Ultimate Guide: Understanding What BIOS Is [Save up to 99% of Time]

Have you ever read an article about changing or checking your computer's settings that mentioned the “BIOS,” but then never explained it because it's on your computer's motherboard? This guide will explain everything you need to know about the Basic Input/Output System, how to access it, and how to update it.

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BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a firmware component within a computer that performs basic hardware initialization and system setup during boot-up. It acts as a bridge between the operating system and the hardware, detecting and configuring components like the CPU, memory, hard drive, keyboard, mouse, and more, and loading the boot loader to start the operating system. Key functions of BIOS include: 1. Power-On Self Test (POST): Checks the computer's hardware for proper functioning at startup. 2. Configuration: Allows users to alter system settings through the BIOS setup utility, such as date, time, and hardware configurations. 3. Boot Loading: Locates and loads the operating system's boot sector to initiate the OS. 4. Interrupt Services: Provides low-level hardware control and services for the operating system and other software to access. BIOS is typically stored in a flash memory chip on the motherboard and can be updated by manufacturers to fix errors or add new features. With technological advancements, some modern computers have adopted UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) as an alternative to BIOS, offering enhanced features and a graphical user interface.

The History of the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS)

BIOS code was created early on in the life of computers. The term "BIOS" was coined by Gary Kildall and appeared in the CP/M operating system in 1975, denoting a specific boot section designed for direct loading. It was intended to be simple and user-friendly. Over time, BIOS code has evolved to become more complex and feature-rich. Nowadays, BIOS code is used for configuring hardware devices, enabling security features, and supporting new technologies.

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a crucial component in computers, primarily responsible for performing basic hardware initialization during boot-up and providing an interface between the operating system and the hardware. Here are the main purposes of BIOS: 1. Power-On Self-Test (POST): When the computer is turned on, BIOS runs POST to check if hardware components like the CPU, memory, and hard disk are functioning correctly. 2. Hardware Configuration: BIOS enables users to configure hardware devices through a setup program (commonly known as BIOS settings or CMOS settings), such as setting the boot order, hardware drive parameters, etc. 3. Boot Loader: BIOS is responsible for loading the boot sector of the operating system from the selected boot device (like a hard disk, USB drive, or CD/DVD) and passing control to the operating system. 4. Interrupt Services: BIOS provides a set of low-level interrupt services that allow the operating system and applications to access hardware functionalities, like keyboard input, screen output, and disk read/write operations. 5. Compatibility Support: BIOS helps ensure compatibility and stability of new and old hardware across different operating systems. 6. Power Management and Wake-up Functions: BIOS manages the computer's power states, such as hibernation and sleep modes, and handles system wake-up events. It's worth noting that with technological advancements, many modern computers have adopted UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) instead of traditional BIOS. However, their core functions remain similar, both serving to provide fundamental system booting and hardware management.

The BIOS checks all your hardware to make sure it's working and loads the operating system. It's essential, but most users don't need to worry about it. The BIOS is usually set up to work automatically with no need to change anything.

How does the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) work?

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the first software program that runs when you start your computer. When you turn on your PC, the BIOS first checks the hardware to ensure everything is working correctly. It then initializes and identifies all hardware in the system. Next, it loads the operating system into memory and passes control over to it. Lastly, the BIOS provides various services to the operating system and applications throughout the computer's operation, such as power management, hardware configuration, and boot management.

Main functions

The BIOS tests and initializes the computer before booting, identifies system hardware, loads the operating system, and provides runtime services.

BIOS vs UEFI

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) and UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) are two different types of firmware used to boot up a computer. BIOS is an older firmware type, while UEFI is newer. Both BIOS and UEFI are responsible for initializing the computer's hardware and starting the operating system. However, there are some key differences between them.

