Software Updates User Guide
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Table of contents Updating software Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................... 3 Determining the BIOS version ............................................................................................. 3 Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................... 4 Updating programs and drivers ................................................
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Updating software Updated versions of the software provided with your computer are available either through the HP Update utility or on the HP Web site. The HP Update utility automatically checks for updates from HP. The utility runs at a specified interval and provides a list of support alerts, such as security enhancements, and optional software and driver updates.
To update the software using the HP Web site, follow these steps: 1. Identify your computer model, product category, and series or family. Prepare for a system BIOS update by identifying the BIOS version currently installed on the computer. For details, refer to the "Determining the BIOS version" section. If your computer is connected to a network, consult the network administrator before installing any software updates, especially system BIOS updates.
Updating the BIOS To update the BIOS, first determine what BIOS version you currently have, and then download and install the new BIOS. Determining the BIOS version BIOS version information (also known as ROM date and System BIOS) can be displayed by pressing fn+esc (if you are already in Windows) or by using Computer Setup. To use Computer Setup for displaying BIOS information, follow these steps: 1.
Downloading a BIOS update CAUTION: To prevent damage to the computer or an unsuccessful installation, download and install a BIOS update only when the computer is connected to reliable external power using the AC adapter. Do not download or install a BIOS update while the computer is running on battery power, docked in an optional docking device, or connected to an optional power source.
NOTE: Windows® includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your computer. You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing software, running utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support for more information. 5. Complete the installation by following the instructions on the screen. NOTE: After a message on the screen reports a successful installation, you may delete the downloaded file from your hard drive.
Updating programs and drivers 1. Open your Internet browser, go to http://www.hp.com/support, and then select your country or region. 2. Click the option for software and driver downloads, type your computer model number in the product box, and then press enter. – or – If you want a specific SoftPaq, type the SoftPaq number in the Search box, at the top-right corner of the screen. Then press enter, and follow the instructions provided. Proceed to step 6. 3.
Using SoftPaq Download Manager HP SoftPaq Download Manager (SDM) is a tool that provides quick access to SoftPaq information for HP business computers without requiring the SoftPaq number. Using this tool, you can easily search for SoftPaqs and then download and unpack them. SoftPaq Download Manager works by reading and downloading, from the HP FTP site, a published database file containing computer model and SoftPaq information.
Index B BIOS update downloading installing 4 4 C computer information 3 S SoftPaq 1 SoftPaqs, downloading 6, 7 software BIOS update 4 HP Web site 1 SoftPaq 1 updates 1 updating programs and drivers 6 U updates, software 1 8 Index