What Is HP BIOS Update
The BIOS is essential firmware located on the motherboard that initializes the computer. It also facilitates communication between the operating system and hardware components such as the CPU, RAM, and storage devices.
An HP BIOS update is a firmware upgrade for HP laptops/desktops to improve system stability, compatibility, and security.
How to Check Your Current HP BIOS Version
Checking the computer’s current HP BIOS version is simple and can be done in several ways. Here are the most reliable methods:
Method 1. Within Windows (Easiest)
If your HP computer can boot normally, the following guides are suitable for you:
Option 1. System Information (msinfo32)
Microsoft System Information (Msinfo32.exe) is a Windows utility that collects detailed information about hardware, system components, and software.
It offers a comprehensive overview for diagnosing issues, including BIOS, memory, and driver details. Here are the steps to view the BIOS version from it.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type msinfo32 and press Enter
- Locate BIOS Version/Date in the System Summary pane.
Option 2. Command Prompt
Windows Command Prompt is a text-based tool for controlling your computer. It allows you to run scripts, automate tasks, and fix system issues.
It offers more direct control over the operating system than using standard icons and menus. Here’s the guide:
- Open Search.
- Type cmd in the search box.
- Find Command Prompt from the result.
- Right-click it and select Run as administrator.
- Type wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion and press Enter.
- Now, the BIOS version shows up.
Option 3. HP Support Assistant
HP Support Assistant (HPSA) is a preinstalled Windows utility that simplifies the process of checking and updating the BIOS.
It analyzes system hardware, identifies the current BIOS version, and lists available updates.
- Open Search.
- Search for and open the HP SupportAssistant app.
- On the My devices or My notebook tab, select Updates.
- It will not only display your current version but also the latest available BIOS version.
Method 2. During Startup (BIOS Menu)
In addition to checking BIOS version within Windows, it is also possible to check it during startup via the BIOS menu. This method is recommended when unable to enter Windows.
- Turn off the computer.
- Turn it back on and immediately start tapping the F10 key until the BIOS setup utility appears.
- Look for the BlOS version or date under the “Main” or “System Information” tab.
When to Update HP BIOS
Updating your HP BIOS is not a routine task like updating Windows or an app. Because a failed update can render your motherboard unusable, you should only update under specific circumstances.
# 1. Specific HP Recommendations
If HP Support Assistant marks a BIOS update as “Critical”, it is generally recommended to install it. Additionally, if the BIOS update resolves a known issue particularly for your model, it is recommended to install the update.
# 2. Persistent Bugs
Consider updating BIOS when you experience persistent bugs, such as:
- Systematic crashes
- Hardware malfunctions, like Wi-Fi drops or USB ports not working
# 3. Hardware Upgrades
Upgrading your computer’s CPU, RAM, or hard drive may require a BIOS update. This update helps your motherboard recognize and support newer hardware. It ensures your system works correctly with newer hardware released later.
# 4. Newer Features
The update brings improved performance, better power management, and new, necessary features.
Back Up Data via MiniTool ShadowMaker Before HP BIOS Update
Always back up your data before updating your BIOS to prevent permanent loss.
A failed update can brick your motherboard, making your computer unbootable and data recovery much more difficult.
Having a backup ensures your files stay safe if the system crashes or becomes corrupted during the process.
To back up data, it is highly recommended to use MiniTool ShadowMaker. This Windows backup software offers the Backup feature to perform file backup and system backup with ease.
Here’s how to use this software to back up important data:
Step 1. Download and install MiniTool ShadowMaker on your computer.
MiniTool ShadowMaker TrialClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
Step 2. Launch this software to enter the main interface and select Backup.
Step 3. Choose SOURCE and select Folders and Files.
Step 4. Select the files that you want to back up and click OK.
Step 5. Enter the DESTINATION section, choose a target location to save the backup files, and click OK to proceed.
Step 6. Click Back Up Now and OK sequentially to confirm.
How to Perform BIOS Update HP
If you want to perform a BIOS update on an HP computer, some preparation is necessary, such as connecting the power and disabling protections. Then, there are 4 approaches for you to update the HP BIOS:
- Approach 1. Use HP Support Assistant
- Approach 2. Manual Update from HP Website
- Approach 3. Via BIOS/UEFI Setup (F10)
- Approach 4. Update BIOS with a USB Drive (If Windows Won’t Start)
Preparation
To ensure a safe HP laptop/desktop BIOS update, verify your current version and back up all data first. It is also recommended to connect your power adapter and disable security protections like BitLocker to prevent update failures.
# 1. Connect Power
Never upgrade your laptop while it is powered solely by battery. If the battery dies mid-update, the motherboard may be permanently damaged.
# 2. Close All the Apps and Disable Antivirus Program
Before updating the HP BIOS, closing all the opened applications and temporarily disabling antivirus program are also necessary.
Close Opened Apps
Step 1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Step 2. Under the Processes tab, choose one open app and click End task.
Step 3. Repeat the steps to close all the opened apps.