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BIOS is based on the master/slave device concept, where the BIOS is the master and other devices are slaves. The BIOS is stored in Read-Only Memory (ROM), which means it can't be changed or updated without replacing the chip. In contrast, UEFI is based on a driver model, where each device has a driver that works with UEFI to initialize hardware and boot the operating system. UEFI is stored in flash memory, which can be easily updated.

Startup Speed:

UEFI is faster than BIOS because it doesn't have to go through as many steps.

User Interface:

UEFI also supports larger storage drives, and it uses a graphical user interface, rather than a text-based one, for setup.

BIOS is limited to 2 TB disks, whereas UEFI can handle larger ones.

For more information, see:

How to Enter BIOS on Windows 10 and Windows 11

The method for entering BIOS varies from computer system to motherboard, but there are a few general tips that can help you out.

How to Enter BIOS Using a Hotkey

To enter BIOS, you'll first need to restart your computer. As your computer boots up, press the key displayed on-screen to enter BIOS. This is usually a key in the F series (like F1 or F2), but it could also be DEL, or another key depending on your computer model.

• ASUS: F2, DEL key
• Dell: F2, F12
• Lenovo: F2, Fn+F2
• Hewlett-Packard (HP): F10, F2, F12, F1, DEL key
• Msi: DEL key

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Title: Enabling Legacy BIOS in Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide Introduction: In the world of computers, BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) plays a crucial role in initializing and booting up the system. With the advent of UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface), modern computers have shifted from traditional BIOS. However, there may be instances where you need to access or enable Legacy BIOS for specific hardware compatibility or software requirements. This article will guide you through the process of enabling Legacy BIOS on a Windows operating system. Step 1: Accessing the Boot Menu 1.1 Restart your computer and enter the Boot Menu: - To do this, restart your PC and press the appropriate key during startup. Common keys to access the Boot Menu are F2, F10, F12, or Del, but it may vary depending on your computer manufacturer. Check your motherboard manual or look for on-screen instructions for the correct key. Step 2: Entering the BIOS Setup Utility 2.1 Once you've accessed the Boot Menu, select "Enter Setup" or "BIOS Setup" using the arrow keys and press Enter. 2.2 You might be prompted to enter a password if one is set. If not, proceed directly to the BIOS settings. Step 3: Identifying the BIOS Type 3.1 In the BIOS Setup Utility, look for information that indicates whether your system is using UEFI or Legacy BIOS. This could be under "System Information," "System Configuration," or a similar section. 3.2 If your system is using UEFI, you'll likely see options like "Secure Boot" or "UEFI Boot Mode." If it's already in Legacy BIOS, you can skip to Step 5. Step 4: Switching from UEFI to Legacy BIOS 4.1 To switch from UEFI to Legacy BIOS, you need to disable Secure Boot and enable CSM (Compatibility Support Module). 4.2 Navigate to the "Security" or "Boot" tab, and find the "Secure Boot" option. Disable it by selecting "Disabled." 4.3 Next, go to the "Boot" or "Legacy Support" section and change the "Boot Mode" to "Legacy" or "CSM Boot." Enable the CSM option if it's available. Step 5: Save and Exit 5.1 After making the necessary changes, save the settings and exit the BIOS Setup Utility. Typically, you can choose "Save & Exit" or "Exit with Changes" and then confirm your choice. 5.2 Your computer will now restart with the newly configured Legacy BIOS settings. Note: Enabling Legacy BIOS might affect the boot order and performance of your system. Make sure you understand the implications before making any changes. Additionally, always keep a backup of important data in case something goes wrong during the process. Conclusion: Enabling Legacy BIOS in Windows is a straightforward process that requires accessing the BIOS Setup Utility, identifying the current BIOS type, and making the necessary adjustments. Remember to exercise caution when altering system settings, as incorrect configurations can lead to issues. With these steps, you should now be able to successfully enable Legacy BIOS on your Windows computer.

With so many manufacturers now offering UEFI-based PCs, it seems like a trend that's here to stay, so why do so many people continue to use BIOS-based PCs? Especially since they know that UEFI is more secure and faster.

