How to Check BIOS Version in Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide

Every computer has a hidden piece of software called BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). It’s not something you see every day, but it is vital for your PC’s health, speed, and security. The BIOS wakes up your computer, checks your hardware, and helps your operating system (like Windows) start correctly. Sometimes, you need to know your BIOS version—maybe you want to update it for better performance, fix bugs, or add support for new hardware. But how do you check your BIOS version in Windows? If you’ve never done it, it might sound confusing. The good news: it’s easier than you think, and you don’t need to open your computer or enter any scary menus. This guide walks you through several simple methods, explains why BIOS versions matter, and gives you tips that even many advanced users miss.

Why Knowing Your Bios Version Matters

Most people never think about their BIOS. But your BIOS version can affect your computer more than you realize. Here’s why it’s important:

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• Hardware compatibility: Newer hardware (like CPUs or RAM) might need a specific BIOS version to work.
• Security: Updates can close vulnerabilities and protect you from threats.
• Stability and performance: Manufacturers fix bugs and improve features in BIOS updates.
• Troubleshooting: Tech support often asks for your BIOS version when you have problems.

Imagine you buy a new processor, but your motherboard doesn’t support it until you update the BIOS. Or maybe your PC is crashing, and a BIOS update could fix it. Knowing your BIOS version lets you check if you need an update.

How Bios Works In Modern Windows Pcs

On modern PCs, the BIOS has evolved. Most new computers use UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface), which is like a newer, more advanced BIOS. But people still call it BIOS, and you check the version the same way.

• BIOS: Used in older systems, text-based, limited features.
• UEFI: Used in most computers built after 2012, supports bigger hard drives, better security, and a mouse-friendly interface.

No matter which you have, Windows lets you check the version easily.

Before You Check: A Few Quick Tips

Many people rush to check their BIOS version without knowing what to look for. Here are two things beginners often miss:

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• Document your BIOS version before you update—sometimes updates can fail, and you’ll want to know what you had.
• Make sure your system is stable when checking or updating BIOS—never do it if your computer is acting strangely or losing power.

Now, let’s look at several ways to check your BIOS version in Windows.

Method 1: Check Bios Version Using System Information

This is the fastest and easiest way for most users. You don’t need admin rights, and you don’t have to restart your PC.

• Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
• Type `msinfo32` and press Enter.
• The System Information window opens.
• Find the item called BIOS Version/Date in the right pane.

You’ll see something like:

BIOS Version/Date: American Megatrends Inc. 1.50, 3/15/2022

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• Manufacturer: American Megatrends Inc.
• Version: 1.50
• Date: 3/15/2022

This tells you the company, version, and the release date. Take a screenshot or write it down.

Advantages

• Very fast—takes less than a minute.
• No need for extra software.
• Works on almost all Windows versions (Windows 7, 8, 10, 11).

Limitations

• Shows basic info only.
• Some custom PCs may not display the full version string.

Method 2: Use Command Prompt To Find Your Bios Version

If you like typing commands, Windows’ built-in Command Prompt offers another quick way.

• Press Windows key, type “cmd”, then right-click Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator.”
• In the Command Prompt window, type:

wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion

• Press Enter. You’ll see something like:

SMBIOSBIOSVersion
1.50

For more details, try:

wmic bios get biosversion, manufacturer, releasedate

This gives you:

• BIOSVersion
• Manufacturer
• ReleaseDate

Advantages

• Fast and simple.
• Works even on older Windows versions.
• Can be used in scripts for automation.

Limitations

• May not show all details (some manufacturers use custom strings).
• Requires careful typing—spelling mistakes can cause errors.

Method 3: Check Bios Version Using Windows Powershell

PowerShell is a more modern Windows tool, often used by IT pros, but it’s user-friendly.

• Press Windows key + X and choose “Windows PowerShell (Admin)”.
• In the PowerShell window, type:

Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_BIOS

• Press Enter.

Look for these lines:

• SMBIOSBIOSVersion
• Manufacturer
• ReleaseDate

Example output:

SMBIOSBIOSVersion : 1.50
Manufacturer : American Megatrends Inc.
ReleaseDate : 20220315

Tip: If you want a cleaner output, use:

(Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_BIOS).SMBIOSBIOSVersion

Advantages

• Returns more detailed info.
• Useful for advanced users and scripts.
• Can copy and paste output easily.

Limitations

• PowerShell may be unfamiliar to beginners.
• On some locked-down work computers, you may need admin rights.

Method 4: Check Bios Version In Windows Settings (windows 10/11)

Recent versions of Windows make this process easier through the Settings app.

