A BIOS update can fail for many reasons, but most problems are fixable with a few checks and the right procedure. If your BIOS update doesn’t work in Windows 10, this article explains the common causes and gives step‑by‑step solutions so you can complete the update safely.
You’ll learn why updates fail (wrong file, permissions, security settings, power loss, antivirus interference, etc.), how to prepare (backup, suspend BitLocker, ensure power), and precise fixes for each scenario — including Windows commands and manufacturer‑recommended approaches.
Key Takeaway
The most important fix: stop trying a Windows-run updater until you confirm the correct BIOS file and suspend security features (BitLocker, Secure Boot if required), ensure full power, disable antivirus, then flash via the recommended method (UEFI flash, manufacturer tool, or bootable USB). Verify model and checksum before flashing.
Quick Fix Guide
| Reason for the Problem | Quick Solution |
|---|---|
| Wrong BIOS file or incompatible model | Verify model/part number and download the exact BIOS for your model from the OEM website. |
| Corrupted download or wrong checksum | Re‑download and verify the file checksum (MD5/SHA256) matches vendor’s value. |
| Not running with Administrator privileges | Run the updater as Administrator or use an elevated command prompt. |
| Windows updater method incompatible | Use the manufacturer’s UEFI/BIOS flash tool or bootable USB method instead of an in‑OS updater. |
| Secure Boot / UEFI restrictions | Temporarily disable Secure Boot or use a vendor-signed update that supports Secure Boot. |
| Antivirus / security software blocking flash | Pause or uninstall third‑party antivirus and temporarily suspend Windows Defender real‑time protection. |
| BitLocker encrypts disk and blocks firmware changes | Suspend BitLocker before updating (Control Panel > BitLocker Drive Encryption). |
| Insufficient power or laptop battery low | Plug in AC power and use a UPS for desktops; ensure battery ≥50% for laptops. |
| Corrupted BIOS chip or CMOS battery | Test/replace CMOS battery and use manufacturer recovery methods (USB recovery/BIOS recovery jumper). |
| Interrupted update (power loss or reboot) | Recover via manufacturer BIOS recovery procedure or service repair if recovery fails. |
Detailed Fixes for “BIOS update doesn’t work in Windows 10”
H3: Wrong BIOS file or incompatible model
Why it causes the problem:
Installing the wrong BIOS for a different motherboard revision or model can prevent the update tool from proceeding or brick the board.
Step-by-step fix:
- Open Start and run msinfo32 (type and press Enter).
- Note System Model, BaseBoard Manufacturer, and BIOS Version/Date.
- Visit your OEM (Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI) support site and search using the exact System Model string.
- Download the BIOS specifically labeled for that model and hardware revision.
- If multiple BIOS versions exist, read release notes to ensure compatibility.
Tips:
- Don’t rely on third‑party BIOS sites — always use the manufacturer.
- If unsure about model marking (especially in custom builds), open the case and read the motherboard model printed on the PCB.
H3: Corrupted download or wrong checksum
Why it causes the problem:
A corrupted BIOS file can fail integrity checks or cause incomplete flashing.
Step-by-step fix:
- After download, find the checksum provided by the vendor (MD5, SHA1, SHA256).
- Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:
- Get-FileHash C:\path\to\downloadedfile.bin -Algorithm SHA256
- Compare the returned hash to the vendor’s value.
- If it doesn’t match, re-download using a wired connection and try again.
Notes:
- Use a download manager if your connection is flaky.
- Some vendor pages include embedded update tools; still verify any raw BIOS image you use.
H3: Not running with Administrator privileges
Why it causes the problem:
Windows will block low-level operations (like firmware flashing) unless the updater runs elevated.
Step-by-step fix:
- Right-click the update executable and choose Run as administrator.
- Alternatively, open Command Prompt as Administrator and run the updater by full path:
- C:\Users\You\Downloads\BIOSUpdate.exe
- If the updater is a Microsoft-signed package, use Windows Installer elevation prompts when shown.
Tips:
- If a standard admin account still fails, try performing the update from a built-in Administrator account (rarely needed).
H3: Windows updater method incompatible
Why it causes the problem:
Some OEM updaters require either a direct UEFI/BIOS flashing option or a DOS/USB environment; running from Windows can fail for certain builds.
Step-by-step fix:
- Check the vendor instructions: if they provide a UEFI/BIOS Flash Utility accessible from the BIOS setup, prefer that.
- To reboot into firmware with a command:
- Open Admin Command Prompt and run: shutdown /r /fw /t 0
- Use vendor tool to create a bootable USB (instructions usually on support page). Common utility steps:
- Format a USB as FAT32.
- Copy BIOS image and vendor recovery utility to USB.
- Boot system, press BIOS hotkey (F2/F12/DEL), select flash/update option, point to the file.
- Alternatively use Rufus to prepare a FreeDOS USB and run the flash tool if vendor supports FreeDOS method.
Notes:
- Some newer systems support flashing from the BIOS menu even with no OS present — this is safest.
H3: Secure Boot / UEFI restrictions
Why it causes the problem:
Secure Boot may prevent unsigned firmware utilities from running, especially if the updater uses unsigned components.
