Updating the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is often a necessary process that helps to maintain the proper functioning of our computers. For example, updating BIOS often fixes problems, offers new features, or resolves compatibility issues. However, updating the BIOS is fairly risky and shouldn’t be entered into lightly. Unless you are experiencing major problems, you should not update the BIOS. When you update your BIOS, the old one is replaced with the new one, leaving your system inoperable if something goes wrong. You should also be aware that flashing or updating your BIOS can fry the motherboard if it is done incorrectly.
Fortunately, there is indeed a program that can scan your system and update your BIOS. In fact, using such a program is one of the safest options. Before pointing you to this tool, let’s first look at the general difficulties in updating the BIOS the manual way.
First, you must identify the BIOS your computer has onboard.
- In Windows Vista, you can find this information by going to the Control Panel, choosing Performance Information and Tools, clicking Advanced Tools, and then clicking View Advanced System Details in System Information. Finally, you’re in a System Information summary screen where you’ll see a list of details including your BIOS version and date.
- For earlier versions of Windows, go to Start>Programs>Accessories>System>System Information and find the Windows Report Tool under the Tools menu. Now, find Options>Collected Information and scroll to BIOS. Depending on your operating system, you may see a System Summary section instead of Windows Report Tool.
- BIOS details also usually appear on the screen during boot up. Press your systems BIOS “hot key” such as “F1,” “F2,” or “F8.” This key varies depending on your computer model; your computer screen usually displays the key you should press during boot up. You should be able to see the manufacturer, version, and date of your BIOS.
Once you have located your system’s current BIOS information, your search begins. Start by checking your computer manufacturer’s Web site for updates for your specific model or go directly to the BIOS manufacturer. For example, if you have a Toshiba computer with Toshiba BIOS, head over to the Toshiba Web site’s Download center and search for your exact model. Likewise, if you have a motherboard with AMD BIOS, go to AMD’s Web site.
The instructions for updating your BIOS properly should be included on the manufacturer’s Web site as the process varies by model. Download the update to floppy disk or CD. You’ll boot from this disc when the time comes. But first, before updating the BIOS, back it up! Almost all BIOS update programs have a backup function built into them. If not, BIOS backup utilities (such as Uniflash) are available, though typically for advanced users.
Once you’ve found and downloaded the correct BIOS update for your exact BIOS chip, insert the disc with the update and reboot your computer. Follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Remember, this is risky. Any interruptions or mistakes could lead to a complete failure!
Fortunately, third-party software utilities exist for checking and updating BIOS. One reputable scanner for updating BIOS is http://biosagentplus.com/ which is a product from Phoenix Technologies (which is licensed by over 80% of computer manufacturers). Use this tool instead; it’s much safer.

BIOS stands for Basic Input Output System. Put simply, BIOS refers to the software that is built in to a computer and the capabilities that a computer has without accessing any additional programs or applications. On an average personal computer, the BIOS includes the data and code that is programmed in to control the keyboard, screen, disk drives and other pre-set and inclusive functions. BIOS refers to the basic list of instructions that a computer uses to begin its operations.
The computer code to start hardware is called the Basic Input Output System (BIOS). It also pulls double duty: the BIOS acts as the core set of rules to execute software. The rules apply to user installed software, like games, and even the entire operating system, like Windows. The BIOS is located on a piece of memory hardware inside the computer, but not on the hard drive. In the past, this piece of memory was a ROM (Read Only Memory) chip attached to the processor. Today, computer systems hold the BIOS on readable and writable flash memory chips.