BIOS Updates

 

BIOS Updates

 

Introduction to BIOS

BIOS, also called System Setup is an acronym for Basic Input or Output System. BIOS is firmware that is embedded on a small memory chip on the computer's system board or motherboard. It acts as an interface between the computer's hardware and the operating system. BIOS contains instructions that the computer uses to perform basic instructions such as whether to boot from a network or hard disk drive.

When a computer is turned on, BIOS activates all the basic hardware that is required to boot the operating system including but not limited to:

Chipset

Processor and cache

System memory or RAM

Video and audio controllers

Keyboard and mouse

Internal disk drives

Network controllers

Internal expansion cards

To access the BIOS or System Setup on Dell computers:

Press F2 key several times at the Dell logo screen during startup.

Or, press F12 key several times at the Dell logo screen during startup, and select BIOS Setup or System Setup from the menu.

NOTE: BIOS interface may differ between different Dell computers. To learn more about navigating the BIOS on your Dell computer, see the User Guide of your Dell computer.

WARNING: The BIOS interface is designed for advanced computer users. Changing certain settings could prevent the computer from completing the power on self-test (POST), prevent the operating system from loading, or a potential loss of data.

Cause

No cause information available.

Resolution

How to update the BIOS on a Dell computer

Dell recommends updating the BIOS as part of your scheduled update cycle. BIOS update can often fix problems, add features, or both to the BIOS. BIOS update contains feature enhancements or changes that help keep the system software current and compatible with other computer modules (hardware, firmware, drivers, and software). BIOS update also provides security updates and increased stability.

The BIOS on a computer has to be updated manually. Dell provides an easy-to-use self-installing BIOS update utility. Critical BIOS updates are also pushed through Windows Update.

WARNING: Ensure to back up your data before attempting to update the BIOS. Errors during a BIOS update may result in potential loss of data.

WARNING: Disconnect devices like external USB drives, printers, scanners before updating the BIOS on the computer.

WARNING: Dell laptop battery must be charged to at least 10% before you begin the BIOS update. Dell recommends running the laptop on AC power before proceeding with the update process.

NOTE: You must be logged in as an administrator to install the BIOS update on your Dell computer.

NOTE: You must be logged in as an administrator to download and install Dell SupportAssist app on your Dell computer.

Browse to the Dell Drivers & downloads page.

Identify your Dell product.

Click Download & Install SupportAssist to auto-detect your Dell product. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Dell SupportAssist. For more information, see the Dell knowledge base article Dell SupportAssist (formerly Dell System Detect): Overview and Common Questions.

Or, enter the Service Tag, Express Service Code, or the Serial number of the Dell product and click Search.

Or, click Browse all products to manually select your Dell product from the catalog.

Select the Operating System that is installed on the computer.

Under Category, select BIOS.

Locate the latest System BIOS.

Click Download and save the file to your computer.

Using File Explorer (also known as Windows Explorer), browse to the location where the downloaded file was saved.

Double-click the downloaded BIOS setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.