Forced BIOS Firmware Update - Revision history

Charlie 6: /* Lenovo */ added battery whitelist, with sources

2026-02-26T15:07:48Z

Lenovo: added battery whitelist, with sources

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:07, 26 February 2026
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	===HP===		===HP===
	Blocked RAM speed<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Gburns53 \|date=2021-10-25 \|title=Forced BIOS update \|url=https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Gaming-Desktops/Forced-BIOS-update/td-p/8198864 \|url-status=live \|archive-date= \|access-date=2025-12-28 \|website=HP Community \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260215152218/https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Gaming-Desktops/Forced-BIOS-update/td-p/8198864 ~~\|archive-date=15 Feb 2026~~}}</ref>, disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.		Blocked RAM speed<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Gburns53 \|date=2021-10-25 \|title=Forced BIOS update \|url=https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Gaming-Desktops/Forced-BIOS-update/td-p/8198864 \|url-status=live \|archive-date=15 Feb 2026 \|access-date=2025-12-28 \|website=HP Community \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260215152218/https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Gaming-Desktops/Forced-BIOS-update/td-p/8198864 }}</ref>, disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.

	===Lenovo===		===Lenovo===
	Disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Matusaprod \|date=2023-07-15 \|title=Linux sleep mode on newer thinkpad missing? \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218181844/https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>.		Disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Matusaprod \|date=2023-07-15 \|title=Linux sleep mode on newer thinkpad missing? \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218181844/https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, added battery whitelist<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Bob297586 \|date=2020-03-27 \|title=Help with Lenovo thinkpad w530 battery whitelist \|url=https://linustechtips.com/topic/1200330-help-with-lenovo-thinkpad-w530-battery-whitelist/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2026-02-26 \|website=Linus Tech Tips}}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite web \|last=@OrganicBrian \|date=2023-12-27 \|title=Thinkpad T420 battery suddenly rejected by the laptop: could an update have caused this? \|url=https://forums.linuxmint.com/viewtopic.php?t=409942 \|url-status=live \|access-date=2026-02-26 \|website=Linux Mint Forums}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Scorpion8 \|date=2020-04-27 \|title=Thinkpad Battery "Whitelist" ... how does it work? \|url=https://thinkpads.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=130513 \|url-status=live \|access-date=2026-02-26 \|website=thinkpads.com Support Community}}</ref>.

	==Countermeasures==		==Countermeasures==

	===Disabling UEFI Encapsulation===		===Disabling UEFI Encapsulation===
	On some computer models, UEFI Encapsulation can be disabled in BIOS settings<ref name=":0" />, disallowing the exchange of configuration data between the operating system and the UEFI firmware.		On some computer models, UEFI Encapsulation can be disabled in BIOS settings<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2023-04-30 \|title=How to disable BIOS updates completely \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Alienware/comments/133h83x/how_to_disable_bios_updates_completely/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2026-02-26 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, disallowing the exchange of configuration data between the operating system and the UEFI firmware.

	===Enabling "Do not include drivers with windows updates" in Group Policy===		===Enabling "Do not include drivers with windows updates" in Group Policy===
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	===Using a free operating system===		===Using a free operating system===
	Free operating systems such as GNU/Linux respect user freedom. BIOS updates can be manually initiated using LVFS/fwupd		Free operating systems such as GNU/Linux respect user freedom. BIOS updates can be manually initiated using LVFS/fwupd. Although rare, it's not impossible for some Linux distributions to install BIOS updates automatically<ref name=":6" />.

	===Board-level repair===		===Board-level repair===

Bananabot: Added archive URLs for 6 citation(s) using CRWCitationBot

2026-02-23T05:01:46Z

Added archive URLs for 6 citation(s) using CRWCitationBot

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:01, 23 February 2026
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	Basic Input/Output System, also known as BIOS, is a type of firmware used to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs and to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on startup)<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Kozierok \|first=Charles M \|date=2001-04-17 \|title=Ref — System BIOS \|url=https://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190218194254/https://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|archive-date=2019-02-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=The PC Guide}}</ref>.		Basic Input/Output System, also known as BIOS, is a type of firmware used to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs and to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on startup)<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Kozierok \|first=Charles M \|date=2001-04-17 \|title=Ref — System BIOS \|url=https://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190218194254/https://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|archive-date=2019-02-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=The PC Guide}}</ref>.

	Generally speaking, a working computer's BIOS doesn't need to be updated frequently due to the instinct risk of BIOS flashing<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-04-12 \|title=FlashBIOS \|url=https://wiki.debian.org/FlashBIOS \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=Debian Wiki}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-12-12 \|title=Flashing BIOS from Linux \|url=https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Flashing_BIOS_from_Linux \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=ArchWiki}}</ref>. However more and more mainstream computer manufactures starts pushing BIOS updates, often without user's consent or against the user's will, causing more issues and paves the way of controlling the device further.		Generally speaking, a working computer's BIOS doesn't need to be updated frequently due to the instinct risk of BIOS flashing<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-04-12 \|title=FlashBIOS \|url=https://wiki.debian.org/FlashBIOS \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=Debian Wiki \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251118135550/https://wiki.debian.org/FlashBIOS \|archive-date=18 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-12-12 \|title=Flashing BIOS from Linux \|url=https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Flashing_BIOS_from_Linux \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=ArchWiki \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260218024432/https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Flashing_BIOS_from_Linux \|archive-date=18 Feb 2026}}</ref>. However more and more mainstream computer manufactures starts pushing BIOS updates, often without user's consent or against the user's will, causing more issues and paves the way of controlling the device further.

