How to update BIOS on a system that only use Linux as OS.
Asking this because some clowns at Acer decided that they will only provide BIOS updates through Windows Update.
Edit: I’m not talking about installing the BIOS file. They don’t even provide BIOS file in the first place.
I was going to suggest using something like WINE or Proton but thinking more about it…probably best not to do any unofficial ways since this is your BIOS firmware. Any hiccups with that and you’ve bricked your computer. Also not exactly sure how that would work unless you could download the update in a browser and it is executable in Windows as an exe and not coming from Windows Update.
Best thing I can think of is get a cheap SSD like a 128GB for around $50, install it in the computer and then install Windows to that. Then do the update on that and then remove. Maybe keep the SSD around just in case you need it.
This is all assuming your laptop supports removable drives and isn’t one of those cheap eMMC ones which I wouldn’t be surprised since it’s an Acer…
You may see if there’s a custom BIOS available. I had this on an ASUS Chromebook I got a few years ago. Chromebooks don’t officially have a BIOS but I was able to find a custom one for my model so I could load an actual Linux distro on it.
So, you are suggesting to use Windows just to update BIOS. ( Asking for clarification )
They don’t even provide BIOS file in the first place.
Yeah I think that’s your best bet then. Just installing Windows for this one purpose and doing it on a spare drive, if possible. I suppose you could clone your existing OS to a backup and then install Windows over it, do the update, and then restore the backup over the Windows install. Not just for ease but also the safest possible way since this is your BIOS we’re talking about and seems to be the only supported method by your computer’s manufacturer. Cloning would be best for this since it’s the least intrusive to your daily setup’s files and preferences.
Just curious, why do you want to update your BIOS? Is there a feature you need in the new update, a fix for something that was broke, or is there a security concern?
Most BIOS updates don’t seem to do much of anything that is directly needed for most users unless one of the things above I could think of.
That’s a bummer
Because I’m also curious. not actually wanting to update BIOS.
So, you are refusing to accept that you might just not have any other options.
I’m not refusing anything. I asked for clarification. Maybe I worded it badly.