When we run Microsoft Windows, or any other operating system, we use that system as a way of controlling our settings and getting the computer to run in the way that we want it to. We need something to run our programs and applications on, as well as a grand control that keeps our hardware devices configured.
BIOS is to Windows what Windows is to Microsoft Word. It's the base platform that everything else is built on. When you switch on your computer, BIOS - Basic Input Output System as it's known in its proper form - takes control of the boot process and runs through a checklist of settings to ensure that everything is running correctly. It deals with your hardware setup and recently installed devices. If BIOS encounters an error or a problem in the configuration, it will refuse to load the Operating System and we will typically end up plunged face to face with one of those nasty blue screens of death - or an option to reboot using the last known good configuration.
BIOS consists of a relatively small list of instructions that are executed one by one, and by changing the settings of our BIOS, we can dramatically change the way that the PC operates.
It's extremely important when editing the settings of your BIOS, that you know what you're doing and are fully aware of the wide reaching changes it can have. Getting locked out of Windows isn't a nice thought for the novice user!
Updating the BIOS isn't simple to begin with though, and it generally requires the use of a flashing technique which directly changes the settings on the motherboard. The BIOS memory chip is stored on the motherboard and can't be changed through Windows. You will need to download specific software that can be written on to a floppy disk and run from the boot start-up.
To do this though, you need to be aware of what BIOS you have installed. BIOS isn't a one size fits all technology. It varies from system to system and you will need to consult your documentation to find out which version of BIOS is present on your chip. Alternatively, assuming that you still have access to Windows, you can find the information in your system settings.
For Windows 98, go to Start, followed by Programs.
Select Accessories, then System and finally System Information.
You will see an option that says Windows Report Tool. Navigate to the Collected Information tab and then select the BIOS option. This will show your settings and model of BIOS.
If you're using Windows XP and more recent versions, the same options will be tucked away in a different place. Go to Start, then Programs, then Accessories.
Now System Tools, followed by System Information and then System Summary Section. You can now read off the relevant BIOS information and retrieve the model number.
Use this model number to locate the correct BIOS update packages using Google. There are many BIOS updates around, but it's important to get the right one - or indeed face the risk of getting locked out of Windows.
Always remember to make a backup of your BIOS before you attempt to make any updates.
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