Do you want to check the BIOS version of your laptop or desktop computer? BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a software that comes pre-installed on your computer’s motherboard. It manages the data flow between the operating system and the computer hardware. In simple words, BIOS controls the attached devices such as hard disk, keyboard, mouse, video adapter etc. At times you may have to update the BIOS on your motherboard to a new version and it is very important to check the current version of your BIOS and its compatibility.
Most of us are used to rebooting the computer in order to check the BIOS version. A few manufactures will display the BIOS version when the computer boots. You can also enter the BIOS setup by pressing F12, DEL or the F10 keys during startup. This varies across different manufacturers and you will usually come to know which key to press from the startup display. However, if you are using a newer computer which is running Windows 8 or 8.1 with UEFI instead of the traditional BIOS, you won’t be able to press any key during startup.
Is there a way to find BIOS version without restarting your computer?
Yes, there are THREE. These methods are applicable for Windows 7, Windows 8 & 8.1.
1) Check BIOS version using command line
This is one of the easiest ways to find the BIOS version without rebooting your computer. Use the Win+R keys to open up Run. Type cmd and hit enter to open up the command prompt.
Once you are in the cli, type the following command and hit enter.
wmic bios get biosversion
You will easily get to know your BIOS version without having the need to restart you computer.
2) Find BIOS version using System Information
Open up Run using the Win+R keys and type msinfo32 to open up the Windows system information dialog box. Under the System Summary section you will find the BIOS Version/Data item.
Now you know the current version of your BIOS.
3) Checking BIOS version using Windows Registry
All the information in Windows is stored in the Registry and the same applies for BIOS as well. Open up Run using Win+R keys, type Regedit and hit enter to open the Windows Registry.
Once in the registry, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINEHARDWAREDESCRIPTIONSystemBIOS
Here you will find the BIOS version along with a lot of other useful information.
Now you know how to check the BIOS version without rebooting your computer. Are you guys aware of any other ways to check the version of BIOS? Do let us know in the comment section below.