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How to update your PC BIOS

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Every computer has its BIOS, short for Basic Input/Output System), which is a firmware installed on the PC’s motherboard. Through the BIOS you may initialize and configure hardware components (CPU, RAM, hard disk, etc.). Let’s say it’s a kind of translator or bridge between computer hardware and software. Its main functions are:

  • Initialize the hardware.
  • Detect and load the bootloader and operating system.
  • Configure multiple parameters of your PC such as boot sequence, time and date, RAM times and CPU voltage.
  • Set up security mechanisms like a password to restrict access to your PC.

Importance of understanding how to access and update the BIOS

Since its main function is to initialize and check that all the hardware components of your PC are working properly, if everything is working correctly, BIOS looks for the operating system on the hard drive or other boot device connected to your PC. However, accessing‌ BIOS may be an unknown process for many users, preventing its update, which can guarantee the performance of the equipment and its security. Later in this blog we will explain how to access BIOS.

Clarification on the non-routine nature of BIOS updates

It is recommended to update BIOS to maintain performance, stability and computer security. Your PC manufacturer can send BIOS updates to add features or fix some bugs. The process is overall simple, but it must be done with great care to avoid irreversible damage. Also, it should be avoided to turn off or cut off the power in the middle of an upgrade process with serious consequences for the equipment.

Accessing the BIOS from Windows

To access BIOS, there are several options, from the following buttons, depending on the brand of your computer:

  • Dell: F2 or F12
  • HP: F10
  • Lenovo: F2, Fn + F2, F1, or Enter followed by F1
  • Asus: F9, F10 or Delete
  • Acer: F2 or Delete
  • Microsoft Surface: Hold the volume up button pressed
  • Samsung/Toshiba/Intel/ASRock/Origin PC: F2
  • MSI/Gigabyte/EVGA/Zotac/BIOStar: Delete

Instructions for accessing the BIOS from Windows 10 or 11 through Settings and the Advanced Start option

Just follow these instructions:

  • Restart your computer and wait for the manufacturer’s logo to appear.
  • Press the key one of the keys mentioned above when viewing the home screen to access the BIOS settings.
  • Once in the BIOS, you may navigate through the different options using the arrow keys on your keyboard.

You may also follow this process in Windows 11:

  • On the login or lock screen, press the Shift key on your keyboard and tap the power button (or click the power option at the bottom right of the login screen). Then choose the Reset option from the menu.
  • When Windows 11 restarts, you will be shown the advanced startup screen (choose an option).
  • Then scroll to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > UEFI Firmware Settings and click Restart.

Since BIOS configuration can have an impact on the operation of your PC, it is recommended to seek help from a professional.

Alternatives to using the Windows 10 and 11 method if the operating system loads too fast to access BIOS.

An alternative to start Win11 BIOS configuration is from the Settings application. Just follow these three steps:

  • Open Windows 11 Settings
  • Navigate to System > Recovery > Restart now.
  • Before you click Restart Now , save your work.
  • Next, go to Troubleshooting > Advanced Options > UEFI Firmware Configuration and click Restart. (we will talk about UEFI later in this blog post)

Another alternative is to use the Windows Run command:

  • Open up the Run box (by pressing the Windows + R keys).
  • Then type shutdown /r /o , and press Enter . A shortcut is to type shutdown /r/o/f /t 00 and click OK .
  • Then select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > UEFI Firmware Configuration and click Restart to boot into the system BIOS settings.

By the command line, also:

  • Open CMD, PowerShell or Terminal.
  • Type in shutdown /r /o /f /t 00 o shutdown /r /o and press Enter.
  • Then go to Troubleshooting > Advanced Options > UEFI Firmware Configuration and click Restart to get to the Windows 11 BIOS/UEFI configuration.

A more customized option is by shortcut:

  • Right-click on the Windows 11 desktop and select New > Shortcut.
  • In window Create Shortcut, enter shutdown /r/o /f /t 00 or shutdown /r /o to locate it.
  • Follow the instructions to create a BIOS shortcut.

Once the BIOS configuration shortcut is created, just double-click it and choose Troubleshooting > Advanced Options > UEFI Firmware Configuration and click Restart to boot your PC into the BIOS environment.

What does UEFI stand for?

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) has emerged as the most modern and flexible firmware with new features that go hand in hand with today’s needs for more volume and more speed. UEFI supports larger hard drives and faster boot times.