Step-by-step fix:
- Reboot and enter UEFI settings (press F2, DEL, ESC, or vendor key).
- Locate Secure Boot and temporarily set it to Disabled.
- Save and reboot to Windows, run the update as above.
- After a successful flash, re-enable Secure Boot and verify system boots.
Notes:
- Only disable Secure Boot temporarily; some vendors provide signed updates that don’t require this step.
H3: Antivirus / security software blocking flash
Why it causes the problem:
Real-time protection or endpoint security may quarantine or block firmware updater components.
Step-by-step fix:
- Pause third‑party antivirus or uninstall temporarily:
- Open your antivirus app and choose Pause Protection or Disable.
- Suspend Windows Defender:
- Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage settings and toggle Real‑time protection off.
- Run the BIOS updater as Administrator.
- Re-enable antivirus after flashing and run a full scan.
Tip:
- If the vendor recommends allowing a specific executable, add it to the antivirus exclusion list first.
H3: BitLocker encrypts disk and blocks firmware changes
Why it causes the problem:
If BitLocker is enabled, changing firmware or boot variables can trigger BitLocker recovery on reboot and block operation.
Step-by-step fix:
- Open Control Panel > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
- For each encrypted drive, choose Suspend protection.
- Proceed with BIOS update.
- After successful update and boot, return to BitLocker and choose Resume protection.
Alternative (command line):
- Open Admin PowerShell and run:
- manage-bde -protectors -disable C: -rebootcount 1
Notes:
- If BitLocker goes into recovery unexpectedly, you need the recovery key; ensure you have it backed up (Microsoft account or saved file/printout).
H3: Insufficient power or laptop battery low
Why it causes the problem:
A power loss during flashing can corrupt firmware and brick the system.
Step-by-step fix:
- For laptops: connect AC adapter and ensure battery shows charging and >50% charge.
- For desktops: connect to a UPS or at least a reliable surge protector.
- Avoid performing updates during storms or on unstable power.
Tips:
- Do not attempt BIOS updates on battery power alone.
- If an update begins and power fails, follow your vendor’s BIOS recovery instructions immediately.
H3: Corrupted BIOS chip or CMOS battery
Why it causes the problem:
A failing CMOS battery or damaged flash chip can prevent writes or reset settings unexpectedly.
Step-by-step fix:
- If the system shows weird BIOS behavior, power off and disconnect.
- Replace the CMOS battery (CR2032) on motherboards where accessible; check manual for location.
- Clear CMOS using the motherboard jumper or by removing the battery for 5–10 minutes.
- Retry flashing using vendor recovery method (some boards have dual‑BIOS or recovery jumper).
Notes:
- If BIOS chip itself is damaged, vendor service or programmer reflash may be required.
H3: Interrupted update (power loss or reboot)
Why it causes the problem:
A partial flash leaves firmware in an inconsistent state and may fail to boot.
Step-by-step fix:
- Consult your manufacturer’s BIOS recovery procedure — many vendors offer a USB recovery method:
- Create a BIOS recovery USB per vendor instructions.
- Boot with specific key combination (e.g., hold Win+B on some devices) to trigger recovery.
- If recovery options fail, contact OEM support — they may provide reprogramming or RMA.
Tip:
- Keep a recovery USB and instructions handy before attempting an update.
Precautions and preparation before a BIOS update
- Backup your important data to an external drive or cloud.
- Ensure you have the exact model and BIOS file, plus the vendor checksum.
- Have a recovery strategy: vendor recovery USB, recovery jumper, and BitLocker recovery key.
- Suspend BitLocker and disable unnecessary security software.
- Use a stable power source: AC adapter for laptops, UPS for desktops.
- Read the vendor release notes for prerequisites (chipset driver versions, special instructions).
FAQ
H4: Can a failed BIOS update be fixed at home?
Sometimes — if the motherboard supports BIOS recovery via USB/jumper or has dual BIOS, you can recover yourself. If the board is bricked (no power/POST), you’ll likely need vendor repair.
H4: How do I check if the BIOS update succeeded?
Open msinfo32 and look at BIOS Version/Date, or in Windows Admin Command Prompt run wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion to confirm the new version.
H4: Should I update the BIOS if everything works?
Only update BIOS if the update fixes a problem you’re experiencing or adds needed hardware support; do not update just for a minor increment. Read release notes for necessity.
H4: Will updating BIOS affect Windows activation or installed software?
BIOS updates do not change Windows activation keys, but firmware changes can trigger BitLocker recovery. Make sure BitLocker is suspended before updating.
H4: What if the manufacturer only provides a Windows-based updater but it fails repeatedly?
Try creating the vendor-recommended bootable USB or use the UEFI flash option in the firmware. If no method works, contact vendor support for an alternative updater or instructions.
Conclusion
BIOS update failures in Windows 10 are usually caused by mismatched files, permission/security restrictions, power issues, or corrupted downloads — and each has a clear remediation path. By following the checks above (verify model, checksum, suspend BitLocker, ensure power, disable AV, and use the correct flashing method) you can resolve nearly all cases when a BIOS update doesn’t work in Windows 10.
