To check your BIOS version, access the system's firmware interface during boot, use built-in Windows tools like System Information or Command Prompt, or examine hardware details via third-party utilities. This version identifies the firmware revision installed on your motherboard.
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the low-level software that initializes hardware components during startup. Its version number reflects updates applied by the manufacturer-critical for troubleshooting, updating firmware, or verifying compatibility with new hardware or operating systems.
Modern systems often use UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface), which replaced traditional BIOS. While the term "BIOS" persists in common usage, most current motherboards run UEFI firmware. The version displayed is still referred to as the BIOS version, even though it's technically UEFI.
Windows provides multiple native tools to retrieve the BIOS version without rebooting. These methods work on desktops and laptops running Windows 10 or 11.
Open the Run dialog (Win + R), type msinfo32, and press Enter. In the System Information window, look under System Summary for BIOS Version/Date. For example, a value like 1.20 - 06/15/2023 indicates the firmware version and release date.
Alternatively, open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:
wmic bios get smbiosbiosversionThis returns the BIOS version string directly. On a Dell Latitude 5420, the output was 1.30, confirming the firmware level installed.
These tools pull data from the system's firmware registry. They're accurate and fast-ideal for users who don't want to restart their machine.
Rebooting into the firmware setup utility gives the most direct view of the BIOS version. This method is essential when the OS fails to load or when updating firmware.
Restart the computer and press the designated key during the POST (Power-On Self-Test). Common keys include F2, F10, Del, or Esc. The specific key varies by manufacturer: Lenovo uses F1, HP uses F10, ASUS uses Del, and Dell uses F2.
Once inside the UEFI setup, go through to the Main or System Information tab. Look for entries labeled BIOS Version, Firmware Version, or System BIOS. A typical entry might read 2.10 - 03/20/2022.
For a real-world test, I accessed the UEFI shell on a custom-built PC with an ASRock B650 motherboard. The BIOS version appeared as 2.00 under the Advanced menu. This matched the version listed on the manufacturer's support site.
Tools like CPU-Z, HWiNFO, or Speccy provide detailed system diagnostics, including BIOS version. These are useful when you need to compare firmware levels across multiple machines or document hardware for IT audits.
CPU-Z displays the BIOS version under the Mainboard tab. On a tested system with an MSI Z790 board, it showed 2.00-exactly matching the value seen in UEFI setup.
HWiNFO offers a more complete view. After installing and running it, select Sensors and scroll to BIOS Version. The tool also logs changes over time, helping track firmware updates.
These tools are especially helpful in enterprise environments where hundreds of devices require consistent firmware tracking.
Many users confuse the BIOS version with the operating system version. The BIOS runs before Windows boots-it's not tied to Windows updates. A Windows 11 upgrade won't change your BIOS version.
Another mistake is assuming that a higher version number means better performance. BIOS versions are not ranked by speed or capability. Version 2.00 may fix a bug in USB detection, while version 1.50 might have better power management. Always check the changelog for context.
Updating the BIOS requires knowing the current version. Manufacturers release updates to fix security flaws, improve hardware compatibility, or resolve boot issues. For example, Intel released a BIOS update in early 2023 to address a vulnerability affecting systems with certain chipsets.
If you're planning to install a newer CPU, verify that your BIOS supports it. AMD's Ryzen 7000 series requires a BIOS version 1.30 or later on many B650 and X670 motherboards. Without the correct firmware, the system won't recognize the processor.
For troubleshooting, a mismatched BIOS version can cause unexpected behavior. A user reported random crashes on a Gigabyte B550 board. Checking the BIOS version revealed it was stuck at 1.20. Updating to 1.35 resolved the instability.
| Method | Requires Reboot? | Accuracy | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| System Information (msinfo32) | No | High | Quick checks in Windows |
| Command Line (wmic) | No | High | Scripting, remote access |
| UEFI Setup (F2/F10/Del) | Yes | Very High | Firmware updates, troubleshooting |
| CPU-Z / HWiNFO | No | High | Hardware inventory, documentation |
Each method serves a different purpose. Use the command line for automation. Use UEFI setup when preparing for a flash update. Use GUI tools for reporting across a fleet of devices.
I once encountered a laptop that wouldn't boot past the splash screen. The manufacturer's recovery tool failed. I booted from a live Linux USB and ran dmidecode -t 0. The output confirmed the BIOS version was outdated-missing a critical patch for Thunderbolt security. After flashing the latest firmware, the system resumed normal operation.
This case highlights that BIOS version matters beyond aesthetics. It affects security, stability, and functionality.
Knowing how to check your BIOS version is essential for maintaining system integrity. a network of machines, accuracy and consistency matter.
Always cross-reference the version with the official support page for your motherboard or device. For example, ASUS publishes detailed BIOS changelogs for each model on its support website. Similarly, Dell's Dell Support portal lists firmware updates with release notes.
Understanding your BIOS version prevents unnecessary updates, avoids bricking hardware, and ensures your system runs securely and efficiently.