BIOS stands for Basic Input Output System, and it functions as the first line of code that

activates when you power on your computer. BIOS connects the motherboard, components
(such as the CPU, storage), and memory, and operating system, ensuring they work together
smoothly.

BIOS (basic input/output system) is the program that computer's microprocessor uses to start
the computer system after it is powered on. It also manages data flow between the computer's
operating system (OS) and attached devices, such as the hard disk, video adapter, keyboard,
mouse and printer.
A basic input/output system or BIOS is a program fixed and embedded on a device's
microprocessor that helps to initialize hardware operations and manage the data flow to and
from the operating system (OS) at the time of bootup. Gary Kildall, a U.S. computer scientist,
invented the word BIOS in 1975.

History of BIOS
The term BIOS was first coined in 1975 by American computer scientist Gary Kildall. It was
incorporated into IBM's first personal computer in 1981 and, in the years to come, gained
popularity within other PCs, becoming an integral part of computers for some time. However,
BIOS' popularity has waned in favour of a newer technology: Unified Extensible Firmware
Interface (UEFI). Intel announced a plan in 2017 to retire support for legacy BIOS systems by
2020, replacing them with UEFI.

Uses of BIOS
 The main use of BIOS is to act as a middleman between OS and the hardware they run
on
 BIOS is theoretically always the intermediary between the microprocessor and I/O
device control information and data flow.
 Although, in some cases, BIOS can arrange for data to flow directly to memory from
devices, such as video cards, that require faster data flow to be effective.

How does BIOS work?

BIOS comes included with computers, as firmware on a chip on the motherboard. In contrast,
an OS like Windows or IOS can either be pre-installed by the manufacturer or vendor or
installed by the user. BIOS is a program that is made accessible to the microprocessor on an
erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) chip. When users turn on their
computer, the microprocessor passes control to the BIOS program, which is always located
at the same place on EPROM.

When BIOS boots up a computer, it first determines whether all of the necessary attachments
are in place and operational. Any piece of hardware containing files the computer needs to start
is called a boot device. After testing and ensuring boot devices are functioning, BIOS loads the
OS -- or key parts of it -- into the computer's random access memory (RAM) from a hard disk
or diskette drive (the boot device).
The 4 functions of BIOS
BIOS identifies, configures, tests and connects computer hardware to the OS immediately after
a computer is turned on. The combination of these steps is called the boot process.
These tasks are each carried out by BIOS' four main functions:
1. Power-on self-test (POST). This tests the hardware of the computer before loading the OS.
2. Bootstrap loader. This locates the OS.
3. Software/drivers. This locates the software and drivers that interface with the OS once
running.
4. Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) setup. This is a configuration
program that enable users to alter hardware and system settings. CMOS is the name of
BIOS' non-volatile memory.

Accessing BIOS
With BIOS, the OS and its applications are freed from having to understand exact details, such
as computer hardware addresses, about the attached I/O devices. When device details change,
only the BIOS program needs to be changed. Sometimes, this change can be made during
system setup.
Users can access BIOS and configure it through BIOS Setup Utility. Accessing BIOS Setup
Utility varies somewhat depending on the computer being used. However, the following steps
generally enable users to access and configure BIOS through Setup Utility:
 Reset or power off the computer.
 When the computer turns back on, look for a message that says "entering setup" or
something similar. Accompanying that message will be a key that the user should press to
enter system configuration. Here's an example message a user might see: "Press [key] to
enter BIOS setup." Some keys often used as prompts are Del, Tab, Esc and any of the
function keys (F1-F12).
 Upon seeing the prompt, quickly press the key specified.

Once in BIOS Setup Utility, users can change hardware settings, manage memory settings,
change the boot order or boot device, and reset the BIOS password, among other configuration
tasks.

The primary function of BIOS is to mediate between operating systems and the systems they
operate on. The BIOS is the intermediate between the CPU and I/O device control information
and data flow. In some instances, however, the BIOS may organize for information to flow
straight to storage from devices, like graphics/video cards, that need a quicker data flow to
function properly.

Most BIOS implementations are tailored to function with a specific machine or motherboard
version by connecting with numerous devices, particularly system chipsets.
Initially, BIOS software was stored on the computer motherboard on a ROM chip. In modern
systems, the BIOS is stored on flash memory, allowing it to be rebuilt without the need to
remove the chips from the motherboard. This enables user-friendly BIOS firmware upgrades
to introduce new features or rectify issues.

