What To Know
- The duration of a firmware update can vary depending on the size of the update and the speed of your internet connection.
- What should I do if I encounter errors during a firmware update.
- If you encounter errors during a firmware update, restart your Surface Laptop and try the update again.
Maintaining up-to-date firmware on your Surface Laptop is crucial for optimal performance, security, and stability. If you’re wondering how to check your firmware version, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps.
Accessing System Information
1. Press Windows Key + R: Open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msinfo32” and hit Enter: This will launch the System Information window.
Navigating to BIOS/UEFI Version
1. Scroll down to “BIOS Version/Date”: This will display the current BIOS/UEFI version installed on your Surface Laptop.
2. Note down the version number: This is your firmware version.
Using Command Prompt
1. Press Windows Key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin): This will open an elevated Command Prompt window.
2. Type “wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion” and hit Enter: This command will display the firmware version in the command prompt window.
Checking via Surface UEFI
1. Restart your Surface Laptop: Hold down the Volume Down button while pressing the Power button.
2. Enter UEFI: Release both buttons when the Surface logo appears.
3. Navigate to Device Options: Use the Volume buttons to scroll and select Device Options.
4. Select System Information: This will display the firmware version under the “System Information” tab.
Updating Firmware
1. Visit the Microsoft Surface Support website: Go to https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface.
2. Select your Surface Laptop model: Enter your Surface Laptop model in the search bar and select it.
3. Download the latest firmware: Click on “Drivers and Downloads” and select the latest firmware update available.
4. Install the update: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the firmware update.
Benefits of Updating Firmware
- Improved performance: Firmware updates often include optimizations that enhance the overall performance of your Surface Laptop.
- Enhanced security: Firmware updates patch security vulnerabilities, protecting your device from malware and cyber threats.
- Stability improvements: Firmware updates address bugs and glitches, ensuring a more stable and reliable computing experience.
Troubleshooting Firmware Issues
1. Unable to update firmware: Check for any pending Windows updates or hardware driver updates that may be interfering with the firmware update process.
2. Firmware update fails: Restart your Surface Laptop and try the update again. If the issue persists, contact Microsoft Surface Support.
3. Device not booting after firmware update: If your Surface Laptop does not boot after a firmware update, try resetting it by holding down the Power button for 30 seconds.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: How often should I check my firmware version?
A: It is recommended to check your firmware version periodically, such as every few months or when prompted by Microsoft updates.
Q: Can I downgrade my firmware version?
A: Downgrading firmware is generally not recommended as it can lead to stability issues. If necessary, contact Microsoft Surface Support for assistance.
Q: What happens if I don’t update my firmware?
A: Running outdated firmware can compromise your device’s performance, security, and stability. It is important to keep your firmware up to date.
Q: How long does a firmware update take?
A: The duration of a firmware update can vary depending on the size of the update and the speed of your internet connection. However, it typically takes around 15-30 minutes.
Q: What should I do if I encounter errors during a firmware update?
A: If you encounter errors during a firmware update, restart your Surface Laptop and try the update again. If the issue persists, contact Microsoft Surface Support for assistance.