UEFI advantages:

  • Easy to program since it uses the C programming language. With this programming language you may initialize several devices at once and have much faster booting times.
  • More security, based on Secure Boot mode.
  • Faster, as it can run in 32-bit or 64-bit mode and has more addressable address space than BIOS, resulting in a faster booting process.
  • Make remote support. easier. It allows booting over the network, and may also carry different interfaces in the same firmware. A PC that cannot be booted into the operating system can also be accessed remotely for troubleshooting and maintenance.
  • Safe booting, as you may check the validity of the operating system to prevent or check if any malware tampered with the booting process.
  • More features and ability to add programs. You may also associate drivers (you would no longer have to load them into the operating system), which is a major advantage in agility.
  • Modular, since modifications can be made in parts without affecting the rest.
  • CPU microcode independence.
  • Support for larger storage drives, with up to 128 partitions.

Additionally, UEFI can emulate old BIOSes in case you need to install on old operating systems.

Continued use of the “BIOS” term to refer to UEFI for simplicity

BIOS is still used to initialize and check the hardware components of a computer to ensure proper operation. Also, as we have seen, it allows you to customize PC behavior (which boots first, for example). So BIOS is still helpful in troubleshooting issues that prevent the PC from booting properly.

When should you update your BIOS?

Reasons to perform a BIOS update

Updating the BIOS (or UEFI), as we mentioned before, helps the system work with better performance, in addition to checking and adjusting the installed hardware, which in turn ultimately impacts software operation. It is recommended to update BIOS only if there is a necessary improvement in the new version.
Sometimes, it is necessary to update BIOS so that the motherboard supports the use of a new generation processor or other type of hardware.

Warning about the potential risks of a BIOS update

The recommendation to update BIOS only when it is a necessary part of the possibility that the updating process​ fails, leaving your computer inoperable (!). Another risk is data loss if something fails during the upgrade (a connection outage, power, incomplete process). It considers that there may be unexpected errors that may result in a direct impact on the operation ‌of your computer. That is why it is recommended to ask for professional support to do so.

How to update your BIOS

Although each manufacturer recommends a process and their own tools for updating BIOS, you may say that the first step is always to back up the most critical data on your computer, in case something goes wrong in the process (hopefully not!). To do so, the following is recommended:

Identification of the motherboard model and BIOS using Windows system information

The BIOS update is based on the model data of the motherboard or computer. To find out, press the Windows key on your PC and type System Information . The service window will open in which all the details of the installed software will be listed. You will see the System Model and BIOS Version and Date, for the BIOS manufacturer’s name, BIOS version, and release date. With this data you will know which version of the BIOS to download (it must be later than the one you installed).

However, the most common method of updating BIOS is through an update wizard program, which takes you by the hand throughout the update process and runs from the operating system. Only indicate where the BIOS update file is located and restart the PC.

Steps to download and install the BIOS update according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Generally, the manufacturer of the motherboard of your PC has not only an update wizard program but also the BIOS update file, such as the wizard program itself, which you may download from the support page of the manufacturer of your computer or motherboard.
Once you obtain the BIOS installation wizard and the latest version of the BIOS, download them to your computer. It is important to mention that it is not recommended to use Beta versions of BIOS updates. It is preferable to keep the latest stable version, even if it is older.
Let the update wizard take you by the hand and use the BIOS update file to indicate that this is the new firmware to be installed. In case the downloaded update file is invalid or more updated to what you already have installed, the wizard software will detect it and will not perform the update.
Once this is done, restart your PC. We recommend that you check the main settings, checking that the date and time are correct, the boot order is correct (i.e. which hard drive is checked first for a Windows installation) and check that everything else is correct.
Now, you may continue working with the new BIOS version.

BIOS Update Considerations

Before making any BIOS updates, it is always recommended to back up the data so that this does not become your nightmare. For BIOS update, please consider these considerations:

  • Updating the BIOS generally does not improve performance, so it should be done only if necessary.
  • As we have seen, there are several methods for updating the BIOS, increasingly intuitive such as those in which the manufacturer itself offers an update wizard program that takes you by the hand throughout the process. It is important to follow the instructions that the manufacturer of your equipment indicates to prevent it from becoming unusable.
  • Always investigate BIOS corruption recovery options and have that information handy. That is: get ready for any contingency. Many times, despite precautionary measures, the upgrade may fail, either due to incompatibility issues or an unfortunate blackout or power outage. Should that happen, and if the PC is still working, do not turn off the computer. Close the flash update tool and restart the update process to see if it works. If you made a BIOS backup dtry selecting this file to recover it.

Also some motherboards have backup BIOSes that help restore the BIOS. Or, the manufacturer sells BIOS chips from its online store, at a good price.
Finally, we would like to repeat once again the recommendation that you rely on an expert to update the BIOS.

Olivia Diaz

Market analyst and writer with +30 years in the IT market for demand generation, ranking and relationships with end customers, as well as corporate communication and industry analysis.

Analista de mercado y escritora con más de 30 años en el mercado TIC en áreas de generación de demanda, posicionamiento y relaciones con usuarios finales, así como comunicación corporativa y análisis de la industria.

