To update the BIOS, find your exact motherboard model, download the correct BIOS file from the manufacturer’s support page, and flash it using the board’s built-in flashing tool, ideally with your current, working CPU still installed. Never interrupt the process once it starts.
- Update the BIOS with your current CPU still installed, not the new one.
- Download the exact file for your exact motherboard model.
- Never power off or interrupt the flash once it starts.
- Some boards support flashing without a CPU installed at all.
When You Need This
A BIOS update is usually needed when installing a CPU released after your motherboard shipped. Some boards won’t even boot with an unsupported CPU until the BIOS is updated, which is why doing it with your current CPU first matters. See CPU compatible with motherboard to check whether your upgrade needs this step.
Step by Step
1. Find your exact motherboard model
Check the board itself, its box, or use a system information tool in Windows to confirm the precise model and revision.
2. Download the correct BIOS file
Go to your motherboard maker’s support page, search for your exact model, and download the BIOS file matching the CPU generation you’re installing. Double-check the file matches your board’s revision number if it has one.
3. Copy it to a USB drive
Most boards flash from a FAT32-formatted USB drive. Extract the download if it’s zipped, and place the BIOS file at the root of the drive.
4. Flash using the built-in tool
Enter the BIOS and look for a flashing utility, often named EZ Flash on ASUS boards, Q-Flash on Gigabyte, or M-Flash on MSI. Select the file from your USB drive and confirm.
5. Let it finish completely
The process usually takes a few minutes. Don’t power off, reset, or remove the USB drive until it confirms completion and the system restarts on its own.
Warning: interrupting a BIOS flash, through a power cut or manually restarting, can leave the motherboard unable to boot at all. Use a UPS if you’re concerned about power stability, and never skip this precaution.
After Updating
Once the new CPU is installed, run a CPU stress test to confirm everything is stable.
Confirm the new BIOS version in the main BIOS screen, then proceed with installing the new CPU following how to upgrade a CPU.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update the BIOS with a new, unsupported CPU already installed?
Not if the board won’t boot with it. That’s exactly why updating with your current, working CPU first is the safer order.
Is flashing the BIOS risky?
It carries some risk if interrupted, but following the steps carefully and not interrupting the process makes it a routine, low-risk task.
Do all motherboards support flashing without a CPU?
Some higher-end boards include a “BIOS Flashback” feature that lets you flash from just the USB port and power supply, without any CPU or RAM installed. Check your board’s manual.
How long does a BIOS update take?
Typically a few minutes, though it varies by motherboard and file size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update the BIOS with a new, unsupported CPU already installed?
Not if the board won’t boot with it. That’s exactly why updating with your current, working CPU first is the safer order.
Is flashing the BIOS risky?
It carries some risk if interrupted, but following the steps carefully and not interrupting the process makes it a routine, low-risk task.
Do all motherboards support flashing without a CPU?
Some higher-end boards include a “BIOS Flashback” feature that lets you flash from just the USB port and power supply, without any CPU or RAM installed. Check your board’s manual.
How long does a BIOS update take?
Typically a few minutes, though it varies by motherboard and file size.
