Broken BIOS after update

[minjim]

Hi, I do own a HP Victus s00025nt laptop and it was working fine until recently. I applied an BIOS update named F.31 Rev.A 

via HP's website. After applying the update, I am having trouble to reach anything BIOS related on my system. It is freezing on the black screen, with the text "F10... BIOS Setup Options" stuck at the bottom left of the screen. The only way to reach to BIOS (or anything BIOS related) is to reset BIOS with Windows + G, or sometimes resetting the CMOS battery with Windows + V. Even then, after I restart, the issue persists. I tried to install the BIOS again, from the exe file and with a flash drive, but it is impossible to fix this issue. I saw a few people having the same problem and wondering what can I do to fix this issue. I am not very tech savvy so I will be glad if you would like to help me. Thank you !

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @minjim 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I hear your concern clearly, and I’m sorry you’re facing this frustrating situation after the BIOS update. You’ve already tried some thoughtful steps like reinstalling the BIOS and resetting the CMOS battery, which shows great initiative. 

Let’s go through a structured set of actions that can help stabilize the system and restore reliable BIOS access.

 

Perform a Hard Reset

• Power off the laptop completely.
• Disconnect the AC adapter and remove any external devices (USB drives, peripherals).
• Hold down the power button for about 15 seconds to discharge residual power.
• Reconnect the adapter and try powering on again.

Use the BIOS Recovery Feature

• With the laptop powered off, press and hold Windows + B keys.
• While holding them, press and hold the Power button for 2–3 seconds, then release the power button but keep holding Windows + B.
• This should trigger the BIOS recovery screen. Follow the on‑screen instructions to attempt recovery.

Clear CMOS Settings

• Since you’ve already tried removing the CMOS battery, ensure that after reseating it, you leave it disconnected for at least 5 minutes before reinstalling.
• This ensures the BIOS settings are fully cleared.

Re‑flash BIOS via USB

• Prepare a USB drive formatted to FAT32.
• Download the BIOS file for your exact model and place it on the USB.
• Insert the USB into the laptop.
• Use the Windows + V or Windows + B recovery key combinations to trigger the BIOS update from USB.

Reset to Default BIOS Settings

• If you manage to enter BIOS, immediately load default settings:
  • Press F9 (Load Setup Defaults).
  • Save and exit with F10.
• This can clear any corrupted configuration that may be causing the freeze.

Check Boot Order and Secure Boot

• Once inside BIOS, verify that the boot order is correct (your primary drive should be first).
• Ensure Secure Boot is enabled unless you have a specific reason to disable it.

Note

• Copying the BIOS file to USB must be done carefully—make sure it matches your exact model and version.
• Always keep the laptop connected to power during BIOS recovery or flashing.
• If the system continues to freeze at the “F10… BIOS Setup Options” screen even after recovery attempts, it indicates the BIOS image may be corrupted and requires a clean re‑flash.

You’ve already shown persistence in trying multiple approaches. Following these steps methodically gives the best chance of restoring stability. 

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[minjim]

Hi, it is a bit late but thank you for your great help! I did try all of the steps you provided when I had time recently. Unfortunately it still reverted to the same problem. Then, I discovered that some connected USB devices, in this case my wireless mouse, was causing the issue. I was able to access the BIOS and boot menu when I removed the USB mouse from the USB port. It's a rather strange problem and a rather strange solution, but at least it works. I'm so grateful for your help, I hope these informations will be useful to everyone experiencing this problem. Best regards! 

[ilmedritscher]

This worked for me fine as well.

I disconnected the wireless mouse and i was able to get into the bios.