How to Find Your ASRock Motherboard BIOS Version
Understanding Your ASRock Motherboard and BIOS Basics
Your motherboard is the main circuit board inside your computer that connects all the components together. ASRock is one of several major manufacturers that produces motherboards for both Intel and AMD processors. The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware—specialized software stored on a chip on your motherboard—that runs before your operating system loads. Think of the BIOS as the bridge between your computer's hardware and the software you use daily.
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The BIOS version number indicates which iteration of firmware your motherboard currently has installed. ASRock releases new BIOS versions periodically to fix bugs, improve compatibility with newer processors, enhance stability, and sometimes add new features. Each version number follows a specific format that tells you when the update was released and what improvements it contains.
Knowing your current BIOS version matters for several practical reasons. If you're troubleshooting a problem with your computer, technical support may ask for this information to determine if a known issue applies to your system. If you're considering upgrading your processor, you might need to check whether your current BIOS supports the new chip. Additionally, if you've experienced stability issues, updating to a newer BIOS version might resolve them.
ASRock motherboards come in different model lines, each with its own BIOS update history. The version you have depends on when your motherboard was manufactured and whether you or a previous owner updated it. Unlike operating system updates that happen automatically on many computers, BIOS updates typically require deliberate action from the user.
Takeaway: Your BIOS version is a specific number that identifies which firmware your motherboard contains. Learning how to find this information takes just a few minutes and provides useful details about your system's current state.
Finding Your BIOS Version Through Windows Settings
The most straightforward method to find your ASRock motherboard's BIOS version is through your Windows operating system. Windows maintains information about your system hardware, including BIOS details, and makes this information available through several built-in tools. This method works whether your motherboard is brand new or several years old, and requires no additional software.
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On Windows 10 or Windows 11, you can access this information through the System Information utility. Open the Start menu and type "System Information" into the search box. Click the System Information app when it appears in the results. The System Information window will open, displaying various details about your computer. Look for a field labeled "BIOS Version/Date" in the main list. This line contains both your BIOS version number and the date when that version was released. For ASRock motherboards, the version number typically begins with a letter followed by numbers, such as "P1.20" or "1.80".
Alternatively, you can use the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, which is another built-in Windows utility. Press the Windows key and the R key simultaneously to open the Run dialog box. Type "dxdiag" and press Enter. The DirectX Diagnostic Tool window will appear. Click the "System" tab if it's not already selected. At the top of the window, you'll see "BIOS" listed with the version information beside it. This method provides the same information as System Information but reaches it through a different route.
For Windows 8 or earlier versions, the process is similar but accessed slightly differently. Open the Control Panel, navigate to System and Security, then click System. In the left sidebar, click "Device Manager." In the Device Manager window, expand the section called "System devices" by clicking the arrow next to it. Look for an entry that includes your motherboard manufacturer's name. Right-click it and select "Properties" to view more detailed information about your BIOS version.
Takeaway: Windows built-in tools provide quick access to your BIOS version without installing anything new. The System Information utility is the fastest method for most users.
Checking BIOS Version from the BIOS Menu Itself
Another reliable way to find your exact BIOS version is to access the BIOS directly. This method shows you the information straight from the source and confirms what Windows reports. To enter the BIOS menu, you must restart your computer and press a specific key during the startup sequence. For most ASRock motherboards, this key is the Delete key, though some older models use F2. You'll typically see a message on your screen during startup that says something like "Press DEL to enter Setup" or "Press F2 to enter BIOS."
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Timing is important when trying to enter the BIOS. You need to press the key after your computer powers on but before Windows begins loading. If you see the Windows logo appearing, you've missed the window and will need to restart your computer again. Some computers have a very brief window for entering the BIOS—sometimes just a second or two. If you have difficulty, restart your computer and begin pressing the key repeatedly right after the power-on sequence starts.
Once you've successfully entered the BIOS, you'll see the main menu. The appearance varies depending on your specific motherboard model and BIOS version. ASRock uses either a traditional text-based interface or a more graphical interface on newer models. Look for information displayed in the top area of the screen or in a dedicated system information section. Many ASRock BIOS menus display your motherboard model, processor information, and BIOS version right on the main screen without needing to navigate anywhere.
If you don't immediately see the BIOS version on the main screen, look for a menu option labeled "System Information," "Main," or "About." Clicking or selecting this option will typically display detailed information about your system, including the BIOS version number. The version will be displayed as text, often labeled as "BIOS Version," "Firmware Version," or simply the version number itself. Take note of this exact number, including any letters and all digits.
Takeaway: Entering the BIOS gives you direct access to the information from your motherboard itself. This method confirms the information Windows reports and is particularly useful if you're troubleshooting hardware problems.
Using Third-Party Software to Identify BIOS Information
Several free software programs can detect and display your motherboard information, including BIOS version. These tools scan your system hardware and compile the information into an easy-to-read format. Programs like CPU-Z, Speccy, and HWiNFO are popular choices among computer users. These programs are safe to use and provided by reputable technology companies. They function by reading the same system information that Windows accesses, presenting it in a different format.
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CPU-Z is a lightweight program that focuses specifically on processor and motherboard information. Once you run CPU-Z, click the "Mainboard" tab. This tab displays your motherboard manufacturer (should show ASRock), the motherboard model number, and the BIOS version. The program shows the BIOS revision number along with the date it was released. CPU-Z is particularly useful because it also shows your processor specifications and RAM information, providing a comprehensive overview of your core system components.
Speccy is another option that displays system hardware details. After launching Speccy, look at the left sidebar and click on "Motherboard." The main panel will display your motherboard's manufacturer, model, and BIOS version. Speccy presents information in an organized way that's easy to understand, even for users unfamiliar with hardware terminology. Speccy also shows your processor, RAM, storage drives, and other hardware components.
HWiNFO is a more detailed hardware information tool that appeals to advanced users but remains accessible to beginners. When you run HWiNFO, it displays a summary of your system information, including your motherboard model and BIOS version. The interface can seem complex at first, but the main information you need appears prominently on the summary screen. These tools update regularly to support new motherboard models and detect the latest hardware.
Takeaway: Third-party software provides another verification method for your BIOS version and often displays additional system information alongside it. These programs offer a user-friendly presentation of technical details.
Understanding ASRock BIOS Version Numbering
ASRock BIOS version numbers follow a specific format that contains meaningful information about your firmware. Understanding this format helps you determine whether a newer version is available and how significant an update might be. ASRock typically uses version numbers like "P1.
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.