Updating your computer hardware is generally a straightforward task. However, one part of your computer -- the motherboard -- should not be updated unless absolutely necessary. Updating the motherboard by flashing the BIOS should only be done as a last resort; if this task is performed incorrectly, it could permanently disable your motherboard. BIOS updates can be obtained free of charge by navigating to your motherboard manufacturer's website.
Instructions
1. Determine your computer's make and model by referring to the documentation supplied by the manufacturer. This information is not available using Windows' built-in utilities such as Device Manager. You must obtain the information from the owner's manual.
2. Open a Web browser and navigate to your motherboard manufacturer's website. Go to the "Support" tab and and then follow the link to the "Drivers" section. Locate your motherboard on the product list and download the most recent BIOS update available. Choose "Save" to save the driver to your hard drive.
3. Insert a floppy disk in your computer. Open Windows Explorer and locate the BIOS file you just downloaded. Right-click on the file and choose "Copy." Right-click on the drive letter representing your floppy drive (usually "A:") and choose "Paste." The new BIOS file should be copied to the floppy disk.
4. Restart your computer. Access your motherboard's main menu at bootup by pressing either "F1," "F10" or the "Delete" key. The specific key will vary depending on your motherboard and BIOS; instructions will usually appear on the motherboard splash screen when you boot your computer.
5. Select the "Upgrade BIOS" option and press the "Enter" key. This option is usually found on the main menu that appears when you access the motherboard options. The computer should automatically detect the BIOS file found on your floppy disk.
6. Press the "Y" key if any on-screen prompts ask you to confirm that you want to upgrade the BIOS.
7. Reboot your computer once the BIOS has been flashed. Access the motherboard menu screen using the same method as before. Choose "Load Optimized Defaults" and press the "F10" key to save your settings. The BIOS has now been flashed and optimized. Allow the computer to continue booting
Tags: your computer, your motherboard, BIOS file, floppy disk, been flashed