Should I update my BIOS?

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DrGriggs

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Aug 13, 2014
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I have just completed my first build so I don't know too much about computers. The OS hasn't been installed yet.

I have an Asus M5A97 R2.0 with BIOS version 2301. I went onto Asus' website and it said I wouldn't have to flash my BIOS unless the version was number was less than 1006. The current version is 2501: http://www.asus.com/ca-en/Motherboards/M5A97_R20/HelpDesk_CPU/

Should I update the BIOS just to keep it up to date or should I not take the risk of bricking my motherboard for a tiny update like this?

Additional question: Should I use Asus Optimal instead of Power Saving and Normal?
 
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someguynamedmatt
I'll agree with ss202sl on this one - unless you have a specific reason for updating your BIOS, like CPU compatibility or whatnot, I'd just leave it alone... in my opinion, it isn't worth either the trouble or risk just to have a newer version number.

EDIT: On JackNaylor's comment, it's true... I've dealt with them a few times and that was basically the first question they asked. You could always update everything only if there is need for support, though, which is probably what I'd do.

Just my opinion... take it for what it's worth. :)
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JackNaylorPE

JackNaylorPE

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Ole strategy was "if it ain't broke don't fix it". However, Asus's support policy is:

1. "If ya don't have the latest drivers, call us back when you do"
2. Then when ya call back.... "If ya don't have the latest BIOS, call us back when you do"

On last build, I called with a WiFi issue.... don't remember exact dates, but

Latest Driver was like November
Latest BIOS was around January 5th
I called 2 days after BIOS came out and hadn't upgraded.

The tech explained that the "latest drivers are designed only to work with the latest BIOS.

I responded well the latest driver predates the new BIOS so shouldn't it work with the old BIOS ?"

"We are not authorized to provide support to customers who have not installed the latest BIOS and drivers."

Translation: "I get rated on calls per hour so the faster I get you off the phone, the better I look." :)
 
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someguynamedmatt

someguynamedmatt

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I'll agree with ss202sl on this one - unless you have a specific reason for updating your BIOS, like CPU compatibility or whatnot, I'd just leave it alone... in my opinion, it isn't worth either the trouble or risk just to have a newer version number.

EDIT: On JackNaylor's comment, it's true... I've dealt with them a few times and that was basically the first question they asked. You could always update everything only if there is need for support, though, which is probably what I'd do.

Just my opinion... take it for what it's worth. :)
 
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DrGriggs

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Aug 13, 2014
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Alright thanks guys. I'm going to leave it like it is to save me some more research and work on my first build. I'll update it if I need to in the future. Thanks a ton!
 
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spooky2th

spooky2th

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Flashing boards is pretty safe now-a-days. Used to be a roll of the dice. Like I said, I always do it first and foremost then setup the BIOS (especially the memory timings & speed) correctly, then load windows, then the MB drivers. I couldn't begin to count how many builds I've done and I have not bricked a MB yet.
 
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JackNaylorPE

JackNaylorPE

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I load latest BIOS and set to defaults .... no adjustments

Then install windows, install all drivers utilities or original media (sometimes theirs licenses on the disks or sleeves)

After that run Windows Update the 22 times it needs to finish, then finally all updated drivers.

Then start tweaking BIOS.

I have updated BIOS via USB, via MoBo utility, and even via Windows based install programs.,.... neither one ever gave me a problem.
 
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