BIOS downgrade

[ewanni]

Hello!

I encountered BSOD crashes on Windows and complete freezes on Linux (all distros) after updating the BIOS.
The official website says that I cannot downgrade the BIOS version after installing a newer one (and the BIOS update was forced).
I tried to reflash it using AFUWIN from WinPE, but the chip is apparently protected.

Are there any suggestions other than reflashing via a hardware programmer?

The device warranty has expired, and I can't take it to a service center (at least, I don’t trust them).

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @ewanni 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Since your Victus by HP 16-e1000 is experiencing BSOD crashes on Windows and freezes on Linux after a forced BIOS update, and HP prevents BIOS downgrades, here are some alternative solutions:

 

1. Reset BIOS to Default Settings

• Restart your laptop and press F10 to enter BIOS Setup.
• Navigate to Exit > Load Setup Defaults.
• Save changes and restart.

2. Reinstall Chipset & Graphics Drivers

• Since BIOS updates can affect hardware communication, reinstalling drivers may help:
  • Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager).
  • Expand Chipset and Display Adapters.
  • Right-click each driver and select Update Driver.

3. Disable Fast Startup

• Open Control Panel > Power Options.
• Click Choose what the power buttons do.
• Uncheck Turn on fast startup and restart.

4. Flash BIOS Using HP’s Official Tool

• HP may provide a BIOS recovery tool—check HP’s support page for your model.

If none of these work, reflashing via a hardware programmer might be the only option. 

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye