Updating your system’s BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) might sound intimidating, but it’s an essential maintenance task that can improve system stability, fix bugs, enhance hardware compatibility, and even boost performance. If you’re running Windows 11 and want to make sure your PC is up to date at the hardware level, you’ll need to know how to check for BIOS updates.
This guide will walk you through everything — from understanding what BIOS is, to checking your current version, and finally finding out if an update is available.
📝 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)
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BIOS (or UEFI) is firmware that controls your computer’s hardware during startup.
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Updating the BIOS can fix bugs, improve performance, and support new hardware.
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You can check your BIOS version in Windows 11 using System Information, Command Prompt, or BIOS Setup Utility.
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To find BIOS updates, visit your PC manufacturer’s website or use their official update tools.
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Always back up your data before attempting an update.
What Is BIOS and Why Does It Matter?
Think of BIOS as your PC’s brain at startup. It initializes hardware before Windows loads. On newer machines, BIOS has evolved into UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface), which is faster, more secure, and supports modern hardware.
Updating your BIOS can:
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Fix boot issues.
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Improve hardware compatibility (e.g., new CPUs, RAM).
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Patch security vulnerabilities.
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Improve system performance and stability.
⚠️ However, updating BIOS incorrectly can cause problems. That’s why the first step is always checking if you actually need the update.
Step 1: Find Your Current BIOS Version in Windows 11
There are multiple ways to check your BIOS version.
Method 1: Using System Information
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Press Win + R, type
msinfo32, and hit Enter. -
In the System Information window, look for BIOS Version/Date.
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Note down the manufacturer and version number.
Method 2: Using Command Prompt
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Press Win + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
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Enter this command:
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The output shows your BIOS version.
Method 3: Using PowerShell
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Open PowerShell as administrator.
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Type:
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The BIOS version will display.
Method 4: Directly in BIOS/UEFI
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Restart your computer.
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Press the correct key during startup (F2, F10, Delete, or Esc, depending on your manufacturer).
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On the BIOS/UEFI screen, look for the version number.
Step 2: Check If a BIOS Update Is Available
Once you know your BIOS version, the next step is finding out if an update exists.
Method 1: Visit Manufacturer’s Website
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Go to your laptop or motherboard manufacturer’s support page.
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Enter your model number.
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Look under Drivers & Downloads > BIOS.
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Compare the latest version listed with your current version.
💡 Example:
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Dell users → Dell Support
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HP users → HP Support
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Lenovo users → Lenovo Support
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ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte → check the official motherboard support page.
Method 2: Use Manufacturer Update Tools
Most major brands provide utilities that automatically check for BIOS updates:
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Dell → SupportAssist
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HP → HP Support Assistant
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Lenovo → Lenovo Vantage
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ASUS → MyASUS
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MSI → Live Update
These tools make the process easier and reduce the risk of downloading the wrong file.
Method 3: Windows Update (Rare)
In some cases, BIOS updates may appear in Windows Update as a “firmware update.”
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Go to Settings > Windows Update.
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Check if any firmware updates are listed.
Step 3: Decide Whether to Update
Ask yourself:
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Is my PC working fine?
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Do I need new hardware support?
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Are there critical security fixes in the update notes?
👉 If everything runs smoothly, updating BIOS may not be necessary. Only update if there’s a clear benefit.
Safety Tips Before Updating BIOS
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Back up important files — even though BIOS updates don’t usually affect data, it’s better to be safe.
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Connect to stable power (use AC power for laptops).
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Don’t interrupt the update — shutting down during a BIOS update can brick your PC.
Step 4: How to Update BIOS (Optional Overview)
If you find an update and decide to proceed:
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Download the BIOS update file from the manufacturer’s website.
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Follow their instructions (some updates run in Windows, others require USB boot).
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Restart and let the update finish.
⚠️ Each manufacturer has a different process, so always read the official documentation.
Comparison Table: Ways to Check BIOS Version
| Method | Tool Needed | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| System Information | Built-in | Easy | Beginners |
| Command Prompt | Built-in | Easy | Quick check |
| PowerShell | Built-in | Easy | Advanced users |
| BIOS Setup | None | Medium | Direct verification |
Conclusion
Checking for a BIOS update in Windows 11 is easier than most people think. By first finding your current version and then comparing it with the latest release on your manufacturer’s website, you’ll know whether an update is needed.
Remember: BIOS updates can improve performance and security, but they’re not always necessary. Only proceed if the update addresses an issue you’re facing or provides new hardware support.
FAQs About BIOS Updates on Windows 11
1. How do I know if my BIOS needs updating?
Check your manufacturer’s website — if a newer version with fixes or improvements exists, you might benefit from updating.
2. Can BIOS be updated automatically in Windows 11?
Yes, sometimes through Windows Update or manufacturer utilities like Dell SupportAssist.
3. Is updating BIOS risky?
If interrupted, yes. But if done correctly following official steps, it’s safe.
4. How long does a BIOS update take?
Usually 5–10 minutes. Do not turn off your PC during the process.
5. Will a BIOS update delete my files?
No, BIOS updates only affect firmware. Your files remain untouched.