Analyste du marché et écrivaine avec plus de 30 ans d’expérience dans le domaine informatique, particulièrement la demande, positionnement et relations avec les utilisateurs finaux, la communication corporative et l’anayse de l’indutrie.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About PandoraFMS
Pandora FMS is a flexible monitoring system, capable of monitoring devices, infrastructures, applications, services and business processes.
Of course, one of the things that Pandora FMS can control is the hard disks of your computers.

How to share your Wi-Fi password

Access to a fast internet connection through Wi-Fi has become indispensable in both our professional and personal lives. Consequently, it’s now common for us to want to share Wi-Fi access with colleagues at work and loved ones at home so they can easily connect to the Internet at high speeds as well.

Contents:

However, with threats like Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks and Packet Sniffing, where cybercriminals try to intercept or manipulate communication, sharing Wi-Fi passwords must be done cautiously. So, in this article, we’ll explore a few safe and convenient methods for sharing Wi-Fi passwords.

How to share a Wi-Fi password on iPhone, iPad and MacBook

Sharing a Wi-Fi password between Apple devices, such as iPhone, iPad, and MacBook, is quite straightforward — especially if the devices are up-to-date with the latest iOS, iPadOS, or macOS versions. In fact, the entire sharing process can be completed in three easy steps. They are:

  1. Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on both Apple devices and keep them nearby.

  2. Select the Wi-Fi network on the device you want to connect.

  3. A prompt will appear on the other device sharing the password. Tap Share Password, then tap Done.

How to share a Wi-Fi password on Android devices

Sharing a Wi-Fi password using an Android device can also be done without too much effort. There are two ways you can approach it:

  1. Create a QR code

    If your device is running an Android 10 system or higher, you can share your Wi-Fi password by creating a QR code. For that, go to Settings and access your device’s Wi-Fi settings. Next, tap the gear or information icon next to the Wi-Fi network for which you want to share your password and select Share to generate a QR code. The person seeking Wi-Fi access can either scan the QR code using their device’s camera or navigate to the device’s Wi-Fi settings, select Add network, and then scan the code.

  2. Use the Nearby Share feature

    Access your device’s Wi-Fi settings, select the network you wish to share, and then choose Nearby or Nearby Share. Your device will scan for nearby devices, enabling you to choose the one you want to share Wi-Fi access with. The recipient will receive a connection request on their device, which they’ll need to accept to get access to the Wi-Fi network.

How to share a Wi-Fi password on Windows devices

As far as we are aware, there’s no quick and easy method available to share Wi-Fi passwords from Windows devices at the moment. This means that to share your password with someone, you’ll need to provide it to them directly or use third-party software for that. If you’ve forgotten your Wi-Fi password, you can retrieve it by following these steps:

  1. Go to Windows settings and choose the Network & Internet tab.

  2. Navigate to the Network and Sharing Center.

  3. Locate the network for which you want to share the password.

  4. Click on Wireless Network Properties.

  5. Access the Security tab and click on the Show characters box to see the password.

Once you check what your Wi-Fi password is, you can share it with the intended recipient.

Top security practices for sharing a Wi-Fi password

Sharing Wi-Fi passwords through Apple or Android devices relies on operating system services, which may not be completely secure. Additionally, there are always instances where we need to share passwords with people using devices from different brands. In both cases, following specific security guidelines is essential to prevent password breaches. Here’s what we recommend you should do.

Firstly, when sharing a password, opt for secure methods like encrypted platforms or in-person exchange, avoiding the public eye or unprotected communication channels.

Furthermore, ensure your Wi-Fi network is secured with WPA2 or WPA3 encryption protocols to deter unauthorized access. Avoid older and less secure encryption standards such as WEP.

Additionally, consider generating temporary passwords for your guests. Many routers provide the option to create time-limited guest passwords, which is ideal for short-term visitors.

Best tip — Use a password manager to store and share your passwords

If, at this point in reading this article, you wish there was a single solution that would allow you to quickly and securely share all your passwords, including the one for Wi-Fi, let us assure you that such a solution exists, and it’s called NordPass.

NordPass is a cybersecurity tool that enables you to store, manage, and share passwords, passkeys, credit card details, and other sensitive information with ease. Because it is encrypted, it ensures that storing and sharing passwords is much more secure, while its intuitive interface makes the whole process effortless.

Moreover, NordPass features a Data Breach Scanner, a feature that allows you to check if your data, including your passwords, has been compromised in a breach. That way, you can stay informed about the security of your credentials and take immediate action when necessary.

So, if the security of your Wi-Fi passwords and other credentials is important to you, try NordPass to be able to share them without second thoughts.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

Meet the Team – Driving Innovation with Product Engineering Manager, Callum Sinclair

We sat down for a chat with Callum Sinclair, our Product Engineering Manager who has been with the company since January 2023. This piece has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

What is your role at Comet?