	==How it works==		==How it works==
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	*Undervolting<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|last=@u/DarkKnight04081995 \|date=2020-11-17 \|title=[GUIDE] Inspiron 7567: Bios downgrade from v1.12.1 to v1.11.0 \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218154156/https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, a method of reducing power consumption without decreasing performance		*Undervolting<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|last=@u/DarkKnight04081995 \|date=2020-11-17 \|title=[GUIDE] Inspiron 7567: Bios downgrade from v1.12.1 to v1.11.0 \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218154156/https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, a method of reducing power consumption without decreasing performance
	*CPU thermal design power (TDP)<ref name=":4">{{Cite web \|last=@eXplode \|date=2024-12-18 \|title=How to Stop Automatic BIOS Updates and some hate for BIOS 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002181913/https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|archive-date=2025-10-02 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>		*CPU thermal design power (TDP)<ref name=":4">{{Cite web \|last=@eXplode \|date=2024-12-18 \|title=How to Stop Automatic BIOS Updates and some hate for BIOS 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002181913/https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|archive-date=2025-10-02 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>
	*Fan control.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Mell \|date=2025-10-04 \|title=G713qm fan problem bios 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/g713qm-fan-problem-bios-331/td-p/1118443 \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>		*Fan control.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Mell \|date=2025-10-04 \|title=G713qm fan problem bios 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/g713qm-fan-problem-bios-331/td-p/1118443 \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251117101016/https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/g713qm-fan-problem-bios-331/td-p/1118443 \|archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref>

	===Reduced reliability/Planned obsolescence===		===Reduced reliability/Planned obsolescence===
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	Users reporting increased coil whine after a certain BIOS update<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@ tom.m.culle150a02ca \|date=2024-01-12 \|title=Coil whine after bios update \|url=https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218183546/https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=MSI Global English Forum}}</ref>, possibly reducing reliability and increasing the failure rate.		Users reporting increased coil whine after a certain BIOS update<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@ tom.m.culle150a02ca \|date=2024-01-12 \|title=Coil whine after bios update \|url=https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218183546/https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=MSI Global English Forum}}</ref>, possibly reducing reliability and increasing the failure rate.

	Due to its unpredictable and forced nature, uncommanded BIOS updates have a higher chance of bricking the computer<ref name=":5">{{Cite web \|last=@Parts-People Dell Laptop Experts \|date=2025-11-02 \|title=New Day, Another Bricked Laptop From Windows Update! \|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tRSjfFBtME \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref>, such as interrupted BIOS update in the user's backpack due to over-temperature or battery depletion.		Due to its unpredictable and forced nature, uncommanded BIOS updates have a higher chance of bricking the computer<ref name=":5">{{Cite web \|last=@Parts-People Dell Laptop Experts \|date=2025-11-02 \|title=New Day, Another Bricked Laptop From Windows Update! \|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tRSjfFBtME \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[YouTube]] \|archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=8tRSjfFBtME \|archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>, such as interrupted BIOS update in the user's backpack due to over-temperature or battery depletion.

	On some laptops, the battery capacity is restricted by reducing the charging voltage after a BIOS update, causing premature battery endurance decline. This practice is similar to [[Google Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program]] but without official announcement.		On some laptops, the battery capacity is restricted by reducing the charging voltage after a BIOS update, causing premature battery endurance decline. This practice is similar to [[Google Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program]] but without official announcement.
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	==Examples==		==Examples==
	[[File:Alienwarebiosrollback.png\|thumb\|From a comment on a laptop repair video<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Parts-People Dell Laptop Experts \|date=2024-12-28 \|title=Laptop Destroyed By Windows Update {{!}} Make It Stop! Microsoft \|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvhUPIkKt1s \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref>, a Dell user had to roll back a forced BIOS update to restore GPU performance.]]		[[File:Alienwarebiosrollback.png\|thumb\|From a comment on a laptop repair video<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Parts-People Dell Laptop Experts \|date=2024-12-28 \|title=Laptop Destroyed By Windows Update {{!}} Make It Stop! Microsoft \|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvhUPIkKt1s \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=[[YouTube]]}} ([https://preservetube.com/watch?v=pvhUPIkKt1s Archived])</ref>, a Dell user had to roll back a forced BIOS update to restore GPU performance.]]
	These examples are non-exhaustive, some known instances are currently not listed due to insufficient source(s). All the examples below have BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update.		These examples are non-exhaustive, some known instances are currently not listed due to insufficient source(s). All the examples below have BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update.

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	===HP===		===HP===
	Blocked RAM speed<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Gburns53 \|date=2021-10-25 \|title=Forced BIOS update \|url=https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Gaming-Desktops/Forced-BIOS-update/td-p/8198864 \|url-status=live \|archive-date= \|access-date=2025-12-28 \|website=HP Community}}</ref>, disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.		Blocked RAM speed<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Gburns53 \|date=2021-10-25 \|title=Forced BIOS update \|url=https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Gaming-Desktops/Forced-BIOS-update/td-p/8198864 \|url-status=live \|archive-date= \|access-date=2025-12-28 \|website=HP Community \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260215152218/https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Gaming-Desktops/Forced-BIOS-update/td-p/8198864 \|archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref>, disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.

