how do i update my bios??

[GuyThatNeedsHelp]

just wondering

 

[cdogg]

The best way is to obtain the executable file from the mobo manufacturer's website which will prompt you to make a bootup disk. This bootup disk will take care of the rest. Just be sure you read the documentation carefully before attempting to do so. Interrupting the process can be fatal!!

 

[paparazi]

First thing! DO YOU NEED TO?????
Flashing bios just resolves problems or enables the fitment of a faster processor, if you have no problems then there is really nothing to be gained by doing it!
If you do need to flash then download the AWD flash utillity, the flash update and the read me files for your specific motherboard from the motherboards website, be very careful, follow the instructions to the letter, make 100% sure you have downloaded the correct flash.
Flashing Bios can be terminal if done incorrectly!!
Martin Vote if you found this post helpful please!!

 

[bgauntt]

One thing I have picked up since I have been working and since taking the A+ class is that it never hurts to keep you BIOS updated and it is an easy process.

 

[cdogg]

It's actually a toss-up when it comes to whether you should flash a BIOS often and keep it up-to-date. If you're having a hardware conflict and you've tried everything else including consulting the hardware's documentation and website, then it's usually a good idea to flash the BIOS.

Many will say not to mess with it if there aren't any problems on your system. This may be a good idea if your BIOS is only 1 or 2 revisions behind. However, if you visit your mobo's manufacturer's website and notice 4 or more revisions of the BIOS have been released, it's a good idea to go ahead and do it, regardless if you're having problems or not.

The reason you ask? Simple. BIOS upgrades can mean faster boot times, more efficient fan and/or power usage (especially on laptops), and not to mention saving you time of having to do it later if future upgrades turn sour.

 

[hotfusion]

In my mainboard booklet it states in bold text NOT to flash the BIOS unless you absolutely have to. If anything goes wrong, there may be no way back......... Also I've never done it before. :-D My suggestions are what I would try myself. If incorrect, I welcome corrections to my rather limited knowledge. Andy.

 

[topscribe]

The usual process is to go the the web site of the manufacturer of your computer and download the update file. It will usually be an EXE file that will create a bootable floppy, from which you can simply follow instructions to boot it. A few caveats:

1. Be sure your BIOS is flashable. Documentation on the manufacturer's web site should tell you.

2. Get it ONLY from the manufacturer's website. The only exception may be a company specializing in BIOS updates, such as Unicore (

http://www.unicore.com).

3. Be sure the specifications to the flash file match those of your BIOS/MOTHERBOARD >>>>>EXACTLY<<<<<<! A slight difference in specifications may mean an entirely different BIOS and may lead to disaster.

4. Following the advice of a couple other responses to your post, consider whether it is necessary for (1) hardware compatibility or (2) age of the BIOS itself. I am not opposed to updating a BIOS, but I like to have a pending reason for doing so.

Have a good New Year.

 

[cdogg]

hotfusion,

Those manuals are meant for beginners and is typically good advice unless you know what you're doing. As long as you take extreme care, you'll be alright.

Limiting yourself is not what this forum should be about!!