How to Check Your BIOS Version in Windows (3 Easy Ways)

To check your BIOS version on Windows, press Windows + R, type msinfo32, press Enter, and read the line called “BIOS Version/Date” on the System Summary page. That takes about ten seconds and needs no software.

This guide shows that method, two command-line options, and how to read the version straight from the BIOS screen, so you know whether you need an update before you download anything.

Why check your BIOS version first?

Before you flash a new BIOS you need to know what you already have. If the version on your board already matches the newest one on the maker’s website, there is nothing to do. It also helps you pick the right file, which matters because flashing the wrong one is the most common cause of errors such as the one in our BIOS ID check error guide.

Method 1: System Information (msinfo32)

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run box.
2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
3. Stay on System Summary in the left panel.
4. Find BIOS Version/Date in the right panel. It shows the maker, the version and the date.

On the same page, “BaseBoard Manufacturer”, “BaseBoard Product” and “BaseBoard Version” tell you the exact board model, which you need when you go to download an update. If you see “System Manufacturer” and “System Model” instead, you probably have a prebuilt PC or laptop and should look for updates on the PC maker’s support page rather than the board maker’s.

Method 2: PowerShell or Command Prompt

If you prefer a command, open PowerShell and run:

Get-CimInstance Win32_BIOS | Select-Object SMBIOSBIOSVersion, ReleaseDate

This prints the BIOS version and its release date. Older guides use wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion in Command Prompt. That command works on many PCs but is deprecated and missing from some newer Windows builds, so use PowerShell if it is not found.

Method 3: Read it in the BIOS screen

Restart the PC and press the BIOS key shown on the boot screen. The key varies by maker, so look at the on-screen prompt. Once inside, the version is usually shown on the main or system information page. On GIGABYTE boards, the BIOS shows a version such as “F3k” on its information screens, as shown in the video footage above.

How to know if your BIOS is out of date

1. Write down your version and date.
2. Go to the support page for your exact board model on the maker’s website.
3. Open the BIOS tab and compare the newest version number and date with yours.
4. Read the release notes. Update only if the new version fixes something that affects you, such as CPU support or a stability problem.

Should you update your BIOS?

If your PC is stable, you do not have to update. A BIOS update can add support for new processors or fix bugs, but a failed update can leave the board unusable. Update when a release note describes a problem you actually have. When you do, follow your board maker’s own guide. Our Gigabyte BIOS update guide covers Q-Flash step by step.

If a BIOS update ever leaves a board unable to boot, the chip can still be recovered externally — our guide to flashing 1.8V BIOS chips with a CH341A walks through the whole process.

Laptops and prebuilt PCs: where to look

On a laptop or a prebuilt desktop, the BIOS is customised by the PC maker, so the version number in msinfo32 will match the maker’s support page for your exact model, not the page for the chip or board vendor. Search for your model number on the maker’s website, open the Drivers or Downloads section, and look under BIOS or Firmware. If the support page lists several versions, compare the number and date with yours before downloading anything.

Common problems when checking the BIOS version

• msinfo32 shows a long string instead of a short version. That is normal on some boards. Compare the full string with the one on the support page.
• The date looks very old. The date is the release date of the firmware, so an old date simply means you have not updated it, not that something is wrong.
• The command is not found. Use the PowerShell command or msinfo32 instead of wmic.
• The BIOS screen will not open. Try the key again straight after pressing the power button, or hold Shift and choose Restart in Windows, then pick UEFI Firmware Settings if it is listed.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check my BIOS version in Windows 11?

Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, press Enter, and read BIOS Version/Date on the System Summary page.

How do I check my BIOS version in Windows 10?

The same way. msinfo32 works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Can I check my BIOS version without restarting?

Yes. msinfo32 and PowerShell both read it while Windows is running.

What does the BIOS date mean?

It is the release date of the BIOS firmware currently on the board, not the date you installed it.

How do I find my motherboard model?

Check “BaseBoard Product” in msinfo32, or read the name printed on the board itself.

Do I need to update my BIOS?

Only if a newer version fixes a problem you have or adds support you need. If the PC runs well, leave it alone.

Is the BIOS the same as UEFI?

UEFI is the modern replacement for the old BIOS. Most people still call the firmware settings screen “the BIOS”.

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