How to check BIOS version Windows 10?

Checking BIOS Version in Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding BIOS and Its Importance

Before we dive into the process of checking BIOS version in Windows 10, it’s essential to understand what BIOS is and its significance. BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a firmware that controls the basic input/output operations of a computer. It’s responsible for managing hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices. In Windows 10, the BIOS is stored in a file called BIOS.MDI and is located in the C:WindowsSystem32BIOS directory.

Why Check BIOS Version?

Checking the BIOS version is crucial for several reasons:

• Hardware compatibility: The BIOS version determines the compatibility of your hardware components with the operating system. Upgrading to a newer BIOS version can resolve compatibility issues and ensure that your hardware works smoothly.
• Security: BIOS updates can improve the security of your system by patching vulnerabilities and fixing bugs.
• Troubleshooting: Checking the BIOS version can help you identify and resolve issues related to hardware components.

How to Check BIOS Version in Windows 10

Here’s a step-by-step guide to checking the BIOS version in Windows 10:

Method 1: Using the BIOS Settings in Device Manager

1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
2. In the Device Manager, click on Action and select Update driver.
3. In the Update driver window, click on Search automatically for updated driver software.
4. Windows will search for and install any available updates, including BIOS updates.
5. Once the update is installed, restart your computer and check the BIOS version.

Method 2: Using the BIOS Settings in the BIOS Setup Utility

1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
2. In the Device Manager, click on Action and select Update driver.
3. In the Update driver window, click on Search automatically for updated driver software.
4. Windows will search for and install any available updates, including BIOS updates.
5. Once the update is installed, restart your computer and check the BIOS version.

Method 3: Using the Command Prompt

1. Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt.
2. In the Command Prompt, type bcdedit /get system and press Enter.
3. The output will display the BIOS version, which is usually in the format BIOS Version: XXXX.
4. You can also use the bcdedit /set system command to set the BIOS version to a specific value.

Significant BIOS Version Features

Here are some significant BIOS version features to keep in mind:

• UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface): UEFI is a newer firmware standard that replaces the traditional BIOS. It offers improved security, faster boot times, and better hardware support.
• Secure Boot: Secure Boot is a feature that ensures the integrity of the operating system and hardware components. It requires a valid UEFI firmware and a valid boot loader.
• UEFI Secure Boot: UEFI Secure Boot is a feature that ensures the integrity of the operating system and hardware components. It requires a valid UEFI firmware and a valid boot loader.

BIOS Version Compatibility

Here are some BIOS version compatibility guidelines:

• BIOS Version 1.1: This is the original BIOS version, which is still supported by many hardware components.
• BIOS Version 2.0: This is the first UEFI firmware version, which is supported by most modern hardware components.
• BIOS Version 3.0: This is the second UEFI firmware version, which is supported by most modern hardware components.
• BIOS Version 4.0: This is the third UEFI firmware version, which is supported by most modern hardware components.

Conclusion

Checking the BIOS version in Windows 10 is a crucial step in ensuring the compatibility and security of your hardware components. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily check the BIOS version and take advantage of the latest BIOS features. Remember to always keep your BIOS version up to date to ensure optimal performance and security.

Table: BIOS Version Comparison

BIOS Version	UEFI Firmware	Secure Boot	UEFI Secure Boot
1.1	Yes	No	No
2.0	Yes	No	No
3.0	Yes	No	No
4.0	Yes	No	No

Important Note: The BIOS version and UEFI firmware versions are subject to change, and it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s website for the latest information.