How Do You Upgrade BIOS? A Complete, Safe Guide for Modern Systems

Updated on January 23, 2026, by Xcitium

• Have you ever seen a system update recommendation and wondered, how do you upgrade BIOS without breaking your computer? You’re not alone. For many users, IT managers, and business leaders, BIOS updates feel risky, confusing, and easy to postpone.

  Yet knowing how do you upgrade BIOS correctly is critical for system stability, hardware compatibility, and security. BIOS updates can fix vulnerabilities, support new CPUs, and improve performance—if done the right way.

  This guide explains how do you upgrade BIOS step by step, using simple language and best practices trusted by professionals.

  What Is BIOS and Why Does It Matter?

  Before diving into how do you upgrade BIOS, let’s clarify what BIOS actually is.

  BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is low-level firmware that starts your computer and connects hardware to the operating system. Without it, your system wouldn’t boot.

  Why BIOS Is Important

  • Initializes hardware during startup

  • Ensures OS compatibility

  • Controls firmware-level security

  • Supports CPU and memory updates

  Because BIOS runs before the OS, keeping it updated is essential for system integrity and cybersecurity.

  Should You Upgrade Your BIOS?

  A common question is not just how do you upgrade BIOS, but whether you should.

  You Should Upgrade BIOS If:

  • You’re installing new hardware (CPU, RAM)

  • The manufacturer fixes security vulnerabilities

  • You experience system instability

  • You’re advised by the vendor or IT team

  You Should Avoid BIOS Updates If:

  • Your system works perfectly

  • The update adds features you don’t need

  • You’re unsure of the exact model

  Unlike regular software updates, BIOS updates should be purpose-driven, not routine.

  Risks of Upgrading BIOS (And How to Avoid Them)

  Understanding risks is essential when learning how do you upgrade BIOS safely.

  Potential Risks

  • Power failure during update

  • Installing the wrong BIOS version

  • Corrupted firmware

  • System won’t boot

  How Professionals Reduce Risk

  • Use manufacturer tools only

  • Ensure uninterrupted power

  • Verify model numbers carefully

  • Follow official documentation

  When done correctly, BIOS updates are low risk and high value.

  How Do You Upgrade BIOS: Step-by-Step Guide

  Now let’s get to the core question: how do you upgrade BIOS safely and correctly.

  Step 1: Identify Your Current BIOS Version

  Before upgrading, you need to know what you’re running.

  On Windows

  1. Press Win + R

  2. Type msinfo32

  3. Look for BIOS Version/Date

  This step prevents unnecessary or incorrect updates.

  Step 2: Find the Correct BIOS Update

  Visit your system or motherboard manufacturer’s official website:

  • Dell, HP, Lenovo (laptops/desktops)

  • ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte (motherboards)

  Search using:

  • Exact model number

  • Revision number (if listed)

  Never download BIOS updates from third-party websites.

  Step 3: Read the Release Notes Carefully

  This step is often skipped—but it’s critical when learning how do you upgrade BIOS properly.

  Release notes tell you:

  • What the update fixes

  • Hardware compatibility changes

  • Known issues

  • Required prerequisites

  If the update doesn’t address your needs, you may not need it.

  Step 4: Choose the Right BIOS Update Method

  There are several safe ways to upgrade BIOS.

  Method 1: Manufacturer Update Utility (Recommended)

  Most vendors provide built-in tools.

  Pros

  • User-friendly

  • Automatic validation

  • Lower error risk

  Cons

  • Requires OS access

  Method 2: BIOS Update via USB (Advanced)

  Used when OS-based updates aren’t available.

  Steps

  1. Format USB to FAT32

  2. Copy BIOS file

  3. Boot into BIOS

  4. Use built-in flash tool

  This method is common in enterprise IT environments.

  Method 3: BIOS Update via Windows

  Some vendors allow BIOS firmware updates directly from Windows.

  Note:
  Close all applications and disable sleep mode before proceeding.

  Step 5: Prepare Your System Before Updating

  Preparation is key to answering how do you upgrade BIOS safely.

  Checklist

  • Plug in laptop power

  • Use UPS for desktops

  • Close background apps

  • Disable antivirus temporarily

  • Back up critical data

  BIOS updates don’t touch files—but caution is smart.

  Step 6: Run the BIOS Update

  Once started:

  • Do not power off

  • Do not restart

  • Do not interrupt

  The update may reboot your system automatically. This is normal.

  Step 7: Verify the BIOS Update

  After reboot:

  • Reopen msinfo32

  • Confirm new BIOS version

  • Check system stability

  At this stage, how do you upgrade BIOS becomes a completed success.

  How BIOS Updates Improve Cybersecurity

  For security teams, BIOS updates are more than maintenance—they’re defense.

  Security Benefits

  • Patch firmware vulnerabilities

  • Prevent boot-level malware

  • Improve Secure Boot support

  • Enable hardware-based protections

  Firmware attacks are growing. BIOS updates help stop threats before the OS loads.

  How IT Managers Should Handle BIOS Updates at Scale

  For enterprises, the question isn’t just how do you upgrade BIOS, but how to do it at scale.

  Best Practices

  • Standardize hardware models

  • Test updates in staging environments

  • Automate where possible

  • Schedule maintenance windows

  • Maintain rollback plans

  Controlled BIOS updates reduce downtime and risk.

  Common BIOS Update Mistakes to Avoid

  Even experienced users make mistakes.

  Top Errors

  • Flashing the wrong BIOS version

  • Updating during power instability

  • Ignoring vendor instructions

  • Skipping backups

  • Rushing the process

  Avoiding these mistakes makes BIOS updates predictable and safe.

  How Often Should You Upgrade BIOS?

  There’s no fixed schedule.

  General Guidance

  • Update when security fixes are released

  • Update for hardware compatibility

  • Avoid unnecessary updates

  Unlike OS updates, BIOS updates should be intentional, not automatic.

  BIOS vs UEFI: What’s the Difference?

  Modern systems use UEFI, but the update principles remain similar.

  Feature	BIOS	UEFI
  Interface	Text-based	Graphical
  Security	Limited	Secure Boot
  Speed	Slower	Faster
  Update Process	Manual	Tool-assisted

• Knowing this helps clarify how do you upgrade BIOS on modern systems.

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Is it safe to upgrade BIOS?

  Yes, when done correctly using manufacturer tools and proper preparation.

  2. Can a BIOS update damage my computer?

  Only if interrupted or incorrect files are used. Following best practices minimizes risk.

  3. How long does a BIOS update take?

  Typically 5–10 minutes, including reboots.

  4. Do BIOS updates improve performance?

  Sometimes. They mainly improve compatibility, stability, and security.

  5. Should businesses automate BIOS updates?

  Yes, but only with testing and controlled rollout strategies.

  Final Thoughts: BIOS Updates Are Safer Than You Think

  Understanding how do you upgrade BIOS removes fear and replaces it with confidence. BIOS updates are no longer mysterious or dangerous when approached methodically.

  For individuals, they ensure stability.
  For IT teams, they strengthen security.
  For businesses, they reduce long-term risk.

  Firmware matters—and ignoring it can cost more than updating it.

  See How Modern Security Protects Every Layer

  Firmware security is only one piece of the puzzle. If you want full visibility and protection across endpoints, networks, and systems, it’s time to modernize your security strategy.

  👉 Request a demo today:
  🔗 https://www.xcitium.com/request-demo/