	===Lenovo===		===Lenovo===

Mr Pollo at 20:08, 17 February 2026

2026-02-17T20:08:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:08, 17 February 2026
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	*Undervolting<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|last=@u/DarkKnight04081995 \|date=2020-11-17 \|title=[GUIDE] Inspiron 7567: Bios downgrade from v1.12.1 to v1.11.0 \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218154156/https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, a method of reducing power consumption without decreasing performance		*Undervolting<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|last=@u/DarkKnight04081995 \|date=2020-11-17 \|title=[GUIDE] Inspiron 7567: Bios downgrade from v1.12.1 to v1.11.0 \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218154156/https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, a method of reducing power consumption without decreasing performance
	*CPU thermal design power (TDP)<ref name=":4">{{Cite web \|last=@eXplode \|date=2024-12-18 \|title=How to Stop Automatic BIOS Updates and some hate for BIOS 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002181913/https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|archive-date=2025-10-02 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>		*CPU thermal design power (TDP)<ref name=":4">{{Cite web \|last=@eXplode \|date=2024-12-18 \|title=How to Stop Automatic BIOS Updates and some hate for BIOS 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002181913/https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|archive-date=2025-10-02 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>
	*Fan control.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Mell \|date=2025-10-4 \|title=G713qm fan problem bios 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/g713qm-fan-problem-bios-331/td-p/1118443 \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>		*Fan control.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Mell \|date=2025-10-04 \|title=G713qm fan problem bios 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/g713qm-fan-problem-bios-331/td-p/1118443 \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>

	===Reduced reliability/Planned obsolescence===		===Reduced reliability/Planned obsolescence===

AnotherConsumerRightsPerson: http to https with AutoWikiBrowser, replaced: http: → https: (2)

2026-02-11T17:38:58Z

http to https with AutoWikiBrowser, replaced: http: → https: (2)

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:38, 11 February 2026
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	Basic Input/Output System, also known as BIOS, is a type of firmware used to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs and to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on startup)<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Kozierok \|first=Charles M \|date=2001-04-17 \|title=Ref — System BIOS \|url=~~http~~://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190218194254/~~http~~://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|archive-date=2019-02-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=The PC Guide}}</ref>.		Basic Input/Output System, also known as BIOS, is a type of firmware used to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs and to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on startup)<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Kozierok \|first=Charles M \|date=2001-04-17 \|title=Ref — System BIOS \|url=https://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190218194254/https://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|archive-date=2019-02-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=The PC Guide}}</ref>.

	Generally speaking, a working computer's BIOS doesn't need to be updated frequently due to the instinct risk of BIOS flashing<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-04-12 \|title=FlashBIOS \|url=https://wiki.debian.org/FlashBIOS \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=Debian Wiki}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-12-12 \|title=Flashing BIOS from Linux \|url=https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Flashing_BIOS_from_Linux \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=ArchWiki}}</ref>. However more and more mainstream computer manufactures starts pushing BIOS updates, often without user's consent or against the user's will, causing more issues and paves the way of controlling the device further.		Generally speaking, a working computer's BIOS doesn't need to be updated frequently due to the instinct risk of BIOS flashing<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-04-12 \|title=FlashBIOS \|url=https://wiki.debian.org/FlashBIOS \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=Debian Wiki}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-12-12 \|title=Flashing BIOS from Linux \|url=https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Flashing_BIOS_from_Linux \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=ArchWiki}}</ref>. However more and more mainstream computer manufactures starts pushing BIOS updates, often without user's consent or against the user's will, causing more issues and paves the way of controlling the device further.

Charlie 6: added references about Arch and Debian wiki pages warning the risk of flashing bios

2025-12-31T10:43:13Z

added references about Arch and Debian wiki pages warning the risk of flashing bios

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:43, 31 December 2025
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	Basic Input/Output System, also known as BIOS, is a type of firmware used to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs and to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on startup)<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Kozierok \|first=Charles M \|date=2001-04-17 \|title=Ref — System BIOS \|url=http://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190218194254/http://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|archive-date=2019-02-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=The PC Guide}}</ref>.		Basic Input/Output System, also known as BIOS, is a type of firmware used to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs and to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on startup)<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Kozierok \|first=Charles M \|date=2001-04-17 \|title=Ref — System BIOS \|url=http://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190218194254/http://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm \|archive-date=2019-02-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=The PC Guide}}</ref>.

	Generally speaking, a ~~good running~~ computer's BIOS doesn't need to be updated frequently due to the instinct risk of BIOS flashing. However more and more mainstream computer manufactures starts pushing BIOS updates, often without user's consent or against the user's will, causing more issues and paves the way of controlling the device further.		Generally speaking, a working computer's BIOS doesn't need to be updated frequently due to the instinct risk of BIOS flashing<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-04-12 \|title=FlashBIOS \|url=https://wiki.debian.org/FlashBIOS \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=Debian Wiki}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-12-12 \|title=Flashing BIOS from Linux \|url=https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Flashing_BIOS_from_Linux \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=ArchWiki}}</ref>. However more and more mainstream computer manufactures starts pushing BIOS updates, often without user's consent or against the user's will, causing more issues and paves the way of controlling the device further.