Modern machines with the newest versions of CPUs have the functionality required to launch
the BIOS right from the system’s ROM. If the system was just turned on (“cold boot”) or the
reset button was hit, the complete power-on self-test (POST) is executed. If Ctrl+Alt+Delete
was used (a “warm boot”), a particular indicator resting in the non-volatile BIOS memory
(“CMOS”) is verified by the BIOS to circumvent the long POST and memory detection.

The POST detects, tests, and initializes system components, including the RAM, motherboard,
chipset, video card, mouse, CPU, keyboard, hard disc drive, optical disc drive, etc.

The BIOS begins boot processing after the option ROM scan is complete and all discovered
ROM components with appropriate checksums have been called. Loaded applications may
relaunch the system post-boot, but they must deactivate interruptions and other non-concurrent
hardware activities that might conflict with the BIOS restarting process. Otherwise, the
machine may freeze or crash during the reboot process.

The BIOS uses the boot devices specified in the non-volatile BIOS storage (or the CMOS). It
examines each device for bootability by trying to retrieve the first sector or boot sector. The
BIOS advances to the subsequent device if it cannot recognize the sectors. Before accepting a
boot sector and deeming the device bootable, certain BIOSes test again for boot sector signature
0x55 0xAA in the final two bytes of the sectors (512 bytes long) if the sector is successfully
read.

When the BIOS detects a bootable device, it passes a command to the loaded sectors. The BIOS
does not analyze the details of the boot sectors apart from potentially examining the final two
bytes for the boot sector’s signature. The boot software interprets data structures such as BIOS
Parameter Blocks and partition tables in the boot sectors or by other programs loaded during
the boot procedure.

The BIOS’s functionality may be divided into four tasks:

 Installation of complementary metal-oxide semiconductors (CMOS): This
setup application allows users to modify hardware and system settings. CMOS
refers to the nonvolatile memory of the BIOS.
 Bootstrap loader: This function of the bootstrap loader locates the OS.
 Software/drivers: This function identifies the device drivers and software that
interact with the operating system once it is running.
 Power-on self-test (POST): It checks the computer’s hardware before loading
the operating system.

There are three main ways to safeguard your BIOS: passwords, trusted platform
modules (TPM), and complete disc encrypting:
 Passwords: The BIOS is launched before the OS, requiring the user to provide a
passcode before the OS and allowing most other hardware to start. The user must
then provide a second login to access a computer’s functionality. Using two sets
of passwords offers additional protection against password-cracking software
that circumvents conventional cyber security measures.
  Encrypting: Full-disk encryption transforms information on a storage device
into a structure only authorized individuals or systems can decipher. All material
on the system’s hard drive is converted from plaintext to cipher text, safeguarding
the whole disc area and all documents on the disk.
 TPM: This sort of technology delivers security-related hardware-based
capabilities. The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip is a safe crypto-processor
that performs cryptographic operations. Multiple physical security protocols
protect the chip against interference and unauthorized software (malware).

Types of BIOS: The main kinds of basic input-output systems (BIOS) include:

1. Legacy (1st generation) BIOS:

Older motherboards use legacy BIOS firmware to switch on the computer. Legacy BIOSes
have additional constraints; even though similar to UEFI, they dictate how the CPU and
components interact. These cannot recognize discs larger than 2.1 terabytes, and their
installation systems have text-only menus.

2. EFI

BIOS was the only firmware program in its category for a long while, but Intel recognized its
shortcomings. Therefore, it started designing the Extensible Framework Interface (EFI). This
produced an open set of standards for producing firmware for hardware devices without
requiring the comprehensive framework rendered architecture-first.

The United EFI Forum maintains the Unified Extensible Framework Interface (UEFI)
standardization, which evolved from the program. This is a group of technology businesses
interested in the development of firmware specifications. The forum comprises Apple, Intel,
Microsoft, and IBM, among others.

It is impossible to contrast BIOS with UEFI directly. Despite having the identical objective,
which is to run the computer and serve as a bridge connecting the OS and the hardware, they
work differently. BIOS is its system, whereas EFI is an adjustable foundation.

