Firmware updates: you might have heard the term before, but the majority of people won’t understand exactly what they are or why they’re important. In this blog, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about firmware updates, covering what they are and why they matter for your PC’s performance and security. We’ll also explain how to check for firmware updates, and how to perform one safely – plus, we’ve included some advice on the best practices for keeping your firmware up-to-date and your PC running smoothly.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of why firmware updates deserve a spot on your regular tech to-do list, and know how to carry them out yourself.
What Are Firmware Updates?
Firmware is the underlying software embedded in your PC’s hardware components. Think of it as the thing that bridges the gap between physical hardware and software applications. It lives in devices like your motherboard, hard drives, graphics card, and even external accessories such as keyboards and mice.
Firmware updates are patches, fixes, or enhancements released by manufacturers to improve or repair the functionality of these hardware components. Unlike software updates, which affect your operating system and applications, firmware updates target the foundational instructions that enable hardware to operate.
Here are some common reasons why firmware updates might be released:
- Bug fixes – Preventing issues that could cause your system to malfunction if left unaddressed.
- Performance improvements – Enhancing hardware efficiency and speed.
- Security enhancements – Fixing vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
- Compatibility updates – Ensuring your hardware works well with any new operating systems or devices.
Firmware updates are a bit like an oil change for your car – it’s not always obvious when they need to be done, but they’re essential to keeping everything running smoothly.
Why Are Firmware Updates Important?
Many people overlook firmware updates because they don’t realize how crucial they are. Skipping these updates can have serious consequences for your PC’s performance, functionality, and security.
- Improved security – Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, and hackers often exploit vulnerabilities they find in outdated firmware. Firmware updates often include critical security patches to address these weaknesses before they can be taken advantage of. Without these updates, your system is at greater risk of malware infections and data breaches.
- Enhanced performance – Outdated firmware can cause your hardware to underperform. By installing the latest updates, you can unlock performance improvements that make your PC faster, more efficient, and better equipped to handle demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.
- Bug fixes – Bugs in firmware can lead to system crashes and other aggravating glitches. Updates often fix these problems, ensuring your PC operates smoothly and reliably.
- Compatibility – As technology advances, your hardware needs to stay compatible with the latest operating systems, applications, and peripherals. Firmware updates help ensure your PC can keep up with these changes without running into compatibility issues.
How to Perform a Firmware Update Safely
Updating firmware isn’t as straightforward as updating your operating system or apps. It requires a bit more care, as mistakes during the process can cause issues that may be difficult to rectify. Here’s how to do it safely.
Check your hardware manufacturer’s website
To start, visit the official website of the hardware manufacturer. Look for the support or downloads section, where firmware updates are typically available. Be sure to only download updates specifically made for your device model.
Read the release notes
Before installing the update, review the release notes provided by the manufacturer. These notes will explain what the update does and whether it’s relevant to your system. If the update doesn’t address a problem you’re experiencing, it might not be necessary to install it. However, if the release notes mention that the update includes security patches, it’s always advisable to install it as soon as possible.
Back up your data
Firmware updates can sometimes go wrong, resulting in hardware malfunction or data loss. To be safe, back up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage before proceeding.
Follow instructions carefully
Firmware updates often come with detailed instructions. Follow these steps exactly as outlined. For example, you may need to run a specific utility or ensure your device is plugged into a power source.
Avoid interruptions
Interrupting a firmware update, such as turning off your computer or disconnecting power, can corrupt the firmware and render your hardware unusable. Ensure your PC is on a stable power source, and don’t use the device until the update is complete.
Restart if necessary
After the update is complete, restart your computer if prompted. This ensures the new firmware is fully integrated into your system.
Best Practices for Managing Firmware Updates
Keeping your firmware up-to-date doesn’t have to be a hassle. By adopting a few best practices, you can ensure your system remains secure and performs at its best.
- Enable automatic notifications – Many modern PCs and devices can notify you when firmware updates are available. Enable these notifications to stay informed about the latest releases. Note, however, that you’ll often need to install the updates manually.
- Schedule regular checks – Set aside time every few months to check for firmware updates, especially for critical components like your motherboard and SSD. Regular maintenance can help you avoid surprises down the road.
- Verify the source – Only download firmware updates from the official manufacturer’s website or a trusted source. Avoid third-party sites, as these can contain malicious files that harm your system.
- Keep documentation to hand – If you’re not sure how to update a specific piece of hardware, consult the user manual or online documentation provided by the manufacturer. This can help you avoid common pitfalls.
- Don’t overdo it – Not every firmware update is necessary. If your system is running smoothly and the update doesn’t address a specific problem or vulnerability, it’s okay to hold off. Apply updates selectively based on your needs.
Keep your PC optimized with iolo
Firmware updates might not be the most glamorous part of owning a PC, but they’re vital for maintaining performance and security. Knowing how to check for firmware updates and carry them out safely can help ensure your system stays in top shape, boosting the longevity of your PC and the efficiency of your day-to-day computing.
Don’t let outdated firmware leave your PC vulnerable to threats or performance issues – take a few minutes to check for updates and ensure everything is up to date. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your system’s health and security. Using a tool such as iolo’s DriveScrubber can help to clean out your computer and keep it optimized, priming it for updates and freeing it from residual data.
Find out more about our products and how they can keep your computer in top shape.
