An HP laptop installs a BIOS update when Windows, HP Support Assistant, or HP Sure Start delivers firmware fixes or recovery tasks.
If your notebook pauses at startup and shows a firmware screen, it can feel alarming. The good news: HP systems usually run this process to keep low-level code safe and stable. This guide explains the common triggers, what you should do during the update, how to check what changed, and the safe ways to stop automatic firmware updates if you prefer manual control.
What A BIOS Update Is And Why It Pops Up
BIOS (or UEFI on newer models) is the tiny program that starts hardware before Windows loads. Updates fix bugs, plug security gaps, add device support, and improve reliability. HP distributes these fixes through three main paths:
- HP Support Assistant schedules and installs vendor updates inside Windows.
- Windows Update can deliver firmware packages that the laptop applies at the next restart.
- HP Sure Start repairs corrupted firmware by restoring a clean backup without user input.
Any of the three can trigger the “HP BIOS Update” or “Updating System BIOS” screen at boot. That screen often includes a progress bar and a warning not to power off.
Why Your HP Laptop Runs A BIOS Update At Startup
HP Support Assistant Scheduled It
Many consumer and business models ship with HP Support Assistant set to install vendor updates. When a new firmware SoftPaq is available for your exact model, the utility downloads it and sets a one-time task. On the next reboot, the system flashes the new image, then restarts. HP’s own help pages show how the tool offers “BIOS” entries alongside driver updates and lets you switch from auto to “Notify.”
Windows Update Pushed A Firmware Package
Firmware can arrive via Windows Update through the “Firmware” category and appears in Update history as a “System” entry or a package from the BIOS vendor (such as Insyde). Microsoft documents this delivery path for device makers and IT admins. You might see the restart prompt with a note that updates are pending; the actual flash happens during the reboot stage.
HP Sure Start Repaired The Firmware
Many HP business laptops include an embedded controller that guards the BIOS. If it detects tampering or corruption, HP Sure Start restores a known-good copy automatically. You might see messaging like “Protected by HP Sure Start” or a recovery notice. In this case the laptop is not upgrading to a new version; it is healing itself to match the factory-approved code saved in an isolated chip.
A Previous Update Was Staged
Sometimes a flash package was downloaded earlier and set to run at the next safe moment (on AC power, at a cold boot, or after Windows closes). If you postponed reboots for a while, the process may show up on the first restart you finally allow.
What You Should Do During The Update
- Keep the power adapter plugged in. Power loss during a flash is the main risk.
- Let the progress finish. Interrupting mid-flash can brick the board. If the screen looks stuck, give it time. Many updates run for 2–10 minutes; some take longer.
- Leave external devices connected only if required. USB docks or storage can wait; remove them unless the update steps call for them.
- Have your BitLocker recovery key handy on business models. Firmware changes can prompt Windows to request the key on next boot if the system trips a device-security check. Most users sign in without prompts, but keeping the key is smart.
How To Check What Just Updated
See The Version Inside BIOS Setup
Reboot and press F10 repeatedly to open BIOS Setup. Look for fields named BIOS Version or System BIOS. Note the version string and date.
Check Windows Update History
In Windows, go to Settings > Windows Update > Update history. Expand Driver updates or Quality updates and look for entries labeled Firmware, System, or packages from your BIOS vendor. The date shown helps match the reboot when the flash occurred.
Review HP Support Assistant
Open HP Support Assistant, select your device, then open the Updates area. You’ll see past updates, including BIOS SoftPaq numbers and install dates.
Safe Ways To Stop Automatic BIOS Updates
Some users prefer to install firmware only after reading release notes or testing builds. Here are vendor-friendly methods that still keep your system healthy.
Switch HP Support Assistant To Notify
- Open HP Support Assistant.
- Select Settings (gear icon).
- Under Automatic updates, change to Notify for available updates.
- When a new BIOS appears, read the summary and decide when to install.
Pause A Specific Firmware In Windows Update
You can hide a single firmware item so it stops returning after every scan. Microsoft’s guidance for device firmware delivery explains the channel, and admins often use the “Show or Hide Updates” troubleshooter to suppress one problematic package. If you later want that firmware, unhide it and install once you’re ready.
Update Manually From HP’s Support Page
- Visit your model’s Software and drivers page.
- Download the current BIOS SoftPaq for your exact SKU.
- Close apps, connect AC power, then run the installer and follow prompts.
- Reboot when asked and let the flash complete.
