When you install a new processor on the motherboard, it often fails to turn on.
It mainly happens because the mobo fails to connect with the new CPU.
In this case, updating the BIOS will solve the issue.
The question itself is tricky.
Thats why, in this article, I will elaborately explain that.
So, tag along.
Can You Update the BIOS Without a CPU?
In short, yes, you’re free to update BIOS without a processor.
Actually, its pretty easy.
you might do that using a flash drive.
But not all motherboards can support that.
Flashing BIOS without a processor is possible on Gigabyte, Asus, ASRock, and MSI motherboards.
There is also a limitation in those four motherboards.
You must have a motherboard modelB550 and X570 or above.
Because in those motherboards, there is a flashback button.
This button is not available on any lesser-model motherboards.
Do you know about your motherboard?
If you dont, check our quick guide tofinding out what motherboard you have on your gear.
Another important thing you should be aware of.
The name of the BIOS Flashback feature differs and depends on the motherboard manufacturer.
The manufacturers website lets you know whether your motherboard has the BIOS update option.
To know that answer, read our separate guide on whether it is possible toenter BIOS without a CPU.
In the following section, I have discussed the updating process in detail.
when you obtain those, extract & rename the BIOS file.
Format the drive in FAT32.
Copy-paste the file into the drive.
Put the equipment in the motherboard & press the BIOS button.
The BIOS light will start beeping.
Once its finished, the light will go off.
It means the update process is complete.
The whole process seems pretty straightforward, doesnt it?
Check out the details below to understand the entire updating procedure better.
Here are the steps to upgrade BIOS apart from a processor:
1.
You will find the file on your mobo manufacturers official website.
Note:Dont download the beta version.
Instead, go for its previous ones, which have a full version of the file.
Otherwise, you shouldnt.
Extract and Rename BIOS Files
When the download is finished, go to the file location.
The file should be downloaded as a zip file.
Right-press the zip file and select theExtract Filesoption.
Rename the BIOS file after the extraction is finished.
The name and format of the file will automatically change when you trigger the software.
But you must manually change the BIOS file name for ASRock, Gigabyte, or MSI.
Dont worry about that.
It appears because of the change in the format.
Just clickYes, and it will be gone.
You have to do the process as follows.
After that, copy the BIOS flash file and paste it into the USB.
You dont need to copy the entire BIOS folder.
The renamed BIOS will be enough.
Prepare Your Motherboard
Now you have to prepare your motherboard for the BIOS update.
For this, you must connect the24-pin power connectorto the motherboard.
Afterward, plug in the8-pin power connectorto the CPU.
Once they are installed perfectly, connect your PCs power supply to the power socket.
Now turn on the PSU switch.
It wont be a problem if they remain connected.
Insert the USB Drive and Press the Flash BIOS Button
Now the main procedure begins.
Find the BIOS USB port on the motherboard.
They should be labeled asBIOSand related to it.
You will also see the button right next to it.
The button should be labeled asQ-Flash PlusorBIOS FLBK.
Depending on which company manufactures that motherboard, you might find this BIOS button in different locations.
A small LED light right next to the button will start to flash.
It means the update process has begun.
Wait for a while.
It can take a few minutes to finish the upgrade.
It should take around2 to 10 minutesto complete.
If the LED stops blinking right after you press the button, it indicates something is wrong.
Sometimes you may have to hold down the flash button for a few seconds to start the upgrade.
If nothing works, repeat the process and check whether you miss anything or any connection is loose.
I suggest using a different flash drive this time.
Format it withRufussoftware, not directly from the Windows format tools, and clear your CMOS.
Remove the flash drive from the port and disconnect the PSU from the outlet.
Install all the components and start your PC.
If all works fine, it means everything is in order.
Some PC users ask whether turning on a motherboard without a CPU is possible.
Why Should You Update a Motherboard BIOS?
If the updates include security, your BIOS security will also increase.
Its a serious issue when your new hardware isnt compatible with the motherboard.
You wont get to take advantage of the hardware unless you upgrade your motherboard BIOS.
Bugs can affect the motherboard BIOS.
Without upgrading the BIOS, there is no alternative way to remove these bugs.
Moreover, the update optimizes the mobos configs.
Thats why the motherboards compatibility with other hardware is enhanced.
This results inincreasing overall performance.
To learn more, go through our separate guide onwhether a motherboard can affect PC performance.
As you’re free to see, upgrading a motherboard BIOS is essential.
What Actions to Take and Avoid While You refresh your BIOS Without CPU?
Let me explain these in short detail.
Next, you have to check the current BIOS version.
you could know from theSystem Informationapplication.
Also, look at the BIOS version you are going to download.
double-check you download the latest and update one.
Dont download the beta.
Moreover, follow the instructions properly.
ensure the connection between the motherboard and the power supply is good.
Dont forget tokeep a backup of your current BIOS settingsbefore updating.
you’re able to go back to your previous configs if anything goes wrong.
Things You Must Avoid
You must avoid using third-party BIOS update tools the manufacturer does not support.
Those tools will cause more harm than good.
It can take time to complete the update.
So, dont rush.
Also, dont turn off the PC or cut the power while the update is ongoing.
Doing so can brick your motherboard.
The worst-case scenario can happen that you may not use your mobo anymore.
If the motherboard somehow gets bricked, flashing can fix it.
In that case, you must know whetheryou can flash BIOS without a CPU.
FAQs
What happens if my BIOS is outdated?
Do I need to update BIOS for the old CPU?
Otherwise, you dont need it.
How do I force BIOS updates?
To force BIOS update, bring up the command prompt, throw in biosflashname.exe /forceit, and hit Enter.
Final Thought
Truth be told, its really irritating to update BIOS without CPU.
However, you should be careful while you update.
Any wrong move can put your motherboard at maximum risk.
I hope you get all the answers you need from this article.
Comment below if you have any additional queries.
I will gladly answer them.