3. UEFI

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) may accept discs with a capacity of 2.2 TB or
more by using the Master Boot Record (MBR) method as opposed to the more recent GUID
Partition Table (GPT) technology. Even though Intel PCs are transitioning from traditional
BIOS to UEFI firmware, Apple Mac PCs have never utilized BIOS.

UEFI is the most recent among the two-boot software packages, introduced in 2002. UEFI has
superior scalability, speed, programmability, and security compared to BIOS. UEFI does not
need a separate boot loader application to run the OS. UEFI also features a superior user
interface and higher performance generally.

4. Apple Mac PC’s BIOS equivalent

When Macs migrated to the Intel platform, they implemented Intel’s Extensible Firmware
Interface (eventually, the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface). Intel created this system as
a substitute for the existing BIOS system.

UEFI was a radical departure from the previous BIOS system. It included not just massive boot
disc support but also firmware-integrated drivers and programs, a ubiquitous graphics driver,
NVRAM, plus runtime capabilities that they can use even after the operating system has been
installed.

On the Mac, there is no equivalent to the previous BIOS. UEFI implements several aspects of
the booting process. For instance, users may hit the option key during start up to choose the
UEFI boot disc or command-R to activate system recovery mode. However, there are no
possibilities for modifying hardware characteristics or the boot procedure.

Types of BIOS based on manufacturers

Each motherboard vendor develops a unique BIOS. Because various motherboards have
distinct equipment layouts, the BIOS must be tailored to the specific set of hardware. When
hardware malfunctions occur, the BIOS will send error messages to warn the user about the
malfunctioning hardware. Different companies offering their own PC brands will create and
update their respective BIOS versions.

IBM was the original owner of the BIOS software. However, other businesses, like Phoenix
Technologies, have created their own versions by reverse-engineering IBM’s original. In doing
so, Phoenix made it possible for other companies to manufacture reproductions of an IBM PC
and, more critically, non-IBM systems that are compatible with BIOS. Compaq was one
business that accomplished this.

Numerous manufacturers now make motherboards with BIOS chips. Asus, Foxconn, Hewlett-
Packard (HP), and Ricoh are among the examples. Users may choose to upgrade their BIOS
and chipset drivers — the software that allows the operating system to interact with other
components, like a video card — to the most current versions. Driver upgrades may boost
computer speed or address recently discovered BIOS-level security bugs.

Why BIOS Is Important

The basic input-output system, or BIOS, of a computer, performs several essential tasks:

1. Checks if the system is receiving power

The Power On Self-Test is the first task the BIOS performs when the computer is powered on.
At the time of the POST, the BIOS verifies that the computer’s architecture can complete the
initialization procedure. The system will typically produce a beep if the POST is executed
correctly. However, if the attempt fails, the machine often produces a sequence of beeps. These
beeps’ numbers, frequency, and sequence may be used to determine why the test failed.
2. Helps the computer to locate software and complete the boot process

The BIOS software often lives on the Read-Only Memory (ROM) or flash memory chip
connected to your computer’s motherboard. BIOS is the first program to assume control of the
system whenever turned on; therefore, its position within the chip is crucial. If the BIOS were
not always situated in the same location within the same chip, the device’s microprocessor
would fail to identify it, preventing the boot process from occurring.

3. Protects the system from security threats

Typically, a BIOS security patch is released for a specific cause. A security vulnerability is
discovered, and the update corrects it. Several Lenovo laptops received a BIOS update that
patched several security bugs that an attacker could perhaps exploit to access the storage or run
arbitrary code. The majority of security updates are modest and unlikely to harm your system.
However, boosting your PC’s security is rarely a bad idea.

4. Helps address deep-seated performance issues

On motherboards, bugs and other flaws are often discovered and resolved at the BIOS level.
Indeed, we seldom interact with our BIOS, but it’s unlikely that you’ll notice if you do.
Alternately, BIOS faults may emerge in different ways. If you’ve encountered an inconvenient
condition on your PC that has continued through several updates (despite the fact that you’ve
logged it dozens of times) and still hasn’t been resolved, you may need to check to see if it’s a
BIOS issue and if there’s an update available to address it.

