The quickest way to check your BIOS

On Windows, press the Windows key and type "System Information" into the search box, then open it. Look for the line that says "BIOS Version/Date" — that's your answer. On Mac, click the Apple menu, select "About This Mac", then click "System Report" and look for "Boot ROM Version". On Linux, open a terminal and type sudo dmidecode -s bios-version to see your BIOS version.

These methods show you what version you have right now without opening your computer or changing anything. If you need to see more details about your BIOS settings — like boot order, security features, or hardware configuration — you'll need to enter the BIOS setup screen itself, which requires restarting your computer.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows users can find their BIOS version instantly through System Information without restarting.
  • Entering the BIOS setup screen requires restarting and pressing a specific key (usually Delete, F2, or F12) before Windows loads.
  • The key you need to press varies by manufacturer — Dell, HP, Lenovo, and ASUS each use different keys.
  • Your BIOS version number tells you when the firmware was last updated, which matters for security patches and hardware compatibility.

Entering BIOS setup on Windows

To see your actual BIOS settings and configuration, you need to restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup screen before Windows loads. Restart your computer, and as soon as it powers on, start pressing a specific key repeatedly — the key depends on your computer's manufacturer. For Dell computers, press F2. For HP and Lenovo, press F2 or Delete. For ASUS, press Delete or F2. For Acer, press Delete. If you're not sure of your manufacturer, try Delete or F2 first, as these are the most common.

You have only a few seconds to press the key before Windows starts loading, so you may need to try a few times. If you miss the window, restart again and try pressing the key faster. Once you're in the BIOS setup screen, you'll see menus for boot order, security settings, hardware information, and system time. Use the arrow keys to navigate and Enter to select options. To exit without saving changes, look for an "Exit" option and select "Discard Changes".

Entering BIOS setup on Mac

Mac computers use firmware called EFI or UEFI instead of traditional BIOS, but you can still access settings the same way. Restart your Mac and hold down the Command and R keys together immediately after you hear the startup sound. Keep holding until you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe. This takes you to Recovery Mode, where you can see firmware information and some settings.

For deeper firmware access on newer Macs with Apple Silicon chips, you'll need to use the Startup Security Utility, which is accessed through Recovery Mode. Older Intel-based Macs let you hold Command-Option-P-R to reset the NVRAM (non-volatile RAM), which stores some firmware settings. If you're not comfortable with these steps, Apple's support site has detailed instructions specific to your Mac model.

What to look for in your BIOS information

The BIOS version number tells you when your firmware was last updated. A date that's several years old might mean you're missing security patches or support for newer hardware. The BIOS version also helps you know whether an update is available — you can check your computer manufacturer's support page and search for your model number plus "BIOS update" to see if a newer version exists.

In the BIOS setup screen itself, you'll find settings for boot order (which device your computer tries to start from first), secure boot (a security feature that prevents unauthorized software from loading), and hardware diagnostics. You'll also see information about your RAM, storage drives, and processor. Most users never need to change these settings, but knowing where they are helps if you're troubleshooting a problem or installing a new operating system.

Why your BIOS version matters

BIOS updates fix security vulnerabilities, improve hardware compatibility, and sometimes add new features. If your BIOS is several years old and your computer is having problems with a new device or software, an update might solve it. Security updates are especially important — vulnerabilities in firmware can let attackers bypass your operating system's protections entirely.

However, BIOS updates carry a small risk: if the update fails or your computer loses power during the update, your computer may not start at all. For this reason, manufacturers recommend updating only when you have a stable power source (plugged in, not on battery) and when you're not in a hurry. Most people update their BIOS only when they have a specific reason — a new device isn't working, or a security advisory mentions their computer model.

Checking BIOS on a computer you just bought

New computers often ship with BIOS versions from months before the purchase date. Checking your BIOS version is a good first step after setting up a new computer. Use the System Information method above to see what version you have, then visit your manufacturer's support page to see if updates are available. Many manufacturers have a tool that checks for updates automatically — Dell has Dell Update, HP has HP Support Assistant, and Lenovo has Lenovo Vantage.

If updates are available, run them while your computer is plugged in and you have time to restart. Some updates require multiple restarts. After updating, restart your computer and check System Information again to confirm the new version is installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to update my BIOS?

BIOS updates are generally safe when done correctly — plug in your computer, close all programs, and don't interrupt the update. The risk is very small but real: a power loss or interruption during the update can make your computer unbootable. Update only when you have a specific reason and a stable power source.

What if I can't find the BIOS key for my computer?

Check your computer's manual or visit the manufacturer's support page for your specific model number. You can also try the most common keys: Delete, F2, F10, and F12. If none of those work, search online for "[Your Brand] [Your Model] BIOS key" — you'll usually find the answer within seconds.

Can I change my BIOS password if I forgot it?

This depends on your computer model and security settings. Some computers let you reset the BIOS password by removing the CMOS battery inside the computer for a few minutes, but this requires opening the case. Others require you to contact the manufacturer with proof of ownership. Check your manufacturer's support page for your specific model.

Does checking my BIOS version slow down my computer?

No. Checking your BIOS version through System Information takes a few seconds and has no effect on performance. Entering the BIOS setup screen also doesn't affect performance — it's just a configuration tool that runs before your operating system loads.