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Check BIOS/UEFI Version with Win32_BIOS

Read the exact firmware version and release date from Windows before downloading a BIOS update.

WindowshardwarebiospowershellLow risk
Run Get-CimInstance Win32_BIOS and compare the SMBIOSBIOSVersion string with the latest firmware listed on your manufacturer's support page.

01Command

Command
$ Get-CimInstance Win32_BIOS | Format-List Manufacturer, SMBIOSBIOSVersion, ReleaseDate

02What it does

BIOS/UEFI updates fix stability bugs, CPU microcode, and boot issues, but flashing the wrong version can brick a board — so the first step is always reading what you have. Win32_BIOS exposes the vendor string (SMBIOSBIOSVersion, e.g. "F.42" on HP or "1.14.0" on Dell), the manufacturer, and the release date, all without rebooting into setup. Match that version against the support/download page for your exact model, and note that on many modern machines the updater must run from Windows or a USB tool specific to the vendor. The same class also reports serial numbers and SMBIOS version, handy for service requests.

03Risk

RiskLow risk
!Warning: Never flash a BIOS on battery power or during a storm — an interrupted firmware update can leave the machine unbootable.

04Undo

✓No undo needed — this command does not change persistent state.

05Sources

  • Win32_BIOS class
    Microsoft Learn · vendor-doc · 2026-09-17
    Evidence: Documents the Win32_BIOS WMI class with Manufacturer, SMBIOSBIOSVersion, and ReleaseDate properties.

Last verified: 2026-09-18 · Category: System & Settings

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