HP Victus BIOS update crashing the laptop randomly

[DreamTecx]

Hi. I have a problem that my laptop - after a BIOS update(F26) - keeps crashing or closing apps and windows explorer windows. And sometimes just restarts the entire laptop.  At first it did a blue screen with a error message now it doesn't even anymore just crashes or restarts. All this started happening after the BIOS update(F26). I see on the support page on this model of mine it states the latest supported or recommended BIOS version to be F25. So how it upgraded to the F26 version I have no idea... How can I fix this problem? My warranty is expired and don't want to pay alot to fix it. I do have some great extend to PC knowledge. 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @DreamTecx,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

I understand how distressing it is when a BIOS update meant to improve your system actually causes instability. Here's a clear, reliable path to resolve the crashes and crashes following BIOS F.26.

Step-by-Step Recovery Plan

1. Check BIOS Recommendation

HP’s support page confirms that the latest stable BIOS for your Victus model is F.25, not F.26.

2. Confirm Current BIOS Version

• Restart your laptop and press Esc → F1 quickly.
• In BIOS, verify the installed version (e.g., F.26).

3. Downgrade BIOS to F.25

Method A: Use HP Windows BIOS Update Utility

1. Visit HP Support and select your Victus model.
2. Download the F.25 BIOS installer.
3. Run the .exe file in Windows; this method supports safe downgrade.
4. Follow on-screen directions, ensuring your laptop remains powered.

Note: Users have successfully reverted BIOS on Victus using this official tool.
 

Method B: Use BIOS Recovery Mode

1. Download the F.25 BIOS version from HP.
2. Copy the file to a FAT32-formatted USB drive.
3. With the laptop off, press and hold Windows + B, then press the Power button for 2–3 seconds, then release only the Power button.
4. Continue holding Windows + B until the recovery/rollback screen appears.
5. Follow prompts to install F.25 firmware.

4. After Downgrade

• Reboot and confirm BIOS reads F.25.
• Update all drivers: GPU, chipset, and BIOS, via Official HP® Support.
• Check stability by opening multiple apps, Explorer windows, or running stress tests.

5. Optional: Disable Fast Startup

BIOS changes can clash with Windows Fast Startup. After BIOS rollback:

1. Open Control Panel → Power Options.
2. Select: Choose what the power buttons do.
3. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
4. Uncheck "Turn on fast startup", then save changes.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat