How to Update BIOS on MSI Motherboard

How to update BIOS on MSI motherboard is an essential procedure that can enhance your system’s performance, add support for new hardware, and fix various stability issues. To start with, the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a crucial piece of firmware that acts as an intermediary between your computer’s hardware and its operating system. Therefore, keeping it up-to-date is important for maintaining compatibility with the latest technologies and improving overall system reliability.

Firstly, before initiating the update process, it is vital to gather the necessary tools and information. This includes downloading the latest BIOS version from MSI’s official website and preparing a USB flash drive formatted to FAT32. Once you have these preparations in place, you can proceed with the BIOS update using MSI’s M-Flash utility.

In the following sections, we will guide you through each step of how to update BIOS on an MSI motherboard, from preparation to execution. By carefully following these instructions, you will ensure a smooth and successful BIOS update, ultimately leading to a more stable and efficient system.

1. What is BIOS and Why Update It?

Updating the BIOS can be an essential task for maintaining and improving your computer’s performance. Firstly, BIOS updates often include fixes for bugs and stability issues that may affect system operation. Therefore, keeping your BIOS up-to-date can enhance the reliability of your system and resolve various hardware compatibility problems.

Moreover, how to update BIOS on an MSI motherboard involves ensuring compatibility with new hardware and technologies. For example, if you upgrade components like your CPU or RAM, an updated BIOS may be required to support these new parts effectively. In addition, BIOS updates can introduce new features or improvements that optimize system performance and security.

In summary, understanding how to update BIOS on an MSI motherboard is crucial for keeping your system running smoothly and efficiently. By performing regular updates, you can address hardware issues, support new technologies, and benefit from performance enhancements.

Why Update the BIOS?

• Improve system stability and performance.
• Resolve compatibility issues with new hardware (like CPUs, RAM, or GPUs).
• Fix bugs or security vulnerabilities.
• Introduce new features or enhancements.

However, updating the BIOS is a sensitive process. If something goes wrong, it could render the motherboard inoperable (a state known as “bricking”). This makes it essential to follow all instructions carefully.

The Risks of Updating the BIOS

However, updating the BIOS is a sensitive process. If something goes wrong, it could render the motherboard inoperable, a state known as “bricking.” This risk makes it essential to follow all instructions carefully, ensure a stable power supply during the update, and only proceed with the update if it is necessary for your system.

2. Preparing for the Update

Before you start the BIOS update, it is essential to prepare adequately to minimize any risk of failure. Here are some steps to follow:

Identify Your Motherboard Model

1. Locate Your Motherboard Model: The easiest way to find your motherboard model is to check the manual that came with it or look for a label directly on the motherboard.
2. Use System Information Tool:
   • Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
   • Look for the “BaseBoard Product” entry under “System Summary,” which lists the motherboard model.

Check the Current BIOS Version

To find the current BIOS version:

1. Open the Start menu, type msinfo32, and press Enter.
2. In the “System Information” window, look for the “BIOS Version entry. This shows the current BIOS version installed on your system.

Visit MSI’s Official Website

1. Go to the MSI Support page.
2. Enter your motherboard model in the search bar.
3. Navigate to the “Support” page for your motherboard model and select the “Driver & Utility” tab.
4. Go to the “BIOS” section and download the latest version available.

Prepare a USB Flash Drive

You will need a USB flash drive to update the BIOS. Ensure the USB drive:

• Has at least 8GB of storage capacity.
• Is formatted to FAT32.

To format the USB drive:

1. Insert the USB drive into your computer.
2. Open “File Explorer” and right-click on the USB drive.
3. Select “Format,” choose FAT32 as the file system, and click “Start.”

Backup Important Data

Although updating the BIOS does not usually affect the data stored on your hard drive, it’s a good practice to back up all important files before proceeding. This protects against unforeseen issues that might arise during the update process.

3. Methods to Update BIOS on MSI Motherboards

There are several methods to update the BIOS on an MSI motherboard:

Using MSI Dragon Center or MSI Center

MSI provides software tools like MSI Dragon Center (for gaming motherboards) or MSI Center (for all other motherboards) that can automatically update the BIOS from within the Windows environment. However, this method is not always recommended because it relies on the stability of the operating system.

Using M-Flash Utility

M-Flash is a built-in utility in MSI motherboards, accessible from the BIOS setup menu. This method is considered the safest and most reliable way to update the BIOS because it doesn’t rely on the operating system.

Using DOS-Based Utility

For advanced users, updating the BIOS using a DOS-based utility can be an option. This involves creating a bootable DOS USB drive and using a command-line utility to perform the update. However, this method is more complex and is generally not recommended for beginners.

Step-by-Step BIOS Update Using M-Flash

This section provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on updating the BIOS using the M-Flash utility, which is the most recommended method for MSI motherboards.

Step 1:  Upload the Latest BIOS File

1. Visit the MSI Support page and search for your motherboard model.
2. Download the latest BIOS version available for your motherboard.
3. Extract the downloaded .zip file to your computer.
4. Copy the extracted files (typically a file with a .xxx extension) to the root directory of your prepared USB flash drive.

2: Restore Your Computer and Enter the BIOS

1. Insert the USB flash drive into a USB port on your computer.
2. Restart your computer.
3. During the boot process, press the Delete key repeatedly to enter the BIOS setup utility. The key might differ slightly depending on the model, but “Delete” is commonly used for MSI motherboards.

3: Backup Existing BIOS Settings

1. Once in the BIOS, navigate to the Settings tab.
2. Select Save & Exit.
3. Choose the Save Profile option and save the current BIOS settings to a USB drive or your computer. This step ensures that you have a backup in case you need to restore the original settings.

4: Access the M-Flash Utility

1. Go back to the main BIOS screen.
2. Select the M-Flash option.
3. The system will prompt you to confirm the restart and enter the M-Flash mode. Click “Yes” to proceed.

5: Update the BIOS

1. In M-Flash mode, the system will automatically detect the USB drive.
2. Navigate to the BIOS file you copied to the USB drive earlier.
3. Select the BIOS file and confirm the update.
4. The update process will start, and it may take several minutes to complete. Do not turn off the computer or remove the USB drive during this process.

6: Restart Your Computer

1. After the update is complete, the system will prompt you to restart.
2. Remove the USB drive and restart your computer.
3. Upon reboot, press the Delete key to enter the BIOS again.
4. Load the default settings by selecting Load Optimized Defaults (usually found under the Settings tab).
5. Save and exit the BIOS setup.

7: Verify the BIOS Update

1. Once the system has booted back into Windows, check the BIOS version again using the msinfo32 tool to ensure the update was successful.

5. Common Issues and Troubleshooting

While updating the BIOS is generally straightforward, problems can sometimes occur. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:

System Won’t Boot After Update

• Solution: Reset the CMOS by removing the motherboard battery for a few minutes, then reinserting it. This will restore the BIOS settings to default.

Power Failure During Update

• Solution: If a power failure occurs during the update, the motherboard may become “bricked.” In this case, you will need to use a recovery method such as a BIOS flashback (if supported) or seek professional repair services.

Incompatible BIOS Version

• Solution: Ensure you are using the correct BIOS file for your specific motherboard model. Downloading the wrong BIOS version can lead to system instability or failure.

BIOS Update Freezes or Hangs

Solution: If the BIOS update process freezes or hangs, restart the computer and try the process again. If the issue persists, try using a different USB drive or check the downloaded BIOS file for corruption

6. Safety Precautions and Tips

1. Ensure a Stable Power Supply

• Use a Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Ensure your computer is connected to a reliable power source. If possible, use a UPS to prevent power interruptions during the update. A power outage during a BIOS update can corrupt the firmware and potentially “brick” the motherboard.

2. Verify Your Motherboard Model and BIOS Version

• Check Your Current BIOS Version: Before downloading any updates, confirm your current BIOS version. This can be done by entering the BIOS setup during startup (DEL key) or checking in Windows using msinfo32 in the Run dialog.
• Download the Correct BIOS File: Make sure to download the BIOS file specifically designed for your exact motherboard model. Using the wrong file can cause irreversible damage.

3. Backup Your Important Data

• Backup Data: Although updating the BIOS generally does not affect data on your hard drives, there is a small risk of data corruption or system failure. Ensure all critical data is backed up to an external drive or cloud storage.

4. Avoid Interruptions During the Update

• Do Not Power Off or Restart the PC: Never turn off or restart your computer during a BIOS update. Interruptions can corrupt the BIOS and render the motherboard unusable.
• Close All Applications: Before starting the update, close all running applications, and ensure no background processes might interfere with the update process.

5. Use a Reliable USB Drive

• Format to FAT32: Use a USB flash drive formatted to FAT32, as this format is compatible with the BIOS update utility. Avoid using old or unreliable USB drives, as corrupted files on the drive could interrupt the update process.
• Do Not Use External HDDs: Stick to USB flash drives, as some motherboards may have trouble detecting external HDDs or large-capacity storage devices during the update.

6. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

• Read the Official Guide: Always follow the steps outlined by MSI in their official documentation. MSI provides detailed guides on how to update the BIOS, usually available on their website.
• Use MSI Tools: Use the BIOS update tools provided by MSI, such as M-Flash or MSI Dragon Center, to ensure compatibility and reduce risks.

7. Check for Compatibility and Purpose

• Update Only When Necessary: Only update the BIOS if it is necessary to fix a specific issue, support new hardware, or improve performance. Unnecessary updates may carry risks without providing any benefits.
• Check Compatibility: Ensure that the new BIOS version is compatible with your hardware, especially if you have older components.

8. Understand the Risks

• Know the Risks: Be aware that while BIOS updates are generally safe when performed correctly, there is always a small risk involved. Problems such as power loss, incorrect files, or other interruptions can cause the motherboard to malfunction.

9. Have a Recovery Plan

• Know the Recovery Options: Familiarize yourself with the BIOS recovery options available for your motherboard. Some MSI motherboards have features like BIOS Flashback that allow you to recover the BIOS even if the update fails.
• Prepare a Backup BIOS (if applicable): Some motherboards have a secondary BIOS chip that can be used for recovery in case of failure. Check your motherboard’s manual to see if this feature is available.

10. Update During Low-Risk Times

• Avoid Updating During Storms: Avoid updating the BIOS during periods when there might be power surges or outages, such as during storms.
• Minimize Distractions: Choose a time when you won’t be interrupted, and avoid multitasking on the computer while performing the update.

11. Keep the System Cool

• Monitor Temperature: Ensure your system is not overheating during the update process. Use tools like MSI Afterburner to monitor temperatures and ensure all cooling components are functioning correctly.

12. Double-Check Before Starting

• Confirm Everything: Before starting the update, double-check that you have the correct BIOS file, your USB is properly prepared, and that you understand the steps involved.

13. Load Optimized Defaults After the Update

• Reset BIOS Settings: After the update, enter the BIOS setup again and load the optimized defaults (F7 or F9). This ensures the system is running with stable settings.

14. Update One Step at a Time

• Do Not Skip Versions: If the BIOS update page lists multiple versions, update incrementally rather than skipping multiple versions at once. This reduces the risk of missing important updates that could affect stability.

15. Contact MSI Support if Unsure

• Get Help When Needed: If you are unsure about any part of the process or if you encounter any issues, contact MSI Support for guidance.

FAQs

conclusion

In conclusion, understanding how to update BIOS on an MSI motherboard is essential for maintaining optimal system performance and compatibility. Firstly, performing a BIOS update can resolve various issues, such as system instability and hardware incompatibility, while also enhancing overall efficiency. Therefore, knowing the correct procedure ensures that your motherboard can fully support new hardware and benefit from the latest firmware improvements.

Moreover, the update process, when executed correctly, is straightforward and manageable with MSI’s M-Flash utility. By following the detailed steps—such as preparing the USB drive, downloading the correct BIOS version, and carefully applying the update—you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a successful update.

Ultimately, mastering how to update BIOS on an MSI motherboard empowers you to keep your system running smoothly and securely. In summary, this knowledge not only helps in troubleshooting and upgrading but also in ensuring that your computer remains in top condition for all your computing needs.