When An Update Loops Or Fails
A healthy flash finishes and restarts Windows. If the laptop reboots back into a firmware screen, or shows a Sure Start message over and over, use these steps.
Start With A Full Power Reset
- Shut down the laptop.
- Unplug AC and remove the battery if it’s removable.
- Hold the power button for 15 seconds.
- Reconnect power and try again.
Run HP BIOS Recovery
Many models include a built-in recovery routine. With the system off, hold Windows + B, then press power and keep holding the keys for several seconds. The laptop should load a recovery image and restore the firmware. If that fails, HP provides steps to create a recovery USB on another PC.
Reflash The Correct Version
Grab the exact BIOS for your model and board revision from HP’s support page. Install from Windows or from the BIOS F10 update tool. Avoid mixing consumer and business packages or flashing a file meant for a different board ID.
Risks, Myths, And Smart Precautions
Power Loss Is The Main Risk
A sudden shutdown mid-flash can corrupt firmware. Keep AC connected, and leave the lid open until the update completes. If you’re on a flaky outlet, move to a stable source first.
Sure Start Isn’t A Bug
On models with HP Sure Start, the embedded controller guards the firmware. When it detects unauthorized changes or bit-rot, it restores a clean copy. That short “recovery” message is a protection feature, not a random glitch.
Don’t Rush To Roll Back
Occasional issues do surface with fresh builds, but firmware rollbacks can carry risk if the package blocks downgrades or changes security fuses. If you need a prior version for a specific reason, download the vendor-approved older SoftPaq for your exact model and read its notes first.
Two Official References Worth Saving
You can see HP’s step-by-step update paths on its Updating the BIOS guide, including options through Device Manager and HP Support Assistant. Microsoft explains how device firmware updates flow through Windows Update, which is why some laptops flash the BIOS during restarts.
Fast Checks Before You Approve The Next Firmware
- Confirm your exact model and board ID. On the HP drivers page, match the full product number and platform.
- Read the release notes. Look for fixes related to stability, security, or hardware compatibility you care about.
- Back up data. A firmware flash doesn’t touch files, yet a backup is always wise before low-level changes.
- Keep the power adapter on. Many installers block the flash if AC is missing; don’t bypass that check.
Table: Common Triggers And What To Do
| Trigger | Clues You See | Action |
|---|---|---|
| HP Support Assistant | Update queued in the app; BIOS SoftPaq number listed | Let it finish, or switch to Notify and re-run at a better time |
| Windows Update Firmware | “System” or “Firmware” entry in Update history | Install now, or hide one item and update manually from HP |
| HP Sure Start Recovery | “Protected by HP Sure Start” or recovery loop | Run BIOS Recovery, then apply the matching SoftPaq |
Step-By-Step: Manual Update From HP
- Open your model’s HP Software and drivers page.
- Choose Windows version and expand the BIOS section.
- Download the latest SoftPaq that matches your board ID.
- Close apps, connect AC, and run the installer.
- When prompted, click Update and wait while the system reboots and flashes.
- Back in Windows, confirm the new version in System Information or BIOS Setup.
Step-By-Step: Stop Automatic Flashes While Staying Safe
Method 1: HP Support Assistant Settings
- Launch HP Support Assistant.
- Open Settings and set updates to Notify.
- Review each BIOS item manually and install during a planned window.
Method 2: Hide One Firmware Update In Windows
If a specific firmware keeps returning and causes trouble, hide just that package, install everything else, then fetch the correct BIOS from HP’s page and install it yourself later.
Method 3: Enterprise Tools (IT Only)
Admins can stage and pin versions with HP Client Management tools or scripts, then roll upgrades in maintenance windows. This avoids random surprises on employee laptops.
Troubleshooting Notes That Save Time
- Update Intel ME and chipset drivers first. Some firmware relies on these components.
- Remove overclock or tuning apps before flashing. They can interfere with reboot steps.
- Clear any pending Windows reboots and restart clean before you start a manual flash.
- Write down the current BIOS version before updating. If you must report a bug, support will ask for it.
Quick Recap And Safe Habits
That unexpected firmware screen usually means one of three things: a vendor-scheduled upgrade, a Windows-delivered package, or a self-repair. Let it finish while connected to AC, then confirm the version. If you want tighter control, set HP Support Assistant to notify and handle BIOS flashes manually during a planned window. Keep one or two official links handy for reference, and always back up before low-level changes.