5. Checks and loads a functioning OS onto the PC

The BIOS then tries to install the OS through a software named the bootstrap loader, which is
intended to identify any accessible OS; if a good OS is discovered, it is put into memory.
Additionally, BIOS drivers are installed at this time. These applications are intended to provide
the computer with rudimentary control of hardware devices, including mice, keyboards,
network gear, and storage devices.

6. Gives you the option to password-protect the boot process

Most BIOS software versions allow users to secure booting via passwords, requiring you to
input a passcode before any BIOS action can occur. As the BIOS performs practically all of its
duties during start up, it essentially safeguards the whole machine’s functioning with a
password. However, restoring a forgotten BIOS password may be time-consuming and requires
manipulating some of the most sensitive computer parts.

7. Opens up possibilities to improve IT outcomes at scale

As numerous high-performance hardware devices enabling cloud services, artificial

intelligence (AI), and encryption technologies increase in data centers, the performance of
Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) might become a barrier for total system
components. BIOS tweaks may include PCIe bifurcation settings and equalization adjustments
to regulate emphasis/de-emphasis, enhance signal integrity, and decrease connection failures.
In addition, when PCIe bus sizes rise, one may upgrade the BIOS to match the PCIe bus’s
expanded capacity.

How to access BIOS setup on Windows computers?

The method of accessing BIOS setup on Windows computers may vary depending on the
manufacturer, model, and version of your computer.
However, a common way to enter BIOS setup is to press a specific key or a combination of
keys during the startup process, before the Windows logo appears. The key or keys may differ
depending on your computer, but some of the most common ones are F1, F2, F10, F12, Del, or
Esc.
You may also see a message on the screen that tells you which key to press to enter BIOS setup.
Alternatively, you can access BIOS setup from Windows 10 by going to Settings > Update &
Security > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now > Troubleshoot > Advanced options >
UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart.

How to access BIOS setup on Mac computers

Unlike Windows computers, Mac computers do not have a BIOS, but a similar firmware called
EFI (Extensible Firmware Interface).
To access EFI setup on Mac computers, you need to press and hold the Option key while
turning on or restarting your computer. This will bring up the Startup Manager, which allows
you to choose which device to boot from. You can also access other EFI settings by pressing
and holding other keys during startup, such as C for booting from a CD or DVD, N for booting
from a network server, or D for running diagnostics.

How to access BIOS setup on Linux computers

The method of accessing BIOS setup on Linux computers is similar to that of Windows
computers, as you need to press a specific key or a combination of keys during the startup
process.
However, the key or keys may vary depending on the distribution, the hardware, and the boot
loader of your Linux computer. Some of the most common keys are F2, F10, F12, Del, or Esc,
but you may also need to press other keys, such as Tab, Shift, or Ctrl.
User may also see a message on the screen that tells you which key to press to enter BIOS
setup. Alternatively, you can access BIOS setup from some Linux distributions by using
commands or tools, such as grub-reboot, efibootmgr, or systemd-boot{efibootmgr is a user
space application used to modify the Intel Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) Boot Manager}

What are the main features and functions of BIOS setup

The features and functions of BIOS setup may vary depending on the computer manufacturer,
model, and version. The Main category typically displays basic information about the system,
such as the time and date, the BIOS version, the processor type and speed, and the memory
size and speed.
User can also set a password to protect your BIOS settings from unauthorized changes. The
Boot category allows you to change the boot order and priority of your devices, as well as
enable or disable features such as fast boot, secure boot, or legacy mode.
 The Advanced category provides more control over the configuration and performance of your
hardware components, such as the CPU, the chipset, the memory, the graphics card, the fan,
and the peripherals.
User can also enable or disable features such as virtualization or hyper-threading. The Security
category allows you to set various security options for your computer and manage your trusted
platform module (TPM). Finally, in the Exit category you can save or discard your changes
and exit BIOS setup or load default settings or restore previous settings if needed.

How To Enter BIOS on Asus Motherboards:

 To enter the BIOS, press the power button to turn on your PC.
 Alternatively, if your system is already booted into Windows, you can restart it.
 Next, depending on your motherboard’s manufacturer, you’ll need to press a hotkey
right after booting. Since here we are dealing with an Asus motherboard and If you
know the exact model of your motherboard that’s even better. Typically, F12 or F2
refers to the Asus motherboard BIOS hotkey. So, when the Asus logo appears after
the restart, press F2 or F12 to enter the BIOS.

