To update your BIOS on Windows 11, first check your current version by pressing Windows logo key + R, typing msinfo32, and looking at BIOS Version/Date. On a laptop or brand-name desktop, the easiest way to update is through Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates, or your PC maker’s support app. On a custom-built PC, download the update from your motherboard maker’s website, copy it to a USB drive, and install it with the flash tool in the BIOS. Keep the PC plugged in and don’t turn it off while the update runs.
Applies to: Windows 11 PCs and laptops from Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, Acer, Microsoft Surface and others, and custom PCs with ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte or ASRock motherboards. Last reviewed October 7, 2026.
Should you update your BIOS?
The BIOS, or UEFI firmware on modern PCs, is the software that starts your computer before Windows loads. Updating it can fix bugs, close security holes and add support for newer processors or memory. But a failed update can stop a PC from starting, so update only when there’s a reason:
- The update fixes a security issue or a problem you’re having, such as crashes, sleep problems or USB devices not working.
- You’re installing a new processor that needs a newer BIOS.
- Your PC maker or Windows Update recommends it.
If your PC works well and the update notes don’t mention anything relevant to you, it’s fine to wait.
Step 1: Check your current BIOS version
- Press Windows logo key + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter.
- In System Summary, find BIOS Version/Date. Note it down.
- Also note System Manufacturer and System Model, or BaseBoard Manufacturer and BaseBoard Product on a custom PC. You need the exact model to find the right update.
Step 2: Prepare your PC
- Plug in the charger on a laptop. Most updates won’t start unless the battery is charged and the charger is connected.
- Suspend BitLocker. If your drive is encrypted, a BIOS update can trigger a BitLocker recovery screen. Search Start for Manage BitLocker and select Suspend protection. It turns back on automatically after a restart. Make sure you can find your recovery key at account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey just in case.
- Back up important files. A BIOS update doesn’t touch your files, but a backup protects you if something goes wrong.
- Close your apps and save your work.
Update the BIOS with Windows Update
Many PC makers, including Microsoft, Lenovo, HP and Dell, deliver BIOS updates through Windows Update.
- Open Settings > Windows Update.
- Select Advanced options > Optional updates.
- Expand Driver updates and look for an entry with Firmware or BIOS and your PC maker’s name.
- Select it, then select Download & install.
- Restart when asked. The PC may restart more than once and show a progress bar. Don’t turn it off.
Update the BIOS with your PC maker’s app
If Windows Update doesn’t offer one, your PC maker’s support app usually will:
- Dell: open Dell SupportAssist (or Dell Command Update on business PCs) and run a check for updates.
- HP: open HP Support Assistant and select Updates.
- Lenovo: open Lenovo Vantage and select System Update.
- ASUS laptops: open MyASUS and select System Update.
- Acer: open Acer Care Center and select Update.
Install any update labeled BIOS or firmware, then restart when asked. If you don’t have the app, go to your PC maker’s support website, enter your serial number or model, and download the BIOS update from the drivers page. Run the downloaded file in Windows and follow its prompts.
Update the BIOS on a custom-built PC
Motherboard makers provide BIOS files that you install from inside the BIOS itself.
- Go to your motherboard maker’s support site and find your exact board, for example ASUS TUF Gaming B650-Plus. Board revisions matter, so check the revision printed on the motherboard if there’s more than one.
- Download the newest BIOS from the BIOS or Support section and read the notes. Some updates must be installed in order.
- Extract the ZIP file and copy the BIOS file to the main folder of a USB flash drive formatted as FAT32.
- Restart into the BIOS. Open Settings > System > Recovery, select Restart now next to Advanced startup, then Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart.
- Open the flash tool. It’s called EZ Flash on ASUS, M-Flash on MSI, Q-Flash on Gigabyte and Instant Flash on ASRock.
- Select the file on the USB drive and confirm. The update takes a few minutes, and the PC restarts on its own.
Many recent boards also have a BIOS Flashback button on the back panel that updates the BIOS from a USB drive without a working processor or memory. Check your board’s manual for the exact file name it expects.
After the update
- Check the new version in msinfo32.
- Re-apply custom settings. Updates often reset the BIOS to defaults. On a custom PC, turn memory profiles (XMP or EXPO) back on and check the boot order.
- Confirm Secure Boot and TPM are on. Windows 11 needs them. Check Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Device security.
Troubleshooting
The update says the battery is too low
Connect the charger and let the battery charge to at least the level the installer asks for, usually 10 to 50 percent, then run it again.
The PC asks for a BitLocker recovery key after updating
Enter the key from your Microsoft account’s recovery key page. Next time, suspend BitLocker before updating.
Windows Update doesn’t show a BIOS update
Your PC maker may not deliver BIOS updates through Windows Update, or you already have the latest version. Check the maker’s support site.
The flash tool says the file isn’t valid
The file is for a different model or board revision, or the USB drive isn’t FAT32. Double-check the model, reformat the drive as FAT32, and copy the file again.
The PC won’t start after the update
Wait at least 10 minutes. Some updates restart several times with a black screen. If it still won’t start, use the board’s BIOS Flashback button, or contact your PC maker. Many laptops can recover the BIOS automatically from a backup copy.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to update the BIOS?
Yes, when you use the official update for your exact model and keep power connected. The risk comes from power loss during the update or using a file for the wrong model.
How long does a BIOS update take?
Usually 2 to 10 minutes, including restarts. Don’t interrupt it, even if the screen goes blank for a while.
Can I roll back a BIOS update?
Some PC makers allow it by installing an older version the same way. Others block downgrades for security reasons. Check the update notes.
How do I get into the BIOS without updating it?
Use the Advanced startup steps above, or press the setup key, often F2 or Delete, as the PC starts. See how to change BIOS settings in Windows 11.
Related: How to enable AVX support in Windows 11.
Related: How to enter BIOS on a Lenovo with Windows 11.
Related: how to enter BIOS on a Dell.
Related: how to enter BIOS on an MSI.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.