Processor · medium

How to fixINTEL-MICROCODE-UPDATE-FAIL

Intel CPU microcode update failure

What this error means

INTEL-MICROCODE-UPDATE-FAIL is a medium-severity processor (CPU) problem. The INTEL-MICROCODE-UPDATE-FAIL error occurs when the system BIOS attempts to load a CPU microcode patch and fails. Intel releases microcode updates to fix CPU errata, security vulnerabilities (Spectre, Meltdown, Downfall), and stability bugs. A failed microcode load leaves the processor operating with known silicon bugs active. It sometimes comes down to CPU generation mismatch. The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Update motherboard BIOS to latest version

Update motherboard BIOS to latest version.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Verify CPU is on motherboard's supported CPU list

Verify CPU is on motherboard's supported CPU list.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Contact motherboard manufacturer

Contact motherboard manufacturer.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Outdated BIOS without microcode support
  • Corrupted microcode file
  • CPU generation mismatch

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review any action inside the tool before applying changes.

msinfo32