ASUS Motherboard Best BIOS Settings for Gamers

When it comes to boosting PC performance for gaming, one of the key areas to focus on is
tweaking the BIOS settings. Here are the Asus motherboard’s best BIOS settings that have
been designed to help gamers get the most out of their systems. By carefully fine-tuning these
parameters within reasonable limits, you can effectively raise or lower the performance
ceiling of your PC.
1. Update the BIOS
This is pretty basic but crucial. Ensure that you have the most up-to-date BIOS version
installed on your system for improved performance and stability. Visit the manufacturer’s
website and download the latest BIOS version. Install it using a USB stick during the system
boot process to ensure the best possible compatibility with new hardware and optimize your
system’s functionality.
Load BIOS to Optimized Defaults:
Before making any changes, it is recommended to load the BIOS settings to their optimized
defaults. This ensures a clean slate and establishes a foundation for further performance
enhancements.
2. Enable XMP
If you have XMP-compatible RAM modules in your ASUS motherboard, enabling
XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) in the BIOS will automatically configure your RAM to its
optimal performance settings. Here’s how you do it:
 Enter the BIOS and ensure that it is in Advanced or Classic Mode. These modes
provide access to advanced settings beyond EZ/Easy mode.
 Navigate through the BIOS and look for settings named XMP (eXtreme Memory
Profiles), EOCP (Extended Overclock Profiles), or DOCP (Direct Overclock
Profiles). These settings allow you to enable specific memory profiles.
 Enable the memory profile that corresponds to your RAM’s advertised speed,
configuring it to run at the desired frequency.
  Save your changes and exit the BIOS by pressing the F10 key or following the
specific instructions provided by your motherboard. Note that the key to save and exit
may vary, so refer to the BIOS menu if needed.
Note: Enabling the XMP profile allows the RAM to run at a higher frequency, resulting in a
slight FPS boost and faster load times. Keep an eye on your system’s temperature and adjust
fan speed if necessary. If the previous RAM speed persists, it could be due to the CPU’s
limitations, causing the RAM to run at its maximum supported speed.
3. Fan Control
Gaming puts a heavy load on your system, increasing temperature and potentially impacting
performance. To prevent overheating, the motherboard’s sensors monitor temperature and the
BIOS adjusts the fan RPM accordingly. However, default fan settings may not be sufficient,
so you can adjust the internal fan RPM can help maintain a cooler system temperature during
gaming. Here’s how you do it:
 Search for settings named Cooling, Hardware Monitor, Smart Fan Mode, Fan Info, or
Fan Control on your ASUS motherboard.
 Access the Smart Fan 5 or similar feature in the BIOS settings for newer
motherboards.
 Modify the temperature/RPM graph to adjust fan rotation speed based on temperature.
 Increase or decrease the fan speed based on the current CPU and overall temperature.
 Keep an eye on the system temperature to ensure it doesn’t reach extremely high
levels.
 Once you’ve set the desired fan RPM, save the changes and exit the BIOS.

