At one point in time, the topic of flashing BIOS was one that left many PC users worried because if done incorrectly, it could leave a motherboard completely useless. This is still true to this day; however, flashing BIOS has become considerably easier. In the past, it required the download of the proper BIOS file, getting the correct CMOS chip software for flashing, going into DOS mode, punching in the proper commands and then waiting. The waiting would result in either success or a completely useless motherboard.
What is BIOS?
BIOS stands for basic input/output system. This means that it is the absolute first program that runs when a computer is booted up. The program checks over all the hardware — memory, visual cards, HD and others — to ensure that they are running smoothly and effectively. If there is an error, the BIOS will alert the user.
Why Flash BIOS?
In simple term, flashing the BIOS simply means that one is upgrading the BIOS. The question that comes up is: why? With any software, there are updates. These updates make the software run more effectively, work quicker and all around function properly. Therefore, flashing BIOS is a smart move because it allows the company to provide effective updates to make the computer run smoother. Is it necessary? No. However, because the risks of it are no longer serious, there’s no reason it shouldn’t be done.
How to Flash BIOS?
Flashing BIOS is only dangerous if the power cuts out or the computer reboots in the middle of an update. If none of this happens, there is nothing to worry about. Flashing the BIOS is done by following these steps:
- Download and burn to a CD some time of BIOS flashing software. A good one to use can be found on BootDisk.com called the “DR. DOS disk for BIOS flashing” file. Take this and burn it to the CD.
- Find out the maker and model of the motherboard. This needs to be exact because you’ll download the update right from the manufacturers website. Burn these to another clean CD.
- Insert the first CD and have the computer boot from the CD. This will lead to the DOS.
- Remove the boot CD and then insert the BIOS update CD. Now that DOS is there, it won’t disappear with the removal of the boot CD.
- Type in the filename of the executable file to begin the flashing.
- When asked to save a copy of your BIOS, save it to the C drive or another hard drive.
- Hit enter of F to begin the flashing and then wait. If it is a success or a failure, it will let you know. A success means that you have updated your BIOS. It’ll prompt you to restart the computer in which case it will successfully be updated.
A single word of warning is that the computer cannot be turned off during the update. This means it is imperative that the power supply is secure and that there are no concerns of it cutting out. If it cuts out during the flashing, the BIOS files could become corrupted which would result in a failed motherboard.