I started at Comet as the Development Team Leader, and was promoted into the Product Engineering Manager role earlier this year.

As the Dev Team Leader, I was looking after the entire development department; scoping and managing work for both dev teams, and promoting a culture of quality and growth so that our team is constantly upskilling to better serve our customers’ needs.

Now my role as Product Engineering Manager has grown to also include setting the direction that Comet takes as a product and laying out our product roadmap.

What does your day-to-day look like?

It changes every week depending on what we’ve got going on. That’s what keeps the job exciting.

A lot of it is communicating with internal and external stakeholders about what we’re planning to do. One of the most important parts of my role is speaking directly with our customers, distributors and integration partners to hear their needs and figure out how we can address them.

Then I gather all that information into a cohesive vision and work with the development team to scope and action upcoming work.

What attracted you to work at Comet?

I was looking to take the next step in my career and Comet provided me the opportunity to go from a senior software engineer into a leadership role, which was the opportunity I was looking for. It’s been awesome.

What is your favorite thing about working at Comet?

The freedom and autonomy to have an impact and make changes that elevate the team and the way we do things. There isn’t a culture of, “you must do it this way”.

The opportunity to grow is incredible. Sometimes that involves mistakes or missteps, but I’ve learned a lot, and continue to improve. I think that is reflected in the product we make. We’re always pushing ourselves to be better, which results in a product that’s constantly improving.

How would you describe the team culture?

It’s awesome – everyone supports each other, which is amazing. You can always speak up, ask questions and ask for help. Everyone’s here to support each other. One of the strongest things we have at Comet is how well we work with each other.

It’s a very open culture, so you always feel included, you’re never shut out of decisions and you’re always kept in the loop. We encourage everyone to give input, even if it’s not their department or their project. Anyone can voice an opinion or raise an issue. Which makes for a great work environment.

What is the learning and development like at Comet?

You are learning all the time. I don’t think there’s ever been a day where I haven’t been like, “Oh, that’s new.” Or, “That’s something cool.”

We’re constantly picking up new tech and have the opportunity to work on new things.

That is also reflected in our development work. You’re always getting pushed into new areas, you get to work on your code bases, new products, new features. We also push people to do additional training in areas that we think will be of value to them in the future. So there’s plenty of chances to grow and to learn.

What keeps you passionate about moving forward in the industry?

I’m passionate about building a high quality backup product that fits the needs of organizations across many different industries. I’m excited that we have the opportunity to be innovative and refine our ideas.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the tech industry?

There’s a lot of ways to get into the industry, and I think it really just starts with being passionate in anything related to tech.

You can go the traditional ways through university or higher education taking courses like computer science or software engineering. That gives you great exposure to the different fields and domains within the tech industry.

Another way is just getting involved and writing your own code. I think it comes down to what you’re passionate about and following what interests you.

Where did your passion for tech start?

My earliest memory of tech is probably playing Age of Empires II on an old school Windows XP, that got me interest in computers in general.

From there I started doing programming courses in high school and in college, which led to being interested in studying computer science. The more I learned, the more interested I got because there is so much to learn and tech is evolving so quickly. There’s so many areas you can get into.

If you could have any tech superpower, what would it be?

The first that came to mind would be the ability to instantly write code in different languages. I know about four coding languages at this point and I’d love to learn more, but don’t have the time. Being able to natively pick it up and jump in between code bases would be awesome.

Also, being able to spot code issues would be another one. But then again some of the fun of coding is spending the hours to find the bug, finally understanding it, and then fixing it. So having that superpower might be cheating the process a little bit.

What do you like about living in Christchurch?

I like biking as my mode of transport, so it’s fantastic that it’s flat in Christchurch. It’s also really convenient to get to most outdoor activities. Christchurch is close to the mountains and also has nice beaches nearby. Being on the South Island, we have easy access to do weekend trips to amazing destinations like Wanaka and Queenstown.

What are some of your interests and hobbies?

I used to swim competitively, and I still spend some time training in the pool. I’m also a big fan of F1 racing now. Another hobby is trying out new foods, cooking different cuisines, and trying the adventurous options at restaurants.

We know everyone at Comet loves food. What are your top three restaurants in Christchurch?

At the moment, I’m a big fan of the barbecue restaurants. There’s Beers down the road from the office, and an all you can eat Brazilian BBQ place in Papanui. And I like El Quincho, the Argentinian BBQ place at Riverside Market.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Comet
We are a team of dedicated professionals committed to developing reliable and secure backup solutions for MSP’s, Businesses and IT professionals. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, we understand the importance of having a reliable backup solution in place to protect your valuable data. That’s why we’ve developed a comprehensive suite of backup solutions that are easy to use, scalable and highly secure.

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