4. Overclocking
If you are familiar with overclocking and have appropriate cooling solutions, ASUS
motherboards offer comprehensive options in the BIOS to enhance CPU and RAM
performance. However, overclocking should be approached with caution, as it can void
warranties and potentially damage components if not done correctly. Here are the steps:
 Run Benchmark Test: Perform a benchmark test and note the score as a baseline.
 Enter BIOS: Reboot the system and press the BIOS key during startup to enter the
BIOS interface.
 Locate CPU Overclocking Settings: Search for CPU overclocking settings in the
BIOS. The location may vary depending on your motherboard.
 Adjust CPU Multiplier: Find the CPU multiplier setting, which determines the clock
speed. Increase or decrease the CPU ratio by a single digit to adjust the clock speed.
 Save and Exit BIOS: After making changes, save the settings and exit the BIOS.
 Run Benchmark Test: Boot into the operating system and re-run the benchmark test.
Monitor the system temperature during the test.
 Fine-tune CPU Multiplier: If the CPU performs better than before, increase the CPU
multiplier and run the benchmark test again. Repeat this process until you achieve the
desired performance.
 Revert Multiplier on Instability: If the system crashes or encounters a Blue Screen of
Death (BSOD), enter the BIOS and revert the CPU multiplier to the previous value.
 Adjust CPU Core Voltage: Slowly increase the CPU core voltage, but be cautious as
excessive voltage can damage the CPU. Monitor the temperature during benchmark
tests.
  Adjust CPU Fan Speed: If the CPU temperature becomes excessively high, adjust the
CPU fan speed in the BIOS accordingly.
 Test and Save: Continuously benchmark the system, ensuring stability and
temperature are within acceptable limits. Once you achieve a significant performance
boost without instability, save the BIOS settings and exit.
Disable Virtualizations: Hyper V
What should I disable in BIOS for gaming? Well, there are few things you can disable, let’s
start with this. To optimize gaming performance, consider disabling virtualizations in the
BIOS such as Intel VT-x or AMD-V as they are primarily intended for advanced workstation
tasks and can have a negative impact on gaming performance.
 What is Hyper-V?
Hyper-V is a virtualization technology developed by Microsoft. It enables the creation and
management of multiple virtual machines (VMs) on a single physical server. Each VM can
run its own operating system and operates independently from other VMs. Hyper-V is
integrated into the Windows operating system and can also be installed on Windows Servers.
Hyper-V is a virtualization technology included in some versions of Windows. It is not
necessary for gaming purposes and can be disabled in the BIOS. Disabling Hyper-V helps to
avoid any potential conflicts or unnecessary resource allocation.

