Perhaps the most important step that should be followed during the unlocking of BIOS is to make a backup of the current BIOS settings.
Some of the most common risks involve system instability, issues with booting the computer, or hardware failure as a result of changes made to BIOS.
Since you have a backup, it is easy to restore the system to the normal state in case things get out of hand.
To back up your settings:
- Backup BIOS Settings – The BIOS coming into the picture offers an option on the interface that enables the user to back up the current settings file.
This particular feature is usually located in the “Save and Exit” option of the bios mode.
This way it is easy to copy the attached file from a USB drive or an external storage device in case of data loss. - System restore points – If you are using Windows operating system then it is wise to create restore point before tweaking BIOS settings.
This permits you to revert the BIOS unlock back to a previous state in the event of fresh complications emerging after unlocking the BIOS.
Optional to advance user: it may be recommended to record all the BIOS settings (such as the CPU settings, the memory timings, boot order etc.) at present before changing anything.
This can be really advantageous for a person if only the motherboard of a computer does not possess the automatic method of backup.
In the case of backing up settings, it helps one to have a backup in case they wish to restore the settings to the previous settings.
This minimizes the risks of failure in the system and enables one to make corrections with an assured mind.
Use Manufacturer Tools
In most cases, trying to unlock the BIOS possesses a high risk since it is always better to use the official tools and techniques offered by the manufacturers of the motherboard.
These tools are made for your specific hardware and are quite less likely to have any problems on the side.
Do not try to use ‘BIOS unlocking tools’ from third-party software or from applications that are installed in Utilities.
Below are some of the ways through which one can use official tools safely:
- Go BIOS Manufacturer’s website – ASUS, MSI and Gigabyte may have tools that advance users in changing BIOS settings.
Such tools guarantee that you’re properly calibrated and do not make a mistake when you select the option manually. - In addition, an increasing number of manufacturers release the applications for updating the BIOS, which helps to update the BIOS Version to the latest one.
Some of the updates could be security updates, fixes to various issues and adding new features to make the program more customized.
However, such tools are quite safe and effective when downloaded from the manufacturer’s website only. - Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions – The guidelines of every manufacturer vary when it comes to the process of updating or unlocking the BIOS.
Fortunately, it is relatively easy to accomplish this provided you go through all their instructions as this will prevent you from voiding your warranty and or damaging your hardware.
Since BIOS is a sensitive aspect of any hardware, using the manufacturing tools reduces some of the risks of making alterations that are likely to harm the system.
