BIOS information is stored on a specific chip on your motherboard
BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System, a core program your computer uses. Your BIOS contains the most basic information and guidelines for your system, including instructional code concerning hardware access and other core functions. Updating your BIOS can prove a technical and involved process, but may be necessary for certain hardware upgrades or computer maintenance procedures.
Uses
When your computer boots, the system accesses the BIOS before the operating system starts. The BIOS ensures the function of each piece of hardware, from external devices like your keyboard, mouse, monitor and printer, to internal devices such as disc drives and graphics cards. Without this information, your computer could not utilize these devices, and many of the basic functions of the system would remain inoperable.
Updates
Though most modern BIOS programs use standardized routines to recognize hardware and allow near-universal compatibility, some hardware may be incompatible with older BIOS models or cause compatibility issues, rendering the hardware unusable. A BIOS update corrects these issues and allows your computer to recognize and use new hardware.
Older Chips
Computers manufactured before the mid-1990s stored BIOS information on non-writable memory chips, which were not accessible through software. You must physically replace these BIOS chips in order to update the BIOS information.
Modern Chips
Newer chips allow users to modify the BIOS information without changing the hardware. Manufacturers provide BIOS data online for download, which usually instruct the user to create a disc for the update.
Improper Updates
Though still an occasional necessity, most hardware and software issues do not require a BIOS update. Since altering the BIOS changes the way your computer functions at a basic level, do not update your BIOS unless you are positive of the update's usefulness. Follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly during the update process, or you may damage the BIOS and require further troubleshooting or restoration to maintain your computer.
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