I see many mixed reports about your motherboard and CPU compatibility. Let me clarify the details for you.

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220

01-04-2017, 05:00 PM

#1

The attached document contains my BIOS version and CPU details. I plan to upgrade to an i7 9800x. While many sources say my X299 SLI Plus board works with it, the MSI comparison page lists a different download file, suggesting another version. Should I update my motherboard or BIOS? I’m worried because changing it could cost a lot and risk damaging my computer.

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walee123
Senior Member

737

01-09-2017, 11:35 PM

#2

Attempt to start using the new CPU. If it works, you're fine; if not, reinstall the older one and consider a BIOS update. I saw similar info for a B450 with an Ryzen 5 3600—after checking further, they seem to require a BIOS update first.

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xEchoz
Member

208

01-09-2017, 11:55 PM

#3

You're unsure about changing your profile information and hear warnings about potential risks. It's important to research thoroughly before making any updates.

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Shotdown
Junior Member

16

01-27-2017, 04:39 PM

#4

Updating the BIOS is straightforward: get the newest file from the maker’s site and begin the setup. If power drops during installation, you might need a fresh motherboard—this isn’t a routine occurrence. To locate details about your upcoming BIOS install, start by checking the manufacturer’s documentation first.

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elfman35
Junior Member

45

01-29-2017, 04:06 AM

#5

Updating the BIOS carries risk mainly when power cuts out during the process, potentially damaging the motherboard unless it supports updates without a CPU in the socket. Ensure stable power or an UPS is available for about 1-2 minutes. Typical methods include: extracting the zip file to a USB drive with FAT32 format, then using BIOS to choose an update option and transfer the file; or downloading a BIOS updater from MSI, which identifies your board model, downloads the appropriate update, and uploads it from Windows.

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TheFox2971
Member

56

01-29-2017, 10:04 AM

#6

Do you confirm this completely? I wasn’t told that updating the BIOS involves using a USB drive and starting the BIOS interface first.

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ItzGum231
Member

60

01-29-2017, 02:53 PM

#7

She mentioned her friend's experience after updating her profile, which led to her HDD failing and requiring a replacement and full reinstallation, including Windows. This situation raises concerns for me.

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Glqbal
Member

173

01-29-2017, 05:43 PM

#8

I wasn't sure about the setup, sorry. Follow the instructions for your motherboard. Probably because a new feature in the BIOS, if you're concerned, back up your important data first. After that, reinstalling Windows should work fine and it will take a few minutes.

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Shad0wHydra13
Senior Member

716

02-02-2017, 03:10 AM

#9

This situation might occur when someone accidentally installed BIOS for another version of the motherboard, which is uncommon. The model and revision details are typically displayed on the board itself and also appear in the BIOS. Another chance is that certain BIOS settings were altered or reset to defaults unintentionally, leaving the user unsure how to restore them. For instance, if the SATA controller was initially set to "IDE compatibility mode" while the "performance option" was configured as "AHCI mode," a post-BIOS update might revert it back to the non-AHCI default. This could prevent Windows from launching until the setting is reverted. On contemporary boards, it's possible to preserve all configurations into a profile prior to updating the BIOS. After a BIOS upgrade, you can restore defaults by loading the saved profile to ensure every parameter retains a reasonable value, then apply the profile to recover the original settings before the update. It's wise to verify settings after a BIOS change, as some may automatically revert to defaults that aren't optimal for speed or performance.