- To check the UEFI (BIOS) version on Windows 11, open System Information, click “System Summary,” and confirm the version in the “BIOS Version/Date” information to confirm the version.
- Since Windows 11 requires modern hardware features, if you’re running the operating system, it means that the system has an UEFI firmware.
The Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is one of the most critical components on your Windows 11 laptop or desktop computer because it’s what makes it possible for the software to interact with the hardware.
In a nutshell, the UEFI firmware instructs the system to perform essential functions like starting up. It also finds and configures the hardware like processor, memory, hard drive, and others so (in this case) Windows 11 can boot. UEFI is similar to older BIOS (Basic Input and Output System). Some people may still refer to “UEFI” as the “BIOS.” However, it was designed to provide greater security features and overcome the limitations of the older technology, such as support for larger hard drives, faster boot times, and more.
Usually, this type of firmware does not receive updates frequently. However, sometimes manufacturers (such as HP, Dell, Lenovo, Asus, and others) may have to release a patch to fix bugs, improve stability, and support new processors or new features.
If you have a computer with UEFI firmware, it’s a good idea to find out the version to determine if you need to apply a new update to address problems or improve the functionality of your computer.
This guide will teach you the steps to check the UEFI version on Windows 11 and what you need to do to install the new version.
Check UEFI (BIOS) version on Windows 11
To check the UEFI version on Windows 11:
-
Open Start on Windows 11.
-
Search for System Information, and click the top result to open the app.
Quick tip: Alternatively, you can also use the “Windows key + R” keyboard shortcut to open the Run command, type “msinfo32,” and click “OK” to open System Information. -
Click on System Summary.
-
Check the BIOS Mode information to determine whether the system is using UEFI.
-
Check the BIOS Version/Date information to confirm the UEFI version on Windows 11 and the installation date.
Once you complete the steps, your manufacturer will likely have a newer update available if the installation date is longer than a year.
Update UEFI (BIOS) version on Windows 11
To find out if there is an update available for the BIOS, you have to refer to the steps mentioned above to see your device’s “System Manufacturer” and “System Model,” and then use that information to check your manufacturer’s support website to confirm if there is a newer update.
Usually, you need to locate the page of your motherboard (or device model for branded devices like Dell or HP) and then check for a section with information about the BIOS or UEFI update. This is an example of BIOS updates available for an X399 motherboard from ASRock.
On the page, you will see links to download the update and a link to the specific instructions to update the UEFI for this particular board.
If there is a new update, check the latest version against the version installed on your device. If the version is greater than the one you have, you should download the update.
Although there’s a standard concept on how to update the UEFI/BIOS, each brand has different ways to build its firmware. As a result, it’s critical to find and use the instructions outlined by your manufacturer.
Usually, you only have to download the installer, double-clicking an executable (.exe) file and following the on-screen directions. However, before the update, make sure to close any running application, and if you are working on a laptop, ensure that it’s plugged into a power source. Although it is often safe to update your system’s Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, if the computer loses power or you interfere with the process, it could make the computer unusable.
Other times, you will need to create a bootable media containing the ROM files that you can use to start the computer and apply the update.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].