this program, the higher the stability and performance of the operating system. This means that the version of CMOS Setup can be periodically updated in order to improve the performance of the OS, correct errors and expand the list of supported equipment.

When starting to update the BIOS, remember that if this process is unsuccessful and the equipment fails, you lose the right to warranty repairs from the manufacturer. Be sure to ensure uninterrupted power supply when flashing ROM. And think carefully about whether you really need to upgrade the firmware.

Method 1: Update using the utility built into the BIOS

Modern motherboards often have firmware with a built-in utility for updating the firmware. They are convenient to use. Let's take, for example, EZ Flash 2 Utility from ASUS.

  1. Download the required BIOS version from the hardware manufacturer's website. We're throwing it away installation file onto a flash drive and insert it into the USB port of the computer. Reboot the PC and enter the BIOS settings.
  2. In the main menu, move to the tab "Tool" and launch the utility by clicking on the line .

  3. Specify the path to the file new firmware and press Enter.

  4. After a short process of updating the BIOS version, the computer reboots. The set goal has been achieved.

    5. Method 2: USB BIOS Flashback

    This method has recently appeared on motherboards from well-known manufacturers, such as ASUS. When using it, you do not need to enter the BIOS, boot Windows or MS-DOS. You don't even need to turn on the computer.


    Method 3: Update in MS-DOS environment

    Once upon a time, updating the BIOS from DOS required a floppy disk with a utility from the manufacturer and a downloaded firmware archive. But since floppy drives have become a real rarity, now a USB drive is quite suitable for upgrading CMOS Setup. You can learn more about this method in another article on our resource.

    Method 4: Update in Windows

    Every self-respecting computer hardware manufacturer produces special programs for flashing the BIOS from the operating system. Usually they are on the software discs included with the motherboard or on the company’s website. Working with this software is quite easy; the program can automatically find and download firmware files from the network and update the BIOS version. You just need to install and run this software. You can read about such programs by clicking on the link below.

    In conclusion, a couple of small tips. Be sure to back up the old BIOS firmware on a flash drive or other media in case of a possible rollback to the previous version. And download files only on the official website of the manufacturer. It is better to be overly careful than to waste your budget on repair services.

The PC must be constantly updated. And this applies not only to hardware, operating systems and applications. But it is advisable to do this only when a serious need arises.

If the machine works normally without glitches and errors, then update to latest version Bios is simply not required. Since this procedure is extremely unsafe.

Why update?

The device in question requires new firmware:

  1. Newly installed device is not supported;
  2. when a conflict arises with any application that needs to be installed on a personal computer;
  3. when you need to increase PC performance;
  4. if the outdated firmware is damaged.

Most often, an update is required due to the installation of new hardware - a processor, hard drive. Much less often - video cards, random access memory. This need arises as a result of a conflict between hardware and firmware. Very often old BIOS simply do not see hard disks large volume. In most cases, this situation is corrected by updating.

Some applications do not support working with certain BIOS and their programs. In most cases, this situation can be resolved by updating the version. Sometimes this is required to run some professional applications.

Often, old firmware simply does not allow you to overclock the processor in various ways. If you need to change the CPU frequency upward or apply a higher voltage to it, you need to update the Bios. This usually provides ample opportunities for manipulating various kinds of parameters central processor and other devices.

Sometimes the PC starts producing errors just like that, for no apparent reason. Often the culprit is Bios. In many cases, problems of this kind can be resolved by installing new program in Bios.

Video: reflash BIOS

Current version

There are several ways to determine the BIOS version:

  1. before the OS starts loading;
  2. operating system means;
  3. using third party software.

In order not to waste time on performing any unnecessary actions, the PC owner can simply look at the software labeling of the device in question before starting Windows.

To do this, you need to follow these steps in strict order:

  1. turn on PC;
  2. wait for the corresponding icon to appear (“American Megatrends”, “Energy” and others);
  3. Click on the button called “Pause Break”.

This key allows you to stop downloading personal computer at any stage. You should wait until a table or list of characteristics appears on the monitor. The user needs to detect the inscription “Bios Revision” or “Bios Version”. Next to one of these phrases there must be a combination of numbers. These numbers indicate the version of Bios used.