	==How it works==		==How it works==

Charlie 6: /* Examples */ added a picture

2025-12-31T10:19:08Z

Examples: added a picture

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:19, 31 December 2025
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	==Examples==		==Examples==
			[[File:Alienwarebiosrollback.png\|thumb\|From a comment on a laptop repair video<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Parts-People Dell Laptop Experts \|date=2024-12-28 \|title=Laptop Destroyed By Windows Update {{!}} Make It Stop! Microsoft \|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvhUPIkKt1s \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-31 \|website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref>, a Dell user had to roll back a forced BIOS update to restore GPU performance.]]
	These examples are non-exhaustive, some known instances are currently not listed due to insufficient source(s). All the examples below have BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update.		These examples are non-exhaustive, some known instances are currently not listed due to insufficient source(s). All the examples below have BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update.

Charlie 6: /* Pushing the BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update */ Fixed a wrong link

2025-12-31T09:39:36Z

Pushing the BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update: Fixed a wrong link

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:39, 31 December 2025
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	===Pushing the BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update===		===Pushing the BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update===
	Traditionally, BIOS updates are done via a USB stick, which contains a FAT32 partition with bootloader and BIOS content. Recently the BIOS firmware is listed under Windows driver updates. Nowadays these updates are no longer under the "optional" category<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@fec32a4de \|date=2025-11-19 \|title=How do I prevent Windows update from updating BIOS \|url=https://www.~~reddit~~.com/r/~~HPOmen~~/~~comments/13lh22k/new_omen_wont_turn_off_lights_and_fan_in_sleep~~/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218145243/https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/how-do-i-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-bios.343076/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=TechPowerUp}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web \|last=@redxps630 \|date=2022-07-16 \|title=how to prevent Windows Update from updating your bios \|url=https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021113238/https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 \|archive-date=2023-10-21 \|access-date=2023-10-21 \|website=Dell Community}}</ref>.		Traditionally, BIOS updates are done via a USB stick, which contains a FAT32 partition with bootloader and BIOS content. Recently the BIOS firmware is listed under Windows driver updates. Nowadays these updates are no longer under the "optional" category<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@fec32a4de \|date=2025-11-19 \|title=How do I prevent Windows update from updating BIOS \|url=https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/how-do-i-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-bios.343076/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218145243/https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/how-do-i-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-bios.343076/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=TechPowerUp}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web \|last=@redxps630 \|date=2022-07-16 \|title=how to prevent Windows Update from updating your bios \|url=https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021113238/https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 \|archive-date=2023-10-21 \|access-date=2023-10-21 \|website=Dell Community}}</ref>.

	===Blocking BIOS downgrade===		===Blocking BIOS downgrade===

Charlie 6: /* HP */ added blocked RAM speed

2025-12-28T21:20:08Z

HP: added blocked RAM speed

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	===HP===		===HP===
	~~Disabled~~ ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.		Blocked RAM speed<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Gburns53 \|date=2021-10-25 \|title=Forced BIOS update \|url=https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Gaming-Desktops/Forced-BIOS-update/td-p/8198864 \|url-status=live \|archive-date= \|access-date=2025-12-28 \|website=HP Community}}</ref>, disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.

	===Lenovo===		===Lenovo===

Charlie 6: Fixed a typo, added two references

2025-12-20T04:42:20Z

Fixed a typo, added two references

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:42, 20 December 2025
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	==How it works==		==How it works==

	=== Pushing the BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update ===		===Pushing the BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update===
	Traditionally, BIOS updates are done via a USB stick, which contains a FAT32 partition with bootloader and BIOS content. Recently the BIOS firmware is listed under Windows driver updates. Nowadays these updates are no longer under the "optional" category<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@fec32a4de \|date=2025-11-19 \|title=How do I prevent Windows update from updating BIOS \|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/HPOmen/comments/13lh22k/new_omen_wont_turn_off_lights_and_fan_in_sleep/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218145243/https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/how-do-i-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-bios.343076/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=TechPowerUp}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web \|last=@redxps630 \|date=2022-07-16 \|title=how to prevent Windows Update from updating your bios \|url=https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021113238/https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 \|archive-date=2023-10-21 \|access-date=2023-10-21 \|website=Dell Community}}</ref>.		Traditionally, BIOS updates are done via a USB stick, which contains a FAT32 partition with bootloader and BIOS content. Recently the BIOS firmware is listed under Windows driver updates. Nowadays these updates are no longer under the "optional" category<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@fec32a4de \|date=2025-11-19 \|title=How do I prevent Windows update from updating BIOS \|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/HPOmen/comments/13lh22k/new_omen_wont_turn_off_lights_and_fan_in_sleep/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218145243/https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/how-do-i-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-bios.343076/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=TechPowerUp}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web \|last=@redxps630 \|date=2022-07-16 \|title=how to prevent Windows Update from updating your bios \|url=https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021113238/https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 \|archive-date=2023-10-21 \|access-date=2023-10-21 \|website=Dell Community}}</ref>.