• Click Start, then Settings.
• Go to System > About.
• Scroll down to Device specifications.
• Look for BIOS or Firmware version.

Not all computers show BIOS info here, but many laptops and desktops from big brands (Dell, HP, Lenovo) include it.

Advantages

• Simple, visual, and safe for beginners.
• No typing or commands needed.

Limitations

• May not display on custom-built PCs.
• Shows less detail compared to other methods.

Method 5: View Bios Version In Uefi/bios Setup On Boot

Sometimes, you want to check directly in the BIOS/UEFI setup. This works even if Windows won’t start.

• Restart your computer.
• While it’s booting, press the special key (often F2, DEL, ESC, or F10—check your screen for instructions).
• The BIOS/UEFI Setup Utility will open.
• Look for a line that says BIOS Version, Firmware Version, or similar—usually on the main or info page.

This is the most direct way, and it always works (even if Windows is broken).

Advantages

• Shows the real, current BIOS version.
• Can check even if Windows is unbootable.

Limitations

• Requires a restart.
• May be confusing for first-timers.
• Some laptops hide the info on secondary pages.

Method 6: Find Bios Version With Third-party Tools

Several free tools can show BIOS information in more detail. Two popular options are CPU-Z and Speccy.

Using Cpu-z

• Download CPU-Z from the official site.
• Install and run the program.
• Click the Mainboard tab.
• Look for BIOS section—shows brand, version, and date.

Using Speccy

• Download Speccy (by CCleaner).
• Open the app.
• Click Motherboard on the left menu.
• BIOS details appear on the right.

Advantages

• Shows deep hardware info (BIOS, motherboard, RAM, etc. ).
• Easy to use graphical interface.
• Good for custom-built PCs.

Limitations

• Need to download and install software.
• Some antivirus programs may flag tools (always use official sites).

Method 7: Check Bios Version Using Windows Registry

The Windows Registry stores BIOS info, but this method is best for advanced users.

• Press Windows key + R, type `regedit`, and press Enter.
• Navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\HARDWARE\DESCRIPTION\System

• On the right, look for SystemBiosVersion and SystemBiosDate.

Advantages

• Useful for scripting and automation.
• Works even if other methods fail.

Limitations

• Editing the Registry can damage your system—look only, don’t change anything.
• Not beginner-friendly.

Which Method Should You Use?

With all these options, you might wonder which is best for you. Here’s a quick comparison:

How To Interpret Bios Version Strings

BIOS version numbers can look confusing. Here’s how to read them:

• Manufacturer: Usually American Megatrends, Phoenix, Insyde, etc.
• Version: Might be numbers, letters, or both (e.g., F.23, 1.50, A12).
• Date: Format may be US (MM/DD/YYYY) or international (YYYY/MM/DD).

Example:

American Megatrends Inc. 1.50, 03/15/2022

Some vendors add their own codes. For example, Dell uses A12, HP may use F. 23.

Tip: Match Version And Date

When updating, match both the version number and release date with your motherboard’s support page. Sometimes, newer numbers are not always newer versions (especially with custom boards).

Bios Vs. Uefi: What’s The Difference For Windows Users?

Most modern Windows PCs use UEFI. But people still say “BIOS version” when they mean “UEFI firmware version.” For checking the version, the process is the same.

• UEFI lets you use bigger hard drives (over 2TB), secure boot, and has a better graphical interface.
• BIOS is older, text-only, and has more limits.

If your PC was built after 2012, you probably have UEFI. But Windows calls both “BIOS version” in most tools.

Updating Bios: When And Why

You now know how to check your BIOS version. But when should you update it? And what are the risks?

Good Reasons To Update Bios

• You bought new hardware (CPU, RAM, SSD) and your motherboard support page says a BIOS update is needed.
• Your computer is unstable, crashing, or freezing, and a new BIOS version promises a fix.
• Security vulnerabilities that affect your PC are fixed in a newer BIOS.

When Not To Update Bios

• Your PC is working fine and you don’t need new features.
• You’re not sure you have the correct BIOS file—using the wrong one can break your system.
• You have a laptop with no BIOS update available from the manufacturer.

Risks Of Updating Bios

• Power failure during update can “brick” your motherboard (it won’t start).
• Wrong update file can damage your system.
• Interrupting the process can cause problems.

How To Check For Bios Updates

Go to your motherboard or laptop brand’s support site. Enter your model, and compare your current BIOS version with the latest one offered. If your version is older and you need the update, follow the instructions carefully.

