The BIOS or Basic Input/Output System is an essential component of any computer system. It is responsible for booting up the operating system and initializing all hardware components, including the motherboard, CPU, and RAM. Knowing the version of your BIOS is important because it determines what features and capabilities your computer has, and whether or not it is compatible with certain hardware upgrades.
How to Check the BIOS Version
Checking the BIOS version is a simple process that involves accessing the BIOS during startup and looking for the version information in the system settings. Here are seven easy steps to check the BIOS version:
- Start or restart your computer.
- Press the BIOS key during startup. The BIOS key varies depending on the manufacturer and model of your computer. Common keys include F2, F10, Del, and Esc. Check your computer documentation or search online to find the specific BIOS key for your computer.
- Once in the BIOS settings, look for a tab or menu labeled “System Information” or “Main.” The BIOS may vary in appearance depending on the manufacturer, but most BIOS versions have similar settings.
- Locate the BIOS version information. The version may be listed under “BIOS version,” “Firmware version,” or something similar.
- Take note of the BIOS version number.
- Exit the BIOS settings by selecting “Save Changes and Exit” or “Exit Without Saving Changes.”
- Your computer will now restart with the new BIOS settings.
Another way to check the BIOS version is through the DirectX Diagnostic Tool. Here’s how to check the BIOS version using DXDiag:
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “dxdiag” and click OK. This will open the DirectX Diagnostic Tool.
- Click on the “System” tab.
- Look for the BIOS version information under the “System Information” section. The version may be listed under “BIOS Version/Date.”
- Take note of the BIOS version number.
- Close the DirectX Diagnostic Tool.
FAQ
Q: Why is it important to check the BIOS version?
A: The BIOS version determines what features and capabilities your computer has, and whether or not it is compatible with certain hardware upgrades. For example, if you’re planning on upgrading your RAM, you need to make sure that the BIOS version is compatible with the new RAM modules. Knowing the BIOS version also helps in troubleshooting hardware issues and updating the BIOS if necessary.
Q: How do I update my BIOS version?
A: Updating the BIOS can be a complicated process and should only be done if necessary. Before updating the BIOS, make sure to back up all important files and documents. To update the BIOS, follow these steps:
- Visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest BIOS version.
- Read the instructions carefully and make sure you download the correct BIOS version for your computer model and BIOS version.
- Copy the BIOS update file to a USB drive or CD/DVD.
- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings by pressing the BIOS key during startup.
- Locate the BIOS update option. The option may be listed under “System Information,” “Main,” or something similar.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to update the BIOS with the new file.
- After the update is complete, restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings to verify the new BIOS version.
How to Enter BIOS on Windows 10
To enter the BIOS on Windows 10, you need to follow these steps:
- Click on the Start menu and select “Settings.”
- Click on “Update & Security.”
- Select “Recovery” from the left-hand menu.
- Under “Advanced startup,” click on “Restart now.”
- Once your computer has restarted, select “Troubleshoot.”
- Select “Advanced options.”
- Click on “UEFI Firmware Settings.”
- Click on “Restart.”
Conclusion
Checking the BIOS version is an important process that should not be overlooked. It helps you to ensure that your computer is running at its optimal level and is compatible with any hardware upgrades you want to perform. Understanding how to enter the BIOS and check the version number is a crucial part of computer maintenance, and can save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run.
Remember, updating the BIOS should only be done if it is necessary, and should be done with caution. If you’re unsure about how to update your BIOS, seek advice from a qualified technician.
Video Tutorial
Here’s a helpful video tutorial on how to check the BIOS version:
