What Are Best Methods To Update ASRock BIOS?

The best methods to update an ASRock BIOS involve two primary approaches: using the Windows version of the BIOS update file and utilizing either Instant Flash or DOS versions when needed. Here's a concise summary of the processes:

Using the Windows Version of the BIOS Update File

1. Check your motherboard model and current BIOS version using System Information (Windows key + R, type "msinfo32", and press Enter), entering the UEFI/BIOS directly, or using software like CPU-Z.
2. Visit ASRock's support page, find your motherboard, and download the appropriate BIOS update file.
3. Extract the downloaded BIOS file, locate BIOSfilename.exe, right-click, and choose 'Run as Administrator'.
4. Confirm the restart prompt; wait for the BIOS update process to finish.
5. After restart, press F2 to enter the BIOS setup utility during boot up.
6. Choose 'Load Default Settings', then 'Exit Saving Changes' to save changes and exit the BIOS setup utility.
7. Your system should now boot up with the new BIOS.

Using Instant Flash or DOS Versions

For these methods, you'll need a FAT32-formatted USB drive.

Instant Flash

1. On a working PC, download and extract the ASRock BIOS update file of the Instant Flash version.
2. Save the BIOS files on the FAT32-formatted USB drive.
3. Insert the USB drive into the PC needing the BIOS update.
4. Press F2 during POST to enter the BIOS setup menu.
5. Select the Instant Flash utility under the Tool menu to execute it.
6. Instant Flash will list suitable BIOS versions for your motherboard; select the appropriate version and click "Yes" to flash the BIOS.
7. Restart the PC and load default settings.

DOS Version

1. Create a bootable system USB pen drive.
2. Download and extract the ASRock BIOS update file, then place it into the bootable pen drive.
3. Boot the PC from the pen drive.
4. At the "A:" prompt, type BIOSfile.exe followed by pressing Enter.
5. Let the program find the model name, then press any key to reboot.
6. After system restart, the BIOS will auto-update. Load default settings once the update completes.

Remember never to power down your system during a BIOS update, as this could lead to motherboard failure requiring servicing. Repeat the process if issues persist, but avoid turning off the system midway through the update.