For more guidance, visit the official Microsoft documentation at Microsoft Support.

Common Mistakes And Troubleshooting

Many users make small mistakes when checking or updating BIOS. Here’s how to avoid them:

Not Backing Up Important Data

Always save your work and back up important files before making BIOS changes. While checking the version is safe, updates are risky.

Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions

Each brand (Dell, HP, ASUS, Gigabyte) has its own BIOS update process. Always read their official guides.

Misreading Version Numbers

Check both version and release date. Some versions are region-specific.

Using Unofficial Bios Files

Never download BIOS updates from forums or unknown sites. Only use the official manufacturer site.

Forgetting To Restore Defaults

After some BIOS updates, you may need to reset BIOS settings to default for your PC to work well. Watch for this advice on the update screen.

Real-world Example: Checking Bios Version For A Ram Upgrade

Let’s say you want to install more RAM in your PC. You check the motherboard’s support page and see that a BIOS version of at least 2. 00 is needed for your new memory sticks.

Here’s what you do:

• Use msinfo32 (System Information) to see your current BIOS version.
• If your version is older (like 1.50), you know you need an update.
• Download the new BIOS from your manufacturer’s official website.
• Carefully follow their update steps.

If you skipped checking your BIOS version, your new RAM might not work, and you’d waste time troubleshooting.

Security And Bios: How Version Affects Protection

BIOS updates don’t just add features—they often patch security holes. For example, in 2018, major bugs like Spectre and Meltdown required both Windows and BIOS updates to protect your PC.

• Security researchers found that out-of-date BIOS/UEFI can let hackers install malware that Windows cannot detect or remove.
• Always check your BIOS version when important security news appears.

Data Table: Popular Motherboard Brands And Bios Version Locations

Different brands display BIOS version information in different places. Here’s a quick overview:

If you aren’t sure, watch your screen during boot for a message like “Press DEL to enter setup. ”

Advanced: Automate Bios Version Checks

If you manage many computers, you can automate BIOS version checks using scripts. For example, with PowerShell:

Get-ComputerInfo | Select-Object Bios*

This command gives you all BIOS-related info at once.

Or, to export to a file for records:

Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_BIOS | Out-File -FilePath "C:\biosinfo.txt"

This is useful for IT support and system administrators.

What To Do If You Can’t Find Your Bios Version

Sometimes, none of the above methods work. Here’s what to try:

• Check motherboard manual: Physical manuals usually print the original BIOS version.
• Look for stickers on the motherboard: Some boards have a sticker with the version.
• Visit the manufacturer’s support page: Enter your serial number for details.
• Contact support: Give them your system’s serial number and ask.

Should You Update Bios Just Because There’s A New Version?

Many guides say, “Always update your BIOS!” But experienced users know: if your PC works well, and you don’t need new hardware or features, it’s often safer to leave it alone. Only update for a good reason, and always follow the correct steps.

Non-obvious Insights: What Many Beginners Miss

• BIOS updates do not add Windows features—they affect hardware compatibility and stability, not your operating system’s look or apps.
• A failed BIOS update is hard to fix—some modern motherboards have “dual BIOS” or “BIOS Flashback” to recover, but many laptops do not.
• BIOS version alone doesn’t tell you all hardware support—always check the change logs on your manufacturer’s support page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Bios, And Why Do I Need To Check Its Version?

BIOS is the basic software that starts your computer before Windows loads. You need to check its version if you plan to update hardware, fix system bugs, or follow security alerts. Knowing the version helps you decide if you need an update.

Is It Safe To Update My Bios?

Updating BIOS is usually safe if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, use the right file, and don’t lose power during the process. But it carries risks—never update unless you need to, and always back up important data first.

Can I Check My Bios Version Without Restarting My Computer?

Yes! You can use System Information (`msinfo32`), Command Prompt, PowerShell, or third-party tools like CPU-Z and Speccy. All these methods work without restarting.

What Happens If I Use The Wrong Bios Update File?

Using the wrong update file can make your computer unable to start (sometimes called “bricking” your motherboard). Always use the official manufacturer’s website and match the file to your exact model.

How Often Should I Check Or Update My Bios?

Check your BIOS version if you plan to change hardware, fix a specific problem, or see security news about BIOS vulnerabilities. You don’t need to update regularly—only when there’s a good reason.

Staying informed about your BIOS version is a simple step that can prevent big headaches. With the methods above, you’ll always know where you stand and be ready for hardware upgrades, troubleshooting, or security improvements. For more details, you can visit the official Wikipedia page on BIOS.