	=== Blocking BIOS downgrade ===		===Blocking BIOS downgrade===
	In some computer models and BIOS versions, downgrade is blocked or "unsupported"<ref name=":1">{{Cite web \|last=@ronyh \|first= \|date=2022-11-23 \|title=BIOS Update blocked due to unsupported downgrade \|url=https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/optiplex-desktops/bios-update-blocked-due-to-unsupported-downgrade/647fa0dff4ccf8a8de5fbbd1 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225053720/https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/optiplex-desktops/bios-update-blocked-due-to-unsupported-downgrade/647fa0dff4ccf8a8de5fbbd1 \|archive-date=2024-02-25 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Dell Community}}</ref>, preventing the user from regaining lost functionalities.		In some computer models and BIOS versions, downgrade is blocked or "unsupported"<ref name=":1">{{Cite web \|last=@ronyh \|first= \|date=2022-11-23 \|title=BIOS Update blocked due to unsupported downgrade \|url=https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/optiplex-desktops/bios-update-blocked-due-to-unsupported-downgrade/647fa0dff4ccf8a8de5fbbd1 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225053720/https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/optiplex-desktops/bios-update-blocked-due-to-unsupported-downgrade/647fa0dff4ccf8a8de5fbbd1 \|archive-date=2024-02-25 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Dell Community}}</ref>, preventing the user from regaining lost functionalities.

	=== Removal of previous BIOS download link ===		===Removal of previous BIOS download link===

	==Why it is a problem==		==Why it is a problem==

	=== Retroactive removal of functionalities ===		===Retroactive removal of functionalities===
	Here's a non-exclusive list of removed functionalities:		Here's a non-exclusive list of removed functionalities:

	* ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2">{{Cite web \|last=@mcgrubhub \|date=2022-01-24 \|title=Enable S3 Sleep State in BIOS Firmware Options \|url=https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktops-Archive-Read-Only/Enable-S3-Sleep-State-in-BIOS-Firmware/td-p/8283201 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218153346/https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktops-Archive-Read-Only/Enable-S3-Sleep-State-in-BIOS-Firmware/td-p/8283201 \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=HP Community}}</ref>, also known as "deep" sleep or "suspend-to-RAM"		*ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2">{{Cite web \|last=@mcgrubhub \|date=2022-01-24 \|title=Enable S3 Sleep State in BIOS Firmware Options \|url=https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktops-Archive-Read-Only/Enable-S3-Sleep-State-in-BIOS-Firmware/td-p/8283201 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218153346/https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktops-Archive-Read-Only/Enable-S3-Sleep-State-in-BIOS-Firmware/td-p/8283201 \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=HP Community}}</ref>, also known as "deep" sleep or "suspend-to-RAM"
	* Undervolting<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|last=@u/DarkKnight04081995 \|date=2020-11-17 \|title=[GUIDE] Inspiron 7567: Bios downgrade from v1.12.1 to v1.11.0 \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218154156/https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, a method of reducing power consumption without decreasing performance		*Undervolting<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|last=@u/DarkKnight04081995 \|date=2020-11-17 \|title=[GUIDE] Inspiron 7567: Bios downgrade from v1.12.1 to v1.11.0 \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218154156/https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, a method of reducing power consumption without decreasing performance
	* CPU thermal design power (TDP)<ref name=":4">{{Cite web \|last=@eXplode \|date=2024-12-18 \|title=How to Stop Automatic BIOS Updates and some hate for BIOS 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002181913/https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|archive-date=2025-10-02 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>		*CPU thermal design power (TDP)<ref name=":4">{{Cite web \|last=@eXplode \|date=2024-12-18 \|title=How to Stop Automatic BIOS Updates and some hate for BIOS 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002181913/https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 \|archive-date=2025-10-02 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>
	* Fan control.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Mell \|date=2025-10-4 \|title=G713qm fan problem bios 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/g713qm-fan-problem-bios-331/td-p/1118443 \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>		*Fan control.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Mell \|date=2025-10-4 \|title=G713qm fan problem bios 331 \|url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/g713qm-fan-problem-bios-331/td-p/1118443 \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>

	=== Reduced reliability/Planned obsolescence ===		===Reduced reliability/Planned obsolescence===
	[[File:Asus bat chg v low.png\|thumb\|216x216px\|Asus lowered the battery charging voltage to less than 16.6V, despite its 17.6V limited charging voltage.]]		[[File:Asus bat chg v low.png\|thumb\|216x216px\|Asus lowered the battery charging voltage to less than 16.6V, despite its 17.6V limited charging voltage.]]
	Users reporting increased coil whine after a certain BIOS update<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@ tom.m.culle150a02ca \|date=2024-01-12 \|title=Coil whine after bios update \|url=https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218183546/https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=MSI Global English Forum}}</ref>, possibly reducing reliability and increasing the failure rate.		Users reporting increased coil whine after a certain BIOS update<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@ tom.m.culle150a02ca \|date=2024-01-12 \|title=Coil whine after bios update \|url=https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218183546/https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=MSI Global English Forum}}</ref>, possibly reducing reliability and increasing the failure rate.
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	On some laptops, the battery capacity is restricted by reducing the charging voltage after a BIOS update, causing premature battery endurance decline. This practice is similar to [[Google Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program]] but without official announcement.		On some laptops, the battery capacity is restricted by reducing the charging voltage after a BIOS update, causing premature battery endurance decline. This practice is similar to [[Google Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program]] but without official announcement.

