Scroll down the list of available drivers until you see a category labeled Firmware .
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes. HP, Pavilion, EliteBook, and ProBook are trademarks of HP Inc. Always refer to your device’s official documentation before performing BIOS updates.
To ensure your system remains secure, always download firmware directly from verified sources: HP Official Support : The safest method is to visit the HP Software and Driver Downloads page. Enter your specific laptop model (e.g., " EliteBook 840 G5 ") to find the latest BIOS-System Firmware Windows Update : Many G5 users receive the HP Q78 Version 01.28.00 update automatically through Windows Update. Microsoft Update Catalog
If the Q78 firmware is available for your specific machine, it will appear in the list. Check the box and allow the app to download and install it automatically. Step-by-Step Installation Guide hp q78 system firmware driver download
Follow the on-screen prompts of the HP BIOS Update Utility wizard.
Unlike standard graphics or audio drivers, firmware updates modify the actual code stored on the motherboard's flash memory chip. Updating the Q78 firmware is necessary to resolve several critical performance issues:
Finding firmware by motherboard code (Q78) alone is difficult because HP uses that board across many different laptop chassis models (e.g., HP 15s, HP 17g, Pavilion). By following the steps above to find your Product Number , you ensure you are downloading the exact firmware designed for your specific laptop configuration, preventing hardware incompatibility issues. Scroll down the list of available drivers until
If the firmware update fails due to "lack of resources" or other errors, try these steps:
If using a desktop, ensure it is plugged into a stable wall outlet (ideally backed by an Uninterruptible Power Supply or UPS). Never turn off the PC during the update.
: Once installed, this specific version may prevent the BIOS from being updated or downgraded by software means, effectively locking the firmware state. Microsoft Update Catalog If the Q78 firmware is
If using a laptop, plug it into a wall outlet and ensure the battery is charged to at least 50%. For desktops or servers, using an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is highly recommended.
Updating security patches to protect against firmware-level attacks.
The HP Q78 system firmware is a critical low-level software component that manages hardware initialization and communication between the operating system and the motherboard components. Keeping this firmware updated ensures system stability, patches security vulnerabilities, and maintains compatibility with modern operating systems.
Method 3: Via Traditional USB Connection (Pre-X-Generation Systems)
: The hardware ID typically associated with this firmware is UEFI\RES_854BEF26-B844-4F03-8E09-B64B4B1EE21E . Troubleshooting Update Failures