Updating the BIOS on the ASUS TUF Gaming Z590-PLUS WiFi: 3 Proven Methods + Safety Tips

Motherboard ASUS TUF Gaming Z590-PLUS WiFi — a popular solution for gaming and performance builds based on processors Intel 10th and 11th generationA BIOS update for this model may be required to support new processors (e.g. Rocket Lake-S), fixing RAM compatibility issues or adding features like Resizable BARHowever, an incorrect update can be dangerous. complete failure of the board - without the possibility of recovery