What To Know
- Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a troubleshooting pro, or simply curious about the inner workings of your Surface device, knowing how to check the firmware version is essential.
- If you’re experiencing a particular issue, knowing the firmware version can help you determine if it’s a known bug and if a newer update might offer a solution.
- For more advanced users, the Command Prompt provides a way to check the firmware version through a command line interface.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a troubleshooting pro, or simply curious about the inner workings of your Surface device, knowing how to check the firmware version is essential. Firmware, the software that controls the hardware components of your Surface, plays a crucial role in its performance and stability. By understanding how to check its version, you can stay informed about updates, identify potential issues, and even troubleshoot problems more effectively. This guide will walk you through the different methods for checking your Surface firmware version, empowering you to gain a deeper understanding of your device.
Why Should You Check Your Surface Firmware Version?
Knowing your Surface firmware version can be beneficial in various ways:
- Staying Up-to-Date: Firmware updates are regularly released to address security vulnerabilities, improve performance, and introduce new features. Checking your firmware version allows you to ensure you’re running the latest version and benefiting from these enhancements.
- Troubleshooting Issues: When encountering problems with your Surface, the firmware version can provide valuable clues. If you’re experiencing a particular issue, knowing the firmware version can help you determine if it’s a known bug and if a newer update might offer a solution.
- Understanding Compatibility: Some applications and accessories might require specific firmware versions to function properly. Checking your firmware version ensures compatibility and avoids potential issues.
- Troubleshooting with Support: When contacting Microsoft support for technical assistance, providing your firmware version can help them diagnose and resolve your issue more efficiently.
Method 1: Checking Firmware Version through Windows Settings
The most straightforward method to check your Surface firmware version is through the Windows Settings app:
1. Open Settings: Press the Windows key ++ I to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to System: Click on “System” from the left-hand menu.
3. Select “About”: Click on “About” from the right-hand menu.
4. Locate “Firmware Version“: Scroll down the “About” page and look for the “Firmware Version” entry. The firmware version will be displayed next to it.
Method 2: Checking Firmware Version through Command Prompt
For more advanced users, the Command Prompt provides a way to check the firmware version through a command line interface:
1. Open Command Prompt: Search for “cmd” in the Windows search bar and open the Command Prompt.
2. Run the Command: Type the following command and press Enter:
“`
systeminfo
“`
3. Find Firmware Version: The output will display various system information, including the “BIOS Version/Date” which corresponds to the Surface firmware version.
Method 3: Checking Firmware Version through Device Manager
Device Manager, a built-in Windows tool, can also be used to check your Surface firmware version:
1. Open Device Manager: Right-click the “Start” button and select “Device Manager.”
2. Expand “System Devices“: Locate and expand the “System devices” category.
3. Find “Surface System Device“: Look for an entry labeled “Surface System Device” or similar.
4. Check Properties: Right-click the “Surface System Device” entry and select “Properties.”
5. View Firmware Version: Navigate to the “Details” tab and select “Hardware Ids” from the “Property” dropdown. The firmware version will be listed among the hardware IDs.
Method 4: Checking Firmware Version through Surface UEFI Settings
For more technical users, accessing the Surface UEFI settings offers a direct way to check the firmware version:
1. Access UEFI Settings: Turn off your Surface and press and hold the volume up button while pressing the power button. Continue holding both buttons until the Surface UEFI screen appears.
2. Locate Firmware Version: Navigate through the UEFI settings menu to find the “System Information” or “About” section. The firmware version should be displayed in this section.
Method 5: Checking Firmware Version through Surface Update History
If you’ve recently updated your Surface firmware, you can find the version information in the update history:
1. Open Settings: Press the Windows key ++ I to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Update & Security: Click on “Update & Security” from the left-hand menu.
3. Select “Update History“: Click on “Update History” from the right-hand menu.
4. View Firmware Updates: Check the list of updates for entries related to firmware updates. The version number will be included in the update description.
Understanding Firmware Versions: A Deeper Dive
Firmware versions are typically represented as a combination of numbers and letters, such as “1.0.0.0” or “1.1.1.15.” Each number or letter represents a specific component or update within the firmware.
- Major Version: The first number usually indicates a significant change or new feature release.
- Minor Version: The second number usually represents a minor update or bug fix.
- Build Number: The third number often indicates a specific build or version of the firmware.
- Revision Number: The fourth number or letter usually indicates a minor revision or patch.
Looking Ahead: Staying Informed
Checking your Surface firmware version is a proactive step towards ensuring your device’s optimal performance and security. By staying informed about updates, you can take advantage of new features, address potential issues, and keep your Surface running smoothly. Remember to check for updates regularly and consult Microsoft’s official documentation for detailed information about specific firmware versions and their features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What happens if my Surface firmware is out of date?
A1: An outdated firmware version can leave your Surface vulnerable to security threats, affect performance, and cause compatibility issues with certain applications or accessories. It’s essential to keep your firmware updated to ensure optimal functionality and security.
Q2: Can I manually update my Surface firmware?
A2: You can manually update your Surface firmware through Windows Update. Go to “Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update” and check for updates. If a firmware update is available, it will be downloaded and installed automatically.
Q3: Can I downgrade my Surface firmware version?
A3: Downgrading your Surface firmware is generally not recommended and can potentially lead to instability or malfunctions. If you’re experiencing issues with a newer firmware version, it’s best to contact Microsoft support for assistance.
Q4: How often should I check my Surface firmware version?
A4: It’s a good practice to check your Surface firmware version at least once a month to ensure you’re running the latest version. You can also enable automatic updates in Windows settings to receive firmware updates as they become available.
Q5: What are the risks associated with updating my Surface firmware?
A5: Firmware updates are generally safe and designed to improve your Surface’s performance and security. However, there’s a small risk of encountering issues during the update process. It’s always recommended to back up your data before updating your firmware. If you experience any problems, you can contact Microsoft support for assistance.
