How to Check BIOS Version

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The term BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, originally referred to a specific type of interface between a computer system's firmware and its operating system. However, among consumers, the term BIOS has evolved into a term used to describe any interface between firmware and operating system. Some PC-based systems now use Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), however most systems still use the BIOS interface. Apple's Intel-based systems have transitioned from the Open Firmware interface to the Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI). In order to update your system's firmware, you will need to know the specific firmware to operating system interface your system uses and what version it is. In this article you will learn how to determine the interface your system uses and how to check which BIOS version your system is running.

Steps

Windows 7

1. 1
   Use either of the following techniques in Windows 7:

   
   

   • MSinfo32 Method: Determine the BIOS version in Windows 7 using the "msinfo32" command. Select "Run" from the start menu, type "msinfo32" into the open field and click "OK." Locate the BIOS version/date entry in the items column. The BIOS information will be listed in the adjacent column labeled "Value."
     
     
     
   • Command line method: Select "Run" from the start menu, type "systeminfo" into the open field and click "OK." Locate the BIOS version in the column on the right. The BIOS version will be listed in the adjacent column.
     
     
     

Windows Vista and XP

1. 1
   Locate the BIOS information using Windows XP and Windows Vista. Select the "All Programs" option from the start menu and click "Accessories." Locate the system tools option and select "System Information" from the pull-down menu. Locate the BIOS version/date entry in the items column. The BIOS information will be listed in the adjacent column labeled "Value."
   
   
   

Mac

1. 1
   Determine your Mac system's EFI version. Select "About this Mac" from the Apple menu. Select "More Info" from the menu options. Choose the "Hardware" option from the Contents menu. Scroll down the panel on the right to find your system's EFI version and determine the EFI version your system is running.
   
   
   

   
   

Tips

• Once you have determined the version of BIOS running on your system, you can update your computer's firmware. Navigate to the manufacturer's website to confirm that your firmware has the most recent update. An Internet search using the information obtained by accessing your BIOS information will produce the firmware manufacturer's website.
  
  
  
• When updating your BIOS, UEFI or EFI, it is recommended that your system be connected to an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) unit. A power interruption during the update process can cause serious damage to your system and may even render your system u

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