How to Find and Update your Computer BIOS Version

For IT professionals, understanding and managing a computer’s BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is fundamental. BIOS is firmware embedded in the motherboard that enables your system to boot and communicate with hardware components. From diagnosing hardware issues to improving system performance or adding support for new processors and memory, knowing your BIOS version and keeping it up to date is essential.

In this guide, I’ll share both the technical process and practical considerations I’ve learned over decades of managing enterprise systems, including tips you won’t find in standard guides.

What is BIOS and Why It Matters

BIOS is the first code that runs when you power on your computer. It initializes hardware, performs a POST (Power-On Self-Test), and hands over control to the operating system. Modern systems often use UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface), an evolution of BIOS with more features, such as faster boot times, secure boot, and graphical interfaces.

Key settings managed in BIOS/UEFI include:

• System time and date
• Boot device order
• IDE/SATA configuration
• Num Lock and keyboard defaults
• Power management (APM) and ACPI settings
• Supervisor and user passwords for security

Updating BIOS can fix hardware compatibility issues, patch security vulnerabilities, and enable new features. However, flashing BIOS carries risks—power loss or incorrect flashing can render a system unbootable, so careful planning is critical.

How to Check Your Current BIOS Version

Traditionally, checking BIOS requires a system reboot and entering the BIOS setup (usually by pressing F2, Del, or Esc during boot). However, for efficiency—especially in enterprise environments—you can check BIOS directly from Windows without rebooting:

1. Open the Command Prompt (press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter).
2. Type the command: wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion
3. Press Enter. Your BIOS version will be displayed immediately.

Alternatively, you can use System Information (msinfo32) to view BIOS details along with motherboard model and system firmware type.

Pro Tip: Keeping a record of BIOS versions across multiple systems in your IT environment can help streamline patch management and troubleshooting.

Preparing to Update BIOS

Updating BIOS is not one-size-fits-all—it depends on your motherboard and system manufacturer. Here’s how to prepare safely:

Step 1: Identify Your Motherboard or System Model

• For custom-built PCs, check your motherboard brand and model using: wmic baseboard get product,Manufacturer,version,serialnumber
• For pre-built systems (Dell, HP, Acer, Lenovo), you can usually search by the PC’s model number directly on the manufacturer’s support site.

Step 2: Backup Current Settings and Data

Before flashing, back up:

• Current BIOS settings (take screenshots or write down key settings)
• Critical data on the system (though BIOS update rarely affects storage, it’s good practice)

Step 3: Download the Correct BIOS Update

• Always use the official manufacturer’s BIOS file. Third-party sources are risky.
• Check release notes—look for security fixes, bug resolutions, or new hardware support relevant to your system.

Methods to Update BIOS

There are multiple methods to update BIOS. The choice depends on your comfort level and the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Method 1: BIOS/UEFI Flash via USB

This is the most reliable method:

1. Copy the BIOS file to a USB drive formatted as FAT32.
2. Reboot your system and enter BIOS/UEFI setup.
3. Locate the BIOS Update or EZ Flash option.
4. Select the file on the USB and initiate the update.
5. The system will reboot once complete.

Pro Tip: Never interrupt the process. Some systems may take several minutes—be patient.

Method 2: Windows-Based BIOS Update Tools

Many manufacturers provide Windows utilities to update BIOS directly from the OS:

1. Download the BIOS update utility.
2. Follow on-screen instructions (often requires admin privileges).
3. The system will schedule a reboot to flash BIOS.

Caution: Power failure during this process can brick your PC. Use this only on desktops with reliable power or laptops with a fully charged battery and connected power adapter.

Method 3: DOS-Based BIOS Update

For IT professionals managing legacy systems:

1. Create a bootable DOS USB with the BIOS file and flashing utility.
2. Boot from the USB.
3. Run the flash command, e.g., flash.bat BIOS1234.bin
4. Reboot once the flash completes.

Real-World Considerations

• Downgrading BIOS: If a new BIOS causes instability, most manufacturers allow downgrading by repeating the flashing process with an older version. Always keep older versions archived.
• Enterprise Environments: Many IT departments use network-deployed BIOS updates with tools like SCCM or vendor management utilities for large-scale rollout.
• Security: Modern BIOS updates may include mitigations against firmware attacks. Regular updates are essential for cybersecurity.
• Compatibility: Some updates add CPU or memory support, which can prevent expensive hardware compatibility issues.

Common BIOS Troubleshooting Tips

• System Won’t Boot After Flash: Reset CMOS (using motherboard jumper or removing battery).
• BIOS Update Fails: Ensure the USB is FAT32 and not NTFS. Verify the file integrity.
• Settings Reset: After update, reapply critical BIOS settings (boot order, virtualization, passwords).

Managing BIOS is a core skill for IT professionals. Knowing how to check your version, safely update it, and troubleshoot issues can save hours of downtime and prevent costly hardware compatibility problems. Always follow manufacturer instructions, back up settings, and plan updates during maintenance windows.

Updating BIOS may sound intimidating, but with the right approach, it becomes a routine and essential part of IT system management. Over time, it also becomes a valuable tool for improving security, stability, and performance across any IT environment.o reboot your computer. If there’s a problem with the new BIOS version, there’s a good chance you will be able to downgrade it by downloading an older version from the manufacturer’s website and repeating the flashing process.

Daniel Lutton

From my early days on the helpdesk through roles as a service desk manager, systems administrator, and network engineer, I’ve spent more than 25 years in the IT world. As I transition into cyber security, my goal is to make tech a little less confusing by sharing what I’ve learned and helping others wherever I can.