How to Update BIOS on Windows 11 (Safely)

A BIOS (UEFI firmware) update can fix bugs, improve stability, add support for new processors or memory, and patch security vulnerabilities. On Windows 11, most PCs can update firmware through Windows Update or the manufacturer’s app, and custom-built desktops use a USB flash tool built into the BIOS. Updating is usually safe, but an interruption can make a PC unbootable, so this guide covers the safest method for each type of computer and the precautions to take. Firmware updates also matter for the 2026 Secure Boot certificate change, which is one reason not to switch Secure Boot off in Windows 11 as a workaround.

Quick Answer

Find your current BIOS version in System Information (press Windows + R, type msinfo32). Then install the newer version from Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates, your PC maker’s update app, or the support page for your exact model. Keep the PC plugged in and don’t turn it off during the update. A firmware update can switch security options back to defaults, so afterward check msinfo32 and, if needed, enable Secure Boot again on Windows 11.

Before You Update

• Only update if needed: for a fix you’re experiencing, a security advisory, or new hardware support. If your PC works well, there’s little benefit to updating immediately.
• Plug in the charger and make sure a laptop battery is above 20% (many updaters require it).
• Suspend BitLocker: go to Control Panel > BitLocker Drive Encryption > Suspend protection, or have your recovery key ready. Many vendor updaters suspend it automatically.
• Back up important files.
• Use only the file for your exact model. A wrong BIOS file can brick the motherboard.

Step 1: Check Your Current BIOS Version

1. Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter.
2. In System Summary, note BIOS Version/Date, System Manufacturer, and System Model (or BaseBoard Product for custom desktops).

Or run wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion in Command Prompt (on systems that still include WMIC).

Method 1: Windows Update

1. Open Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates.
2. Expand Driver updates and look for a Firmware or System entry from your PC maker.
3. Check it, click Download & install, and restart when prompted. The update runs during restart.

Method 2: Your PC Maker’s Update App (Laptops and Brand-Name Desktops)

• Dell: Dell Command | Update or SupportAssist.
• HP: HP Support Assistant.
• Lenovo: Lenovo Vantage (or Lenovo System Update for ThinkPads).
• ASUS, Acer, MSI, and others: their support apps or website downloads.

Open the app, check for updates, and install the BIOS/firmware update. Alternatively, go to the maker’s support site, enter your model or serial number, download the BIOS update for Windows, and run it.

Method 3: Flash from USB in the BIOS (Custom-Built Desktops)

1. Go to your motherboard maker’s support page, search for the exact model (from BaseBoard Product), and download the latest BIOS file. Read the release notes.
2. Extract the file to a FAT32-formatted USB flash drive.
3. Restart and enter BIOS/UEFI (often Delete or F2 at startup). See our guide to getting into BIOS on Windows 11.
4. Open the built-in flash utility (names vary, such as EZ Flash, Q-Flash, M-Flash, or Instant Flash), select the file, and start the update.
5. Wait until it finishes and the PC restarts. Don’t turn it off, even if the screen goes blank for a while.

Some motherboards also support BIOS Flashback, which updates from USB without a CPU or RAM installed.

After Updating

• Recheck BIOS Version/Date in msinfo32.
• Updates can reset settings: re-enable XMP/EXPO memory profiles, virtualization, Secure Boot, or boot order if needed.
• Resume BitLocker protection if you suspended it.

First, check your current BIOS version.

Troubleshooting

• Update fails to start: run it as administrator, connect the charger, and check the battery level.
• BitLocker recovery screen after update: enter your recovery key from aka.ms/myrecoverykey.
• PC won’t boot after an interrupted update: many PCs have BIOS recovery (for example, holding a key combination during power-on or a Flashback button). Contact the manufacturer’s support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to update the BIOS?

Yes, when you use the official file for your model and don’t interrupt the process.

Can I roll back a BIOS update?

Some manufacturers allow it; others block downgrades for security. Check the support page before updating.

Summary

1. Check your BIOS version and model in msinfo32.
2. Update through Windows Update, the maker’s app, or the model’s support page.
3. For custom desktops, flash from a FAT32 USB in the BIOS utility.
4. Keep the PC powered, suspend BitLocker, and don’t interrupt the update.

Kermit Matthews

Kermit Matthews runs Live2Tech from just outside Philadelphia. He started on a university help desk, spent years as the IT person for small businesses, and has been writing tech guides full time since 2020. Each guide is checked on a device he owns, and re-checked when a menu moves. More about Kermit.