In Desktop’s/Laptop, BIOS is firmware that performs hardware initialization at bootup and offers runtime services for programs and operating systems (power-on start-up). BIOS functions as a catalyst for PC functionality action. The BIOS firmware is pre-installed on the system board of an IBM PC or IBM PC equivalent, and it is also present in UEFI-based systems. You can access BIOS using keys like F10, F2, F12, F1, or DEL. You have to hold these keys after some instance of loading (Pressing the Power Button). Power-On Self Test, or POST, is a procedure that BIOS performs each time you turn on your computer to check that all the linked devices are functioning properly and are located where they should be. An error screen or a string of beep codes will appear if BIOS detects any issues, essentially alerting you that something is wrong.
Fundamental Services of BIOS:
- POST: POST checks your PC’s hardware and ensures that nothing is out of order and that your operating system is error-free. POST checks everything from your keyboard and disc drive to your computer’s RAM speed and integrated ports. If everything is in order, POST will continue as usual and your PC will boot normally. If an error is detected, BIOS will generate an error message, which may take the form of displayed text or a series of error-indicating beeps. These beeps are always signals for specific messages, so if you get this result, you should investigate what it means for your computer’s hardware.
- CMOS setup: Within its CMOS, your computer stores all low-level settings such as system time and hardware configuration. This means that any changes you make to the structure of your BIOS are saved on a special memory chip known as the Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor, or CMOS. The CMOS setup is in charge of configuring your password, time, and date.
- Bootstrap loader: The bootstrap loader is a program that lives within your computer’s EPROM or ROM and is tasked with reading your PC’s hard drive boot sector in order to complete the operating system load. The bootstrap loader activates the POST and then loads Windows 10 into memory when you restart your computer. UEFI, or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, has replaced the bootstrap loader in newer PCs.
Steps to Open BIOS Settings in Various Company Devices:
- Acer: F2 or DEL
- ASUS: F2 for all PCs, F2 or DEL for motherboards
- Dell: F2 or F12
- HP: ESC or F10
- Lenovo: F2 or Fn + F2
- Lenovo (Desktops): F1
- Lenovo (ThinkPads): Enter + F1.
- MSI: DEL for motherboards and PCs
- Microsoft Surface Tablets: Press and hold the volume up button.
- Origin PC: F2
- Samsung: F2
- Sony: F1, F2, or F3
- Toshiba: F2
BIOS Drivers:
BIOS drivers are the numerous programs that are stored in your computer’s numerous memory chips. These low-level drivers are used to boot your system and prompt your PC’s basic operational controls.
Caution:
It’s important to note that navigating this interface can differ slightly from computer to computer, especially if you have a newer machine that uses a Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, or UEFI (which, despite being more capable than its older sibling, is still often referred to as BIOS). So, while we can’t tell you exactly what to click on, the instructions below should get you in the right ballpark. Installing (or “flashing”) a new BIOS is riskier than updating a simple Windows program, and if something goes wrong, you could brick your computer.
Methods To Update BIOS:
Simple Level Method (Windows Update):
Some manufacturers, such as HP, will provide BIOS updates via their own software update utilities. This makes updating much easier because you don’t have to enter the BIOS setup before running the update. Others, such as Acer, will necessitate the downloading of an EXE file from the manufacturer’s website. Instead of rebooting your computer, simply double-click the update program, and it will perform the reboot and update process for you. In any case, you should still enter the BIOS setup before running the update to make a note of any settings you want to keep. Once the process is complete, and you’ve made any necessary settings changes, you can resume using your computer as usual, with whatever improvements or fixes the BIOS update provided.
Intermediate Level Method (Download the Update):
Navigate to the Support page for the manufacturer of your PC, such as Dell, HP, or Lenovo. Then, look for the support page for your specific PC by searching for the model number or serial number, which is usually located somewhere on the device. (If you built your own PC, look for the motherboard manufacturer, such as Asus, Gigabyte, or MSI.) When you get to the Support page, look for a section for downloads or drivers.
Go there and look for BIOS or UEFI updates.
Advance Level Method (Format a Flash Drive):
Many PCs (especially older ones) will require you to format a flash drive, copy the new BIOS file to it, and reboot your computer while pressing a key to enter the BIOS setup (frequently Delete, F2, or another key you’ll see on-screen at boot). Once inside the BIOS, make a note of any previous changes you’ve made, as an update will typically reset your system to the default settings. If you need to remember your setup, take photos of each category. Then, look for the option to update your firmware, and you’ll be able to use the file on your flash drive to run the update utility.
If you interrupt the process or turn off your computer during this time, your computer may become unusable.