5. Disable Hyper-Threading
Hyper-threading is a technology that makes a single physical CPU core appear as two logical
cores to the operating system. Each logical core has its own set of resources, allowing the
operating system to schedule two threads on the same physical core. This can potentially
increase system throughput. It’s important to note that hyper-threading is different from
multi-core, where each core is a separate physical processor. Hyper-threading complements
multi-core by enabling more efficient utilization of available resources.
While Hyper-Threading can provide benefits in certain scenarios, it is not always well-
utilized in games that are optimized for fewer CPU threads. Disabling Hyper-Threading can
lower temperatures, reduce the risk of throttling, and potentially improve gaming
performance, especially if your CPU has six or more cores.
6. Disable CSM
The Compatibility Support Module (CSM) is a part of the BIOS firmware found in certain
computers that enables the computer to boot using the older legacy BIOS boot process
instead of the newer UEFI boot process. If your operating system is older and doesn’t support
UEFI, it’s recommended to use the CSM BIOS mode. However, if you have a newer OS and
hardware, you can disable CSM. It’s worth noting that there are cases where hardware
doesn’t support CSM. Additionally, enabling CSM may hide certain settings like Secure Boot
in your motherboard. If you have the latest components, it’s best to disable CSM. Here’s how
you do it:
 Enter your motherboard’s BIOS by pressing the designated key during startup
(usually displayed on the screen).
 Navigate through the BIOS menu and look for settings related to boot options. These
settings may be labeled as Boot Options, Boot Mode, or Boot Configurations.
  Depending on your specific BIOS, you can choose either the Boot Mode to UEFI or
Disable CSM.
 Disable Fast Boot
Fast Boot is a feature that postpones certain desktop checks during startup to expedite the
boot process. However, it is recommended to disable this feature for gaming. Allowing the
computer to perform a thorough startup check ensures proper operations and avoids any
potential compatibility issues.
7. Disable Intel Speed Shift Technology
Intel Speed Shift Technology is a power management feature available in Intel Core
processors from the 6th generation (Skylake) onwards. It enables the processor to quickly and
efficiently adjust its, voltage, and clock speed in response to workload changes. Unlike
traditional power management methods, which rely on the operating system, Speed Shift
allows the processor to make these adjustments independently, resulting in faster transitions
between power states and improved system performance.
While this feature helps in energy efficiency, it can introduce frame-timing spikes that may
affect gaming performance. Disable this feature in the BIOS to maintain consistent CPU
frequencies and avoid potential FPS fluctuations.
8. Spread Spectrum
Spread Spectrum is a feature that impacts the clock speed of a system by adjusting the BCLK
(Base Clock) value, thereby affecting the CPU and memory clock speed. On most
motherboards, there are BCLK values such as 99.8, 100.2, 100.5, 100.7, and 100.8. The
impact on performance can be determined using the formula BCLK-100. For example, a
BCLK of 99.5 results in a 0.5% decrease in CPU and memory clock speed, while a BCLK of
101.2 leads to a 1.2% increase in clock speed. You can follow these steps:
 Enter the BIOS of your motherboard.
 Navigate to the settings section named Tweaker, Extreme Tweaker, Spread Spectrum
Control, Advanced, or Clock Generator Configuration.
 Within this section, you will find options to disable spread-spectrum or set the BCLK
to a specific value.
9. Disable CPU C-states
The CPU operates in various C-states based on its operating mode, with C0 being the normal
operating state. Higher C-states indicate deeper power-saving modes, but transitioning back
to C0 mode takes longer as the C-state number increases.
So, set the package C-State Limit to a lower C-state value to avoid latency caused by the
CPU entering and exiting energy-saving states.
If you are overclocking your system, it is advisable to disable C-states. Enabling C-states on
an overclocked system can lead to instability in CPU core voltage (Vcore), resulting in
unexpected system shutdowns or Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors.
To disable C-states:
 Enter your motherboard’s BIOS.
 Navigate to BIOS settings labeled as Advanced CPU, Core CPU Settings,
Performance, or CPU Power Management.
 10. Disable CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E)
C1E (CPU Enhanced Halt) is a power-saving state utilized by processors to reduce power
consumption. When activated, the processor lowers its clock frequency and voltage, working
in tandem with other power management features like Intel SpeedStep or AMD
PowerNow. By dynamically adjusting power consumption based on workload, C1E enables
energy conservation during idle or light load periods while maintaining full performance
when required.
Deactivate this feature to ensure maximum performance during gameplay by preventing the
CPU from entering low-power states that may introduce latency.
11. Set SATA mode
If you have an SSD, ensure that the SATA mode is set to AHCI (Advanced Host Controller
Interface) in the BIOS. This mode provides the best load times and performance for SATA-
based drives.
Moreover, if you are not using secondary ATA controllers, such as additional SATA ports, it
is advisable to disable them in the BIOS. This prevents the need to load unnecessary drivers
and tools that may interfere with system performance.
12. Enable TPM and Secure Boot
By enabling both TPM and Secure Boot, you enhance the security of your system and ensure
compatibility with certain operating systems and games with their own anti-cheat systems.
Enabling TPM:
 Restart your computer and enter the motherboard’s BIOS.
 Switch to Advanced/Classic Mode in the BIOS interface.
 Look for settings named TPM (for Intel CPU) or fTPM (for AMD CPU), and set it to
Enabled.
 Save the changes made in the BIOS and exit.
Enabling Secure Boot:
 Turn on your PC and repeatedly press the BIOS key to enter the BIOS.
 Search for a setting named Secure Boot in sections such as Boot Security, Windows
OS Configuration, BIOS, or System Configuration.
 Set Secure Boot to Enabled.
 Save the changes made in the BIOS and exit.
 Use a Dedicated Graphics Card
If you are using a dedicated graphics card for gaming, it is recommended to disable the
onboard graphics in the BIOS. This ensures that all graphical processing power is dedicated
to your dedicated graphics card, maximizing performance and avoiding any potential
conflicts between the two.
13. Disable ASPM and ALPM
ASPM (Active State Power Management) and ALPM (Aggressive Link Power Management)
are power management features in PCIe. ASPM dynamically manages power for idle links,
while ALPM enables deeper power-saving states for storage devices like SSDs. They reduce
power consumption, extend battery life, and lowering energy costs. However, to give a full
performance to your games it’s important to disable all the power management features, so
it’s recommended to turn off ASPM/ALPM power management settings.
 14. Disable Onboard Audio
Avoid unnecessary devices that require additional drivers, as they can burden the system. If
using a wireless headset or dedicated DAC, it’s advisable to skip onboard audio.
15. Disable RGB Functionality
RGB functionality and similar technologies can introduce input lag, frame timing issues, and
other problems.
16. Wrapping Up
Remember, every computer configuration is unique, and the impact of BIOS settings can
vary. It is advisable to monitor your system’s performance and stability after making any
changes and revert to default settings if you encounter any issues. By optimizing your ASUS
motherboard best BIOS settings for gaming, you can unlock the full potential of your
hardware, resulting in smoother gameplay, reduced input lag, and an overall enhanced
gaming experience.