	=== Undermining ownership ===		===Undermining ownership===
	Manufacturers who force BIOS update often claim that blocking downgrade as "security features" to stop "bad player" from accessing the BIOS<ref name=":1" />. This is a classic example of "secure against the user"<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-12-14 \|title=Proprietary Back Doors \|url=https://www.gnu.org/proprietary/proprietary-back-doors.html#universal \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218062339/https://www.gnu.org/proprietary/proprietary-back-doors.html \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=GNU Operating System}}</ref>.		Manufacturers who force BIOS update often claim that blocking downgrade as "security features" to stop "bad player" from accessing the BIOS<ref name=":1" />. This is a classic example of "secure against the user"<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2025-12-14 \|title=Proprietary Back Doors \|url=https://www.gnu.org/proprietary/proprietary-back-doors.html#universal \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218062339/https://www.gnu.org/proprietary/proprietary-back-doors.html \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=GNU Operating System}}</ref>.

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	These examples are non-exhaustive, some known instances are currently not listed due to insufficient source(s). All the examples below have BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update.		These examples are non-exhaustive, some known instances are currently not listed due to insufficient source(s). All the examples below have BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update.

	=== Dell ===		===Dell===
	Blocked downgrade<ref name=":1" />, removed undervolting<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web \|last=@WorldDj \|date=2020-09-20 \|title=Another victim of the BIOS update unfortunately \|url=https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/another-victim-of-the-bios-update-unfortunately.272361/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218173346/https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/another-victim-of-the-bios-update-unfortunately.272361/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=TechPowerUp}}</ref>, removed previous BIOS download links<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Driver unavailable \|url=https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-us/drivers/driversdetails?driverid=c5jy9 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Dell Product Support}}</ref>.		Blocked downgrade<ref name=":1" />, removed undervolting<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web \|last=@WorldDj \|date=2020-09-20 \|title=Another victim of the BIOS update unfortunately \|url=https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/another-victim-of-the-bios-update-unfortunately.272361/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218173346/https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/another-victim-of-the-bios-update-unfortunately.272361/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=TechPowerUp}}</ref>, removed previous BIOS download links<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Driver unavailable \|url=https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-us/drivers/driversdetails?driverid=c5jy9 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=Dell Product Support}}</ref>.

	=== Asus ===		===Asus===
	[[File:Ec update bricked bms 1.png\|thumb\|224x224px\|A forced EC firmware update bricked an ASUS user's battery. Customer support was unhelpful]]		[[File:Ec update bricked bms 1.png\|thumb\|224x224px\|A forced EC firmware update bricked an ASUS user's battery. Customer support was unhelpful]]
	Reduced TDP<ref name=":4" />, blocked downgrade, bricked battery.		Reduced TDP<ref name=":4" />, blocked downgrade, bricked battery.

	=== HP ===		===HP===
	Disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.		Disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.

	=== Lenovo ===		===Lenovo===
	Disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Matusaprod \|date=2023-07-15 \|title=Linux sleep mode on newer thinkpad missing? \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218181844/https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>.		Disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@Matusaprod \|date=2023-07-15 \|title=Linux sleep mode on newer thinkpad missing? \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218181844/https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ \|archive-date=2025-12-18 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>.

	== Countermeasures ==		==Countermeasures==

	=== Disabling UEFI Encapsulation ===		===Disabling UEFI Encapsulation===
	On some computer models, UEFI Encapsulation can be disabled in BIOS settings<ref name=":0" />, disallowing the exchange of configuration data between the operating system and the UEFI firmware.		On some computer models, UEFI Encapsulation can be disabled in BIOS settings<ref name=":0" />, disallowing the exchange of configuration data between the operating system and the UEFI firmware.

	=== Enabling "Do not include drivers with windows updates" in Group Policy ===		===Enabling "Do not include drivers with windows updates" in Group Policy===
	Using Group Policy editor (gpedit.msc), users are able to ~~elude~~ driver updates from Windows update<ref name=":0" /> since BIOS is often considered under drivers category. However, this method does not grantee success.		Using Group Policy editor (gpedit.msc), users are able to exclude driver updates from Windows update<ref name=":0" /> since BIOS is often considered under drivers category. However, this method does not grantee success.

	=== Using a free operating system ===		===Using a free operating system===
	Free operating systems such as GNU/Linux respect user freedom. BIOS updates can be manually initiated using LVFS/fwupd		Free operating systems such as GNU/Linux respect user freedom. BIOS updates can be manually initiated using LVFS/fwupd

	=== Board-level repair ===		===Board-level repair===
	Flashing BIOS firmware on a bricked laptop can be done by using a custom programmer<ref name=":5" />.		Flashing BIOS firmware on a bricked laptop can be done by using a custom programmer<ref name=":5" />.

