Verify the Need for a BIOS Update
- You are facing specific hardware compatibility issues.
- A recent BIOS update offers a critical fix.
- You need to install new hardware that requires a newer BIOS version.
To check your current BIOS version:
- Restart your laptop and press the F2 key repeatedly to enter the BIOS setup screen.
- Once in the BIOS menu, look for the current BIOS version displayed at the top or under the “Main” tab.
- Compare this with the latest version available on ASUS’s website.
Download the Correct BIOS Update File
To get the BIOS update (e.g., the 303 file) for your specific laptop model:
- Identify your laptop model by looking at the label on the underside of your laptop.
Go to the ASUS support page: Visit ASUS’s support page and enter your laptop model in the search bar.
- Navigate to the “Driver & Tools” section: Select your operating system (usually Windows 7/8 for older laptops) and look for the BIOS section.
- Download the 303 BIOS file: Make sure the 303 file you download matches your exact laptop model. The file is often in a ZIP format.
Prepare the BIOS Update File
- Extract the ZIP file: Once downloaded, extract the contents of the ZIP file to a location on your laptop (e.g., your desktop). The extracted folder will contain the BIOS file (usually ending in .303).
- Copy the BIOS file to a USB flash drive: Use a USB flash drive formatted in FAT32 format. Copy the .303 BIOS file to the root directory of the USB drive.
Enter the BIOS Setup Utility
Now that you have the BIOS file ready, follow these steps to initiate the BIOS update:
- Restart your laptop.
- Press the F2 key repeatedly during boot to enter the BIOS setup screen.
- Once in the BIOS, go to the Advanced tab or the Tool tab, depending on your laptop’s BIOS version.
Use EZ Flash Utility for BIOS Update
Most ASUS laptops from 2012 are equipped with the EZ Flash Utility, which simplifies the BIOS update process. To use it:
- Navigate to the Tool tab and select ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility.
- Select your USB flash drive from the list of storage devices.
- Choose the .303 BIOS file you copied to the USB drive.
- The system will prompt you to confirm the update process. Select Yes.
Wait for the BIOS Update to Complete
- The update will start, and you’ll see a progress bar.
- Do not turn off your laptop or remove the USB drive during this process. Doing so can corrupt the BIOS and cause irreversible damage to your laptop.
- After the update completes, your system will automatically restart.
Reset BIOS Settings (Optional but Recommended)
After the update, it’s a good practice to reset the BIOS settings to defaults:
- Enter the BIOS again by pressing F2.
- Navigate to the Exit tab and select Load Setup Defaults (or similar).
- Save the changes and exit the BIOS.
Verify BIOS Update
After your system reboots, enter the BIOS one more time by pressing F2 to confirm that the new BIOS version (e.g., version 303) has been installed successfully. You can find the BIOS version under the Main tab.
Reconfigure BIOS Settings (If Necessary)
If you had customized your how to update asus 2012 laptop bios using 303 file, you’ll need to reconfigure them after the update, as resetting the BIOS to defaults will remove custom settings.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- System won’t boot after the update: If your laptop doesn’t boot after the BIOS update, try resetting the CMOS by removing the battery for a few minutes (if the laptop allows for battery removal) or consult ASUS support.
- BIOS file not recognized: Ensure the BIOS file is compatible with your exact model and that the USB drive is formatted correctly (FAT32).
- Laptop freezes during the update: Do not interrupt the process. If it’s frozen for an extended period, contact ASUS support for guidance.
FAQs About BIOS Updates on ASUS Laptops
Q1: How do I know if my ASUS laptop needs a BIOS update?
A: Check the version of your current BIOS in the BIOS menu (F2 during startup). Compare it with the latest version available on the ASUS support website. Update only if there are critical fixes or compatibility improvements.
Q2: What risks are involved in updating the BIOS?
A: If done incorrectly or interrupted, BIOS updates can render your laptop unusable. Always follow the correct procedure and ensure your laptop is plugged into a power source during the update.
Q3: Can I update the BIOS without a USB drive?
A: Some ASUS laptops allow for BIOS updates directly from Windows using ASUS’s WinFlash tool, but using the EZ Flash utility with a USB drive is often more reliable.
Q4: What does the .303 file extension mean?
A: The .303 file is simply a naming convention used for the specific version of the BIOS file. It doesn’t affect how the update is performed, but ensure it matches your laptop model.
Q5: Will a BIOS update delete my files?
A: No, a BIOS update does not affect your personal files or installed programs. It only updates the motherboard firmware.
Q6: What should I do if the BIOS update fails?
A: If the update fails, first try resetting the CMOS or contacting ASUS support. In some cases, reflashing the BIOS using the recovery feature may be possible.