Can this be done from an operating system (XP)?
Or do you have to go into the BIOS, then see if one is available on the net?

 

ASUS boards certainly allow the BIOS to be flashed from within the OS - I have done so without issues before.

 

It is an ASUS.
How would I go about it, or at least check if it needs an update?

 

visit the asus website and look for bios updates/downloads for the model of your motherboard. Some motherboard manufacturers also include software that you can download which will take care of the bios update for you

 

What are the problems first of.

A flash can sometimes = nightmare.

Specs + problem = resolve, normally

 

If you still have the motherboard CD then look for a program called "Asus Update" on it. Usually it's under a tap called "Utilities".


M

 

BIOS updates can be an **** but I find my ASUS mobo updates with ease with the updater tool.

 

Never, ever update your MoBo BIOS unless you have a very good reason for doing so. I.e. something doesn't work.

If you are simply checking if it needs an update, then I would say you don;t need it.

 

Well it was mostly for a check, but I do get random crashes now and then that are very annoying.

 

I would try and eliminate every other possibility first.

The ratio of "people that downloaded a BIOS update" to "****ed thier MoBo" is horrifically high.

Not saying you aren't capable, even the most professional of IT people would rather sell his Mother into slavery than have to update MoBo BIOS.

 

Ok sounds pretty conclusive.
cheers