	=== Non-BIOS mitigation methods ===		===Non-BIOS mitigation methods===
	Some functions can be re-enabled without downgrading BIOS. Advanced BIOS<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@u/Dijkmeneer \|date=2022-12-19 \|title=How to disable Modern sleep and enable s3 sleep on a lenovo laptop \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Lenovo/comments/zq3tc5/how_to_disable_modern_sleep_and_enable_s3_sleep/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240520204041/https://old.reddit.com/r/Lenovo/comments/zq3tc5/how_to_disable_modern_sleep_and_enable_s3_sleep/ \|archive-date=2024-05-20 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, OpenCore, ~~UMAF~~.		Some functions can be re-enabled without downgrading BIOS. Advanced BIOS<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@u/Dijkmeneer \|date=2022-12-19 \|title=How to disable Modern sleep and enable s3 sleep on a lenovo laptop \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Lenovo/comments/zq3tc5/how_to_disable_modern_sleep_and_enable_s3_sleep/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240520204041/https://old.reddit.com/r/Lenovo/comments/zq3tc5/how_to_disable_modern_sleep_and_enable_s3_sleep/ \|archive-date=2024-05-20 \|access-date=2025-12-18 \|website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, OpenCore<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@MotorBottle \|date=2023-10-01 \|title=Enable S3 Sleep on ROG X13/G14/15 2021/2022 using OpenCore \|url=https://github.com/MotorBottle/S3-Sleep-on-Rog-X13-G14-15-2021-2022-using-OpenCore \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250618061353/https://github.com/MotorBottle/S3-Sleep-on-Rog-X13-G14-15-2021-2022-using-OpenCore \|archive-date=2025-06-18 \|access-date=2025-12-19 \|website=[[Github]]}}</ref>, Smokeless_UMAF<ref>{{Cite web \|last=@DavidS95 \|date=2023-05-07 \|title=Bios Flasher? Where We’re Going, We Don’t Need Bios Flasher? \|url=https://github.com/DavidS95/Smokeless_UMAF \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250925010047/https://github.com/DavidS95/Smokeless_UMAF/ \|archive-date=2025-09-25 \|access-date=2025-12-19 \|website=[[Github]]}}</ref>.

	==References==		==References==

Charlie 6: Created the page, added descriptions, still WIP

2025-12-18T19:51:08Z

Created the page, added descriptions, still WIP

New page

Basic Input/Output System, also known as BIOS, is a type of firmware used to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs and to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on startup)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kozierok |first=Charles M |date=2001-04-17 |title=Ref — System BIOS |url=http://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190218194254/http://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/bios/index.htm |archive-date=2019-02-18 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=The PC Guide}}</ref>.

Generally speaking, a good running computer's BIOS doesn't need to be updated frequently due to the instinct risk of BIOS flashing. However more and more mainstream computer manufactures starts pushing BIOS updates, often without user's consent or against the user's will, causing more issues and paves the way of controlling the device further.

==How it works==

=== Pushing the BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update ===
Traditionally, BIOS updates are done via a USB stick, which contains a FAT32 partition with bootloader and BIOS content. Recently the BIOS firmware is listed under Windows driver updates. Nowadays these updates are no longer under the "optional" category<ref>{{Cite web |last=@fec32a4de |date=2025-11-19 |title=How do I prevent Windows update from updating BIOS |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/HPOmen/comments/13lh22k/new_omen_wont_turn_off_lights_and_fan_in_sleep/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218145243/https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/how-do-i-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-bios.343076/ |archive-date=2025-12-18 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=TechPowerUp}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=@redxps630 |date=2022-07-16 |title=how to prevent Windows Update from updating your bios |url=https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021113238/https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/how-to-prevent-windows-update-from-updating-your-bios/647f9de8f4ccf8a8de267068 |archive-date=2023-10-21 |access-date=2023-10-21 |website=Dell Community}}</ref>.

=== Blocking BIOS downgrade ===
In some computer models and BIOS versions, downgrade is blocked or "unsupported"<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=@ronyh |first= |date=2022-11-23 |title=BIOS Update blocked due to unsupported downgrade |url=https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/optiplex-desktops/bios-update-blocked-due-to-unsupported-downgrade/647fa0dff4ccf8a8de5fbbd1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225053720/https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/optiplex-desktops/bios-update-blocked-due-to-unsupported-downgrade/647fa0dff4ccf8a8de5fbbd1 |archive-date=2024-02-25 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=Dell Community}}</ref>, preventing the user from regaining lost functionalities.

=== Removal of previous BIOS download link ===

==Why it is a problem==

=== Retroactive removal of functionalities ===
Here's a non-exclusive list of removed functionalities:

* ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=@mcgrubhub |date=2022-01-24 |title=Enable S3 Sleep State in BIOS Firmware Options |url=https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktops-Archive-Read-Only/Enable-S3-Sleep-State-in-BIOS-Firmware/td-p/8283201 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218153346/https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktops-Archive-Read-Only/Enable-S3-Sleep-State-in-BIOS-Firmware/td-p/8283201 |archive-date=2025-12-18 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=HP Community}}</ref>, also known as "deep" sleep or "suspend-to-RAM"
* Undervolting<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=@u/DarkKnight04081995 |date=2020-11-17 |title=[GUIDE] Inspiron 7567: Bios downgrade from v1.12.1 to v1.11.0 |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218154156/https://old.reddit.com/r/Dell/comments/jw06pe/guide_inspiron_7567_bios_downgrade_from_v1121_to/ |archive-date=2025-12-18 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, a method of reducing power consumption without decreasing performance
* CPU thermal design power (TDP)<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=@eXplode |date=2024-12-18 |title=How to Stop Automatic BIOS Updates and some hate for BIOS 331 |url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002181913/https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/how-to-stop-automatic-bios-updates-and-some-hate-for-bios-331/td-p/1064184 |archive-date=2025-10-02 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>
* Fan control.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@Mell |date=2025-10-4 |title=G713qm fan problem bios 331 |url=https://rog-forum.asus.com/t5/rog-strix-series/g713qm-fan-problem-bios-331/td-p/1118443 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=Republic of Gamers Forum}}</ref>

