A computer's BIOS (basic input/output system) is what gets the PC going when you press the power button. It tells the computer to load the operating system -- Windows XP, in this case -- from the hard drive, and it acts as the interface between the operating system and the hardware. BIOS updates are not as common or frequent as software updates, but it is worthwhile to check for them periodically to get peak performance from your computer. Updates maintain the functionality of your hardware -- which, after all, does provide a home for your software.
Instructions
1. Find out who the manufacturer of your computer is, as well as other important system information. To do this, click "Start" and then click "Run."
2. Type "sysdm.cpl" and click "OK." On the window that appears, go to the "General" tab.
3. Go to the area under "Manufactured and supported by" and write down the name of the computer manufacturer, and your computer's make and model number.
4. Click "Support" and write down the phone number of the manufacturer, if available. Keep this information for future reference.
5. Click "Start," then select "Help and Support."
6. Click the manufacturer's support link to take you to its website. If it does not take you there, manually enter the website address. Next, type "BIOS updates" in its search box. View the results list for technical support on find these for your specific computer model.
7. Follow manufacturer's instructions on update the BIOS of your specific computer model if a change to the system is needed.
Tags: your computer, your specific computer, BIOS updates, computer model, manufacturer your