A BIOS update runs to patch security flaws, fix bugs, or add hardware compatibility—often delivered by Windows Update or the maker’s tool.
If your screen says firmware is flashing, it can feel tense. Relax—this maintenance task keeps the firmware that starts your PC in good shape. In many models, updates arrive from Windows or a brand utility, then apply on the next reboot. Below, you’ll see why it happens, how to tell it’s legit, and the right steps to stay safe while it runs safely.
Laptop BIOS Updating Explained: Causes And Safety
The system firmware (often called UEFI today) initializes your board, storage, and CPU before Windows loads. Makers ship updates to fix stability issues, close security gaps, and add compatibility for new parts such as drives. On modern Windows devices, these updates can arrive the same way driver packages do and are applied by the UEFI capsule process during restart (UEFI firmware update platform).
Why Your Laptop Starts A BIOS Update: Common Causes
Security Fixes And CPU Microcode
Vendors release firmware with mitigations for hardware issues and other vulnerabilities. Microcode packages for processors also land in these releases, improving reliability and stability across workloads.
Stability Improvements And Bug Fixes
Boards ship with conservative settings and early code. Field reports surface quirks: resume failures, fan curves, boot loops, or storage detection problems. A maintenance release can solve those glitches and make boot more reliable.
New Hardware Compatibility Or Feature Enablement
New SSDs, memory kits, and docking gear sometimes need updated initialization code. A release can expand device tables, tweak power delivery, or enable features that weren’t ready at launch.
How Updates Arrive On Windows PCs
Windows Update Firmware Capsules
On many devices, firmware arrives as a driver package through Windows, then the restart stage passes it to the UEFI capsule mechanism so your firmware can flash itself before booting the OS. Microsoft documents this delivery path and notes partners can ship these safely via the built-in channel. If your vendor uses this route, you’ll see the item listed as “System Firmware” in update history.
OEM Tools And Utilities
Dell, HP, Lenovo, and others ship management apps that schedule firmware maintenance during a reboot. Examples include Dell Command | Update, HP’s Assistant app, Lenovo Vantage, or a model-specific flash utility, and release notes. A vendor guide such as the Dell BIOS and UEFI update guide shows the model-specific steps and power requirements.
Is It Safe? Power, Patience, And Precautions
Interrupting a flash can corrupt the firmware image and prevent boot. Keep the charger connected, leave the lid open, and wait for the progress bar to finish. Let the process complete without key presses or power taps.
If the update was staged by Windows or your vendor’s app, it’s generally the right one for your model. Avoid flashing files meant for another board revision. If you downloaded a file yourself, verify the exact model and version before you proceed.
How To Tell A Legitimate Firmware Update
Check The Source
Legit packages come either through Windows or your brand’s driver page or utility. Pop-ups from random websites or drivers signed by unknown publishers are red flags.
Check The Version And Notes
Find your current version, then read the release notes from your maker. That tells you what changed and whether the update targets your issues or security posture.
How To Check Your Current Version (Windows)
Use PowerShell to read the installed version and release date:
Get-CimInstance -ClassName Win32_BIOS | Select-Object SMBIOSBIOSVersion, ReleaseDateThe first field shows the vendor’s version string; the second shows when that build was issued.
What To Do While It’s Updating
- Plug in the AC adapter and keep the battery above 30%.
- Don’t close the lid, press keys, or hold the power button.
- Let the system cycle through reboots until Windows returns.
- If the screen stays black for several minutes, wait—some stages run without on-screen text.
Can You Postpone Or Skip A Firmware Flash?
Yes, in many cases you can defer the restart that applies a staged package. You can also pause Windows updates for a short window if you’re traveling. Brand tools usually let you snooze maintenance until you’re on stable power and time permits safely. Skipping every release long-term isn’t wise, because security and stability fixes accumulate.
When You Should Update Manually
If you face boot loops, storage not detected, erratic fans, or crashes tied to sleep/wake, check your maker’s download page for a maintenance release that mentions those symptoms. If your device vendor flags a security advisory for firmware, schedule the update soon, connect power, and let it finish without interruption.
Step-By-Step: Verify, Stage, And Update Safely
1) Verify Your Version
Run the PowerShell command shown above and note the version string.
2) Read The Release Notes
Visit your model’s driver page and read the changes. Look for items tied to your symptoms or security advisories.
3) Prepare Power And Time
Connect the charger. Close all apps. Budget fifteen minutes without touching the keyboard or lid.
4) Stage The Package
Either install the vendor’s utility and check for updates, or accept the pending “System Firmware” item in Windows. The system will schedule the flashing step for the next reboot.
5) Let It Reboot And Finish
Leave the device idle while the progress bar moves. It may reboot more than once. When Windows returns, repeat the version check to confirm the new build.
How To Reduce Surprises Next Time
- Pick a maintenance window monthly and install updates on power.
- Enable your brand’s utility for alerts and release notes.
- Skim update history after Windows restarts so you know what changed.
Recovery Paths If Something Goes Wrong
Automatic Rollback Or Dual ROM
Many boards keep a backup image or can roll back if flashing fails. If your screen says it’s recovering firmware, let it run. Power loss is the most common trigger.
USB Recovery
Some vendors provide a recovery image you can place on a USB stick to restore the firmware. You’ll need the exact file for your model and clear steps from the maker site.
Service Repair
If the device won’t post after a failed flash, contact the maker. Official service channels can reprogram the chip on bench gear.
Examples Of Official Guidance You Can Trust
You can read Microsoft’s page on the UEFI firmware update platform and a vendor’s how-to like the Dell BIOS and UEFI update guide for model-specific steps.
Quick Checks Without The Fluff
Confirm It Came From Windows
Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history. Look under “Other updates” or “Firmware.” You’ll see the package name and date.
See Release Notes
Open your maker’s driver page for the exact model and read the “Fixes and enhancements” section for the latest firmware entry.
Pause Until You’re Ready
Use the “Pause updates” option in Windows or snooze inside your brand’s utility, then pick a time with stable power and a desk that won’t get bumped.
Final Take: Safe, Boring Maintenance
Firmware maintenance shouldn’t be scary. Keep power connected, use official channels, and give the process time. In return, you get better stability, security patches, and broader device compatibility without lifting more than a finger.
Quick Reference: Triggers And Safe Responses
The table below compresses common reasons you see a firmware flash with clear next steps.
| Trigger | What It Means | What You Should Do |
|---|---|---|
| Windows lists “System Firmware” | A vendor package is staged by Windows | Stay on AC power; let the reboot finish |
| Vendor app prompts for firmware | Brand utility found a new release | Read notes, then schedule on charger |
| Maker site flags a security fix | Update mitigates a vulnerability | Install soon, avoid power loss |