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BIOS is a computer’s core programming that enables interaction between hardware and software. Flashing the BIOS allows for updates and new hardware compatibility. Flash BIOS replaced read-only chips, making updates easier. BIOS updates are essential for stable computer performance and are typically done through a downloadable program.
A computer’s basic input/output system (BIOS) is the core of a computer’s internal programming. The system BIOS is separate from the active parts of a computer, the parts that the user commonly interacts with. When a BIOS needs repair or updating, it goes through a process called flashing. Flashing the BIOS allows the computer to interact directly with a generally inaccessible area of the system.
A computer’s BIOS is the first piece of software that runs after the machine is turned on. This integrated program lays the foundation for the interaction between the various hardware and software components of the system. The BIOS enables the operating system to boot and the user interface of the computer to load.
For many years, a computer’s system BIOS was kept on a standard read-only chip. Like most read-only chips of the time, this chip could not be changed or upgraded. If a new BIOS was needed for the system, the chip had to be physically removed from the system and replaced with a new chip. Replacing this chip was a long and difficult process, well beyond the capabilities of most home users.
In the mid-1990s, a new type of BIOS called a Flash BIOS came into common use. This was on a special type of read-only chip that wasn’t completely read-only. Under the right circumstances and with the right information, it was possible to rewrite the information stored on the chip. This process was known as BIOS flashing.
The impact of BIOS flashing has been huge. Users were able to reliably update their systems BIOS. This has allowed BIOS manufacturers to make fewer versions of their software. With fewer versions, the complexity of BIOS systems has increased. Soon, they incorporated system settings that were previously only available as hardwired dipswitches or via external hardware interaction.
Flashing the BIOS is an important part of maintaining your computer. Since the BIOS is at the heart of computer hardware and software, a properly functioning BIOS is essential. BIOS updates allow new types of hardware to interact safely with your computer system and provide a more stable platform on which your hardware and software can run.
Typically, flashing the BIOS is done through a program available from the motherboard manufacturer. Originally, information was meant to be loaded onto a floppy drive as a boot disk. The update process would happen automatically after restarting the computer. While this option is still available for most updates, it’s not the preferred method. Now, a simple downloadable program will check your computer’s BIOS version, download the latest updates, flash the BIOS, and restart your computer, all through the standard user interface.
