How to Install BIOS Upgrades - CompTIA A+ 220-801: 1.1

            

ROM BIOS firmware on a Baby AT motherboard 

Firmware Upgrades

• Non volatile memory and software
• Older style ROMS
• Newer style flash memory
• Computer BIOS, video adapter firmware, game console, ect.
• Improve performance, fix bugs
• Not Usually part of a normal maintenance process
• Upgrade for specific reason

Identify Current BIOS version

• May appear when system starts 
• Can be difficult to catch  
• Easier to look in System Information (msinfo32)
• Version and date details
•  Compare the current to existing
• An upgrade may not be available
• If possible, get a copy of the current version
• Always good to have a back up plan. 

Before Upgrading

• Read the documentation
• Some BIOS updates are bland
• Others are full of new features
• Check for OS prerequisites
• Locate a reliable power source
• Laptop: Connect to AC power and have a full battery
• Desktop: Use a UPS, if possible

Run the upgrade program

• Really-old BIOS upgrades may require a boot disk
• Floppy or optical media
• Most modern upgrades run as an executable
• Close all of your other applications before running
• Most upgrade apps will check for prerequisites
• Don't rely on this
• Requires a reboot
• Save your documents!