Disable Antivirus Program
Step 1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
Step 2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Security.
Step 3. Select Virus & threat protection and click Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
# 3. Disable BitLocker
It is essential to suspend BitLocker encryption before initiating an HP BIOS update to prevent the system from triggering a recovery prompt. Failure to do so may result in a boot lock, requiring the BitLocker recovery key to regain access.
Here’s how to temporarily disable BitLocker Drive Encryption:
Step 1. Open Search, type control panel, and press Enter.
Step 2. Set View by to Category, choose System and Security, and then select BitLocker Drive Encryption.
Step 3. Click Suspend protection in the BitLocker Drive Encryption window. Also, note down your recovery key.
Approach 1. Use HP Support Assistant
HP Support Assistant not only checks the BIOS version but also helps update it. It automatically identifies the correct, compatible version for your system.
- Open HP Support Assistant from the Start menu.
- Go to the My devices tab and click Check for updates and messages.
- If a BIOS update is listed, select it and click Download and install.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Approach 2. Manual Update from HP Website
HP offers the latest drivers and software on its official website. Therefore, it is also possible to manually update the HP BIOS from the HP website. To do that, please follow the steps below:
Step 1. Visit the HP Software and Driver Downloads page. Then, identify your product.
Step 2. Expand the BIOS category and download the latest HP BIOS update.
Step 3. Close all open apps and double-click the downloaded .exe file to start the installer.
Step 4. Click Next and accept the terms in the license agreement.
Step 5. Choose a proper location and click Next. Then, click Next in the prompted HP BIOS Update and Recovery window.
Step 6. Select Update and click Next to prepare the update. Then, click Restart Now after the BIOS update is prepared successfully.
Step 7. Choose Apply Update Now. Then, the installation will take a few minutes to complete.
Step 8. After finishing the update, click Continue Startup.
Step 9. Next, log in to your HP computer, resume BitLocker protection, and re-enable your antivirus programs.
Approach 3. Via BIOS/UEFI Setup (F10)
It is possible to update the HP BIOS via BIOS/UEFI setup as well. Here’s how to perform that:
Step 1. Plug the HP laptop/desktop into a reliable power source and ensure you have an active internet connection (if updating via network).
Step 2. Turn on the computer and immediately press the F10 key repeatedly until the BIOS setup utility screen appears.
Step 3. Choose Check HP.com for BIOS Updates.
Step 4. Click Continue or OK to start the update process.
Step 5. Do not turn off or restart the computer during the update, which may take a few minutes. The system will restart automatically once finished.
Approach 4. Update BIOS with a USB Drive (If Windows Won’t Start)
If Windows won’t boot, use another PC to create a recovery drive. Here’s how to do that:
# 1. Getting the Computer BIOS Information
Step 1. Turn on the affected computer and press Esc repeatedly until the Startup Menu opens.
Step 2. Press the F1 key to open System Information.
Step 3. Write down the Product Name, SKU Number, System Board ID, BIOS Version/Revision, and Processor Type.
# 2. Prepare the Recovery USB Flash Drive
Step 1. On a working computer, download the BIOS update from HP Support.
Step 2. Plug in a USB drive and format it to FAT32.
Step 3. Run the installer and click Next. Then, accept the License Agreement.
Step 4. Choose a location to save the files and click Next.
Step 5. Click Next in the pop-up window, and select Create Recovery USB flash drive. Then, click Next to proceed.
Step 6. Select your USB drive and follow the prompts to complete the process.
# 3. Use the Recovery USB Flash Drive to Update BIOS
Step 1. Insert the prepared USB into the original PC, power it on, and then follow the steps below according to your computer.
- Option 1 (If the computer has BIOS recovery): With the computer off, press and hold the Win + B at the same time. While holding, press and hold the power button for 2–3 seconds, then release everything. A BIOS update screen should appear.
- Option 2 (via Diagnostics): Turn on the computer and tap F2 repeatedly to enter HP PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI. Select Firmware Management (or BIOS Management) > BIOS Update > Select BIOS Image to Apply > Select the file from your USB drive.
Step 2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update. Do not turn off the computer during this process.
Final Words
If you want to know some information about the HP BIOS update, this post offers a step-by-step guide. Ensure you have backed up data with MiniTool ShadowMaker before updating the HP BIOS.
Moreover, if you have suggestions or encounter issues while using this MiniTool software, contact us via [email protected].
HP BIOS Update FAQ
If the update fails, the computer may not turn on. This can happen due to power loss, interruption, or using the wrong version. It is hard to fix, so BIOS updates should only be done when needed.
- You're experiencing instability issues when installing new hardware.
- You need important security patches.
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Charlotte is a technology columnist with a strong focus on the Windows operating system, specializing in disk management, backup, and data recovery. She is passionate about analyzing computer errors, identifying root causes, and delivering practical solutions. In her free time, she stays updated on the latest developments in computer systems and hardware while continuously learning new technologies to broaden her expertise. Her writing style is clear and easy to understand, making complex technical topics accessible even to users with limited computer knowledge.
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