If you're not planning to upgrade your computer to the latest Windows 11 anytime soon and would rather stick with Windows 10 or an older system, BIOS is a better option for you. Follow these three steps to access it.

Phase 1: Check if the system uses legacy BIOS or UEFI

Step 1: Press the "Windows + R" keys, type "msinfo32" in the box, and then press Enter.

Step 2: In the System Information window, look to the right for the BIOS Mode.

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Stage 2: Use MBR for BIOS and convert the operating system disk to MBR

If you need to change your computer's BIOS mode from UEFI to Legacy, you first need to convert your operating system disk to MBR.

Step 1: Verify the disk partition style is GPT or MBR

Right-click the “Windows” icon, select “Disk Management”, then right-click the target disk and select “Properties” to view the partition style of the volume.

Check the partition style

【More Information】 How to Tell if Windows Is GPT or MBR

Step 2: Convert GPT to MBR

This can be done using the Disk Management tool in Windows, but it requires deleting all existing volumes and changing the partition style. To prevent data loss, you need a more efficient method to safely convert the partition style without deleting partitions.

This can be quickly done using a Windows disk converter, i.e., the disk partitioning tool.

With this secure disk converter, you can save up to 80% of your time instead of using the built-in Windows software. Besides, the tool also supports converting MBR to GPT in BIOS.

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How to Convert GPT to MBR:

1. Click "Disk Converter" from the left menu. Select "Convert GPT to MBR," then click "Next" to proceed. 2. Choose the GPT disk you wish to convert, then click "Convert." 3. Wait for the conversion process to complete.

Step 3: Change the BIOS mode from UEFI to Legacy

Step 1. Access the BIOS setup utility.

Step 2. Select Boot from the BIOS screen.

Step 3: Use the arrow keys to select the UEFI/BIOS mode, then press Enter.

4. Use the arrow keys to select “Legacy” and press Enter. Press F10 to save the changes and exit.

[Related Article] How to Change BIOS Mode from Legacy to UEFI

How to Update the BIOS

A BIOS update can improve your computer's stability and fix errors that might be causing problems. In some cases, you might need to update your BIOS to take advantage of new features or support new hardware.

Prepare - Check the BIOS and motherboard versions

1. Press the "Windows key + R" and type "msinfo32" in the box. Hit Enter. 2. Check the "BIOS Version/Date" as well as the Motherboard Manufacturer/Product/Version info.

Steps to update BIOS on any PC

Keeping your BIOS up-to-date is essential for ensuring that your computer runs at its best. Luckily, updating your BIOS is a simple process that takes only a few minutes.

Step 1. You will need to download the update from your computer manufacturer's website: (Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo)

Step 2: Once the download is complete, extract the files and double-click the executable file. This will start the update process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update, then restart your computer.

That's it! Keeping your BIOS up to date ensures that your computer is running at its best.

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Troubleshooting BIOS Errors

Error 1: The hard drive is recognized in BIOS but not in Windows

One of the most frustrating computer issues is when a hard drive is recognized in BIOS but not in Windows. There can be several reasons for this, but fortunately, there are a few methods you can try to get it working again.

Solution: Hard Drive Recognized in BIOS But Not in Windows 10

Error 2: Hard drive not detected in BIOS

If your hard drive isn't showing up in BIOS, there could be several reasons for this. First, ensure that the power cable and data cable are properly connected to the hard drive. If they're not connected securely, this could be why BIOS isn't detecting it. Proceed with the advanced troubleshooting steps.

Solution: Hard drive not detected in BIOS

In short,

What does BIOS stand for? BIOS is a crucial component of any computer system responsible for initializing hardware and booting the operating system. It also manages power settings and provides basic input/output functions. Issues with the BIOS can lead to various problems, such as preventing a computer from starting up properly. Understanding how the BIOS works is instrumental in troubleshooting BIOS errors. With this knowledge, you'll be able to identify and fix many common BIOS issues.