How to Check BIOS Version on Windows 11 Quickly and Safely

To check your BIOS/UEFI version in Windows 11 without rebooting, open System Information and read BIOS Version/Date, or use a read-only PowerShell query. This identifies the firmware reported to Windows; compare it with the PC or motherboard manufacturer's information for your exact model before considering an update.

How do I find my BIOS version on Windows 11?

You can find your BIOS version using Windows’ built-in tools without installing anything or restarting your computer. The easiest way is through the System Information app: press Windows key + S, type "System Information", and open it. On the summary page, look for the "BIOS Version/Date" field. This shows the manufacturer, BIOS version number, and release date.

For a command-line method, open PowerShell or a PowerShell tab in Terminal and run: Get-CimInstance Win32_BIOS | Select-Object Manufacturer, SMBIOSBIOSVersion, ReleaseDate. WMIC commands found in older guides are deprecated and may be unavailable on current Windows 11 installations. These CIM properties report the installed firmware information exposed to Windows.

System Information and the Win32_BIOS query read information exposed to Windows, including SMBIOS data. They do not flash the motherboard or alter firmware settings, but their accuracy depends on the manufacturer's reported data. A firmware version is different from the SMBIOS specification version.

What does my BIOS version tell me and why does it matter?

Your BIOS version includes a number and release date identifying the firmware installed on your motherboard. This firmware initializes hardware when your PC powers on and manages low-level communication between Windows and hardware components.

Knowing your BIOS version helps you verify if your system has the latest firmware updates, which often include bug fixes, security patches, or compatibility improvements. For example, some new hardware, like graphics cards, may need a BIOS update to work correctly. Before updating, it helps to check your graphics card on Windows 11 so you know which model you have.

If you’re troubleshooting hardware issues, an outdated BIOS can cause boot errors or prevent the system from recognizing new devices. Checking your BIOS version first lets you decide if updating might solve your problem or if your firmware is already current.

Are there any common mistakes when checking BIOS version?

A frequent confusion is mixing up BIOS with UEFI, the modern replacement for BIOS. Many people still say BIOS, but most new PCs use UEFI firmware, which has different features and versioning. Windows tools typically show your system’s firmware version regardless of the term, but it’s helpful to know if your PC uses UEFI.

Built-in tools are convenient for this task and usually avoid the need to install an extra utility. A reputable manufacturer's diagnostic tool may also report the firmware correctly; third-party origin alone does not make a result inaccurate. Resolve discrepancies using the exact model's support documentation or firmware setup screen.

System Information or the PowerShell query is a reliable starting point for the reported BIOS version. On supported systems, Device Manager can also list a Firmware/System Firmware device, and Windows Update in Settings may deliver firmware packages. The package or driver version shown there is not always formatted like the manufacturer's BIOS version, so do not treat them as automatically interchangeable.

Can I check BIOS version without restarting my PC?

Yes. System Information and Get-CimInstance Win32_BIOS can report the firmware version while Windows is running, without entering firmware setup or changing its settings.

This means you don’t need to reboot and enter the BIOS setup screen, which requires pressing specific keys during startup. Checking BIOS from Windows is quicker, less risky, and more convenient for troubleshooting or preparing for updates.

Only reboot if you need to change BIOS settings or update the firmware itself.

What should I do if my BIOS version is outdated?

If your BIOS version is outdated, start by backing up important files. BIOS updates carry some risk—if interrupted or done incorrectly, they can make your PC unable to boot.

Next, go to your PC or motherboard manufacturer’s official website. Find the support or downloads section and locate the BIOS or firmware updates for your exact model. Read their update instructions carefully, as manufacturers provide specific steps and warnings.

Use only firmware supplied for the exact PC or motherboard model and hardware revision through its official update channel. The supported process may use a Windows utility, a firmware setup flash tool or Windows Update; follow that manufacturer's instructions. Keep reliable power, meet its battery requirements, save the BitLocker recovery key and suspend/resume protection only as instructed. Do not interrupt flashing.

If you’re uncertain or uncomfortable performing a BIOS update, consider asking a professional or contacting manufacturer support. While an outdated BIOS can cause issues, a failed update can cause bigger problems, so proceed cautiously.

Conclusion

Read the reported firmware version with System Information or PowerShell, then compare it with the manufacturer's releases for the exact model. Review release notes for security fixes, compatibility changes and prerequisites. Updating firmware is a separate operation with different risks from reading its version; use the documented procedure and keep recovery information available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check BIOS version from Windows Settings?

The most consistent places to read the reported BIOS version are System Information and a PowerShell Win32_BIOS query. Settings layouts vary, and Windows Update may offer firmware updates there; an update package's version does not necessarily match the BIOS version string. Compare with the exact model's official documentation.

Is BIOS version the same as UEFI version?

BIOS and UEFI are types of firmware. Most modern PCs use UEFI but often refer to it as BIOS. The version you see usually reflects your system’s firmware version, regardless of the name.

What if my BIOS version isn’t listed in System Information?

Try PowerShell: Get-CimInstance Win32_BIOS | Select-Object Manufacturer, SMBIOSBIOSVersion, ReleaseDate. If the information is blank or inconsistent, compare the firmware setup screen or manufacturer's diagnostic tool and support information. Re-running an obsolete WMIC command as administrator does not inherently fix missing SMBIOS data.

Does checking BIOS version risk changing any settings?

No, viewing your BIOS version from Windows tools only reads information stored in your motherboard’s firmware. It doesn’t change any settings or firmware.

How often should I update my BIOS?

Review the manufacturer's release notes and update recommendations for your exact model. Security advisories can justify an update even when no fault is visible, as can necessary hardware support or reliability fixes. Follow the required sequence and prerequisites instead of using a fixed schedule or flashing an unrelated image.