=== Reduced reliability/Planned obsolescence ===
[[File:Asus bat chg v low.png|thumb|216x216px|Asus lowered the battery charging voltage to less than 16.6V, despite its 17.6V limited charging voltage.]]
Users reporting increased coil whine after a certain BIOS update<ref>{{Cite web |last=@ tom.m.culle150a02ca |date=2024-01-12 |title=Coil whine after bios update |url=https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218183546/https://forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/coil-whine-after-bios-update.392641/ |archive-date=2025-12-18 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=MSI Global English Forum}}</ref>, possibly reducing reliability and increasing the failure rate.

Due to its unpredictable and forced nature, uncommanded BIOS updates have a higher chance of bricking the computer<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=@Parts-People Dell Laptop Experts |date=2025-11-02 |title=New Day, Another Bricked Laptop From Windows Update! |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tRSjfFBtME |url-status=live |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref>, such as interrupted BIOS update in the user's backpack due to over-temperature or battery depletion.

On some laptops, the battery capacity is restricted by reducing the charging voltage after a BIOS update, causing premature battery endurance decline. This practice is similar to [[Google Pixel 6a Battery Performance Program]] but without official announcement.

=== Undermining ownership ===
Manufacturers who force BIOS update often claim that blocking downgrade as "security features" to stop "bad player" from accessing the BIOS<ref name=":1" />. This is a classic example of "secure against the user"<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-12-14 |title=Proprietary Back Doors |url=https://www.gnu.org/proprietary/proprietary-back-doors.html#universal |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218062339/https://www.gnu.org/proprietary/proprietary-back-doors.html |archive-date=2025-12-18 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=GNU Operating System}}</ref>.

==Examples==
These examples are non-exhaustive, some known instances are currently not listed due to insufficient source(s). All the examples below have BIOS update as non-optional Windows Update.

=== Dell ===
Blocked downgrade<ref name=":1" />, removed undervolting<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=@WorldDj |date=2020-09-20 |title=Another victim of the BIOS update unfortunately |url=https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/another-victim-of-the-bios-update-unfortunately.272361/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218173346/https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/another-victim-of-the-bios-update-unfortunately.272361/ |archive-date=2025-12-18 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=TechPowerUp}}</ref>, removed previous BIOS download links<ref>{{Cite web |title=Driver unavailable |url=https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-us/drivers/driversdetails?driverid=c5jy9 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=Dell Product Support}}</ref>.

=== Asus ===
[[File:Ec update bricked bms 1.png|thumb|224x224px|A forced EC firmware update bricked an ASUS user's battery. Customer support was unhelpful]]
Reduced TDP<ref name=":4" />, blocked downgrade, bricked battery.

=== HP ===
Disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref name=":2" />, blocked downgrade.

=== Lenovo ===
Disabled ACPI S3 sleep state<ref>{{Cite web |last=@Matusaprod |date=2023-07-15 |title=Linux sleep mode on newer thinkpad missing? |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251218181844/https://old.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/comments/1505if1/linux_sleep_mode_on_newer_thinkpad_missing/ |archive-date=2025-12-18 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>.

== Countermeasures ==

=== Disabling UEFI Encapsulation ===
On some computer models, UEFI Encapsulation can be disabled in BIOS settings<ref name=":0" />, disallowing the exchange of configuration data between the operating system and the UEFI firmware.

=== Enabling "Do not include drivers with windows updates" in Group Policy ===
Using Group Policy editor (gpedit.msc), users are able to elude driver updates from Windows update<ref name=":0" /> since BIOS is often considered under drivers category. However, this method does not grantee success.

=== Using a free operating system ===
Free operating systems such as GNU/Linux respect user freedom. BIOS updates can be manually initiated using LVFS/fwupd

=== Board-level repair ===
Flashing BIOS firmware on a bricked laptop can be done by using a custom programmer<ref name=":5" />.

=== Non-BIOS mitigation methods ===
Some functions can be re-enabled without downgrading BIOS. Advanced BIOS<ref>{{Cite web |last=@u/Dijkmeneer |date=2022-12-19 |title=How to disable Modern sleep and enable s3 sleep on a lenovo laptop |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Lenovo/comments/zq3tc5/how_to_disable_modern_sleep_and_enable_s3_sleep/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240520204041/https://old.reddit.com/r/Lenovo/comments/zq3tc5/how_to_disable_modern_sleep_and_enable_s3_sleep/ |archive-date=2024-05-20 |access-date=2025-12-18 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>, OpenCore, UMAF.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]