Technician performing a BIOS firmware update on a laptop with progress screen showing “BIOS update in progress – do not turn off”.

Should You Update Your BIOS? (Simple Guide)

If you’ve ever had a computer that won’t boot, freezes, or acts strange after an update, you may have heard the advice: “Update the BIOS.”
Here’s a simple explanation of what that means and when to do it.


What is BIOS?

The BIOS is the small program on your motherboard that starts your computer before Windows loads.
Without it, your PC can’t turn on properly.

Think of it as the computer’s starter engine.


What is a BIOS update?

A BIOS update installs a newer version of that startup software from the manufacturer (Dell, HP, ASUS, Lenovo, etc.).

Updates usually fix:

  • Bugs and crashes

  • Hardware compatibility issues

  • Security problems

  • Boot and power issues


When should you update BIOS?

You should update if your computer has problems like:

  • Won’t turn on or boot properly

  • Freezing or random shutdowns

  • Hardware not being detected

  • Issues after Windows updates

  • Manufacturer recommends the update

If your computer works perfectly, you usually don’t need to update it.


Is updating BIOS risky?

It can be if done wrong.

If power is lost or the wrong file is installed, the computer may not turn on at all.
That’s why it must be done carefully with the device plugged into power.

Good news: modern computers are much safer to update than older ones.


Basic update process

  1. Download the BIOS from the manufacturer website

  2. Plug the computer into power

  3. Run the update tool

  4. Wait while the computer restarts and installs it

Never turn off the computer during the update.


Quick summary

BIOS updates:

  • Fix stability and compatibility problems

  • Improve security

  • Should only be done when needed

  • Must be done carefully

When done properly, a BIOS update can fix issues that normal troubleshooting can’t.


Need help?

At A Laptop Shoppe, we safely perform BIOS and firmware updates as part of professional diagnostics and repair.
If your computer is having boot issues, freezing, or hardware problems, we can help determine whether a BIOS update is the right solution and perform it safely for you.

Contact us Today!
📍 #3, 2280 39 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6P7
📞 403-274-5190
📧 support@alaptopshoppe.com