You can also find out the software markings of the PC component in question simply by going to its settings.

To do this you need to do the following:

  • turn on the computer;
  • until the image appears, press the “Delete” key several times;
  • in the section called "Main" find item “Information” -> “Version”.

The simplest and in a safe way Finding out the version is to use the item in the “Start” button called “Run”.

The following actions must be taken:

  1. open “Run”;
  2. in the field that appears, enter “msinfo32”;
  3. press “Enter” or simply click on “Ok”.

This will open the standard operating room component Windows systems. It contains all the information about the system, including information about the Bios firmware.

How to update Bios on a computer

There are three ways to update the software for the device in question:

  • in MS-DOS mode;
  • V Microsoft Windows directly;
  • without logging into Windows and MS-DOS.

Each method has both its advantages and disadvantages.

Where can I get the update?

To update Bios, you must first find the right application for this PC component. It is best to download it from the official website of the motherboard manufacturer or Bios. The most the right way To find out the model and name of the manufacturer of computer components is a visual inspection of the motherboard itself and the chip of the upgraded device located on it.

You can also use any specialized program to find out the firmware markings and the name of the manufacturer. Everest is best suited for this. The most important advantage this application ahead of its analogues is that it offers the user links to the official websites of the manufacturer, where you can find everything you need.

Another source of new firmware versions can be various unofficial sites on the Internet. But the likelihood of downloading counterfeit software with a virus or simply not working, which can damage your PC, is very high. Therefore, using applications from unreliable sources is highly discouraged.

Making a backup copy

Before you carry out any actions that make changes to the firmware, you must make a backup copy of it. This will allow you to avoid various kinds of problems if any error occurs that makes the hardware inoperable. The backup copy must be saved to external media (USB disk, flash drive, floppy disk) to avoid the need to retrieve it from the hard drive.

The easiest way to make a copy of the software to be updated is to use an application called EZ Flash (used on ASUS).

The copying process consists of the following main steps:

  1. manufacturing bootable flash drive with MS-DOS operating system;
  2. After inserting the USB flash drive into the port, you need to restart the PC;
  3. after pressing the “Delete” key during boot, you should find the “Tool” tab;
  4. select Asus EZ 2 Utility;
  5. press the “F2” key and enter the name backup copy.

After completing all of the above operations, all data necessary for recovery will be saved on the selected media. If necessary, they can be easily used.

Installation

Most in a simple way is to install new software on the personal computer component in question directly in operating system Windows.

To do this you need to do the following:

  • download a special update program for specific model motherboard;
  • run the executable file.

Most manufacturers have their own update application. That is why it is necessary to use only files downloaded from official resources. For example, ASUS has an application for performing the action in question called ASUSUpdate. It is installed like a regular application, the menu is intuitive, even if it is in English.

Some manufacturers provide updates to their products without logging into the OS. Special tools for performing update are already built into the equipment ROM. For example, ASRock Instant Flash utility can do everything on its own in minutes. necessary actions. Just press “F6” - it will scan all available sources of information.

Reset your system settings

There are two ways to reset your system:

  • software;
  • hardware

To use the first method you must:


To perform a hardware reset, you must use a special jumper or remove the battery from the special connector for at least 30 minutes. After completing the necessary actions, a reboot is performed.

Possible problems

When installing new firmware versions, various types of errors may occur:

  • version mismatch;
  • data recording error.

The most common problem is the use of inappropriate files to perform update. If this type of problem occurs, you must use a backup to return the system to its original state. If a data recording error occurs, you should proceed in the same way - reset the settings to standard.

Video: update the BIOS

When carrying out an operation of this type, it is necessary to ensure that the supplied voltage is stable. If electricity will be disabled suddenly, there is a high probability of severe damage to the updated component. Which is unacceptable.

It is important to use firmware only from reliable sources. Since there is always a possibility of foreign data containing bookmarks or viruses. All of this can damage your computer. It is also worth checking the serviceability of the coin-cell battery inside the system unit.

Many users do not understand why update Bios. It is necessary to perform this operation only in extreme cases, when it is simply impossible to resolve a conflict in an alternative way. The procedure should be carried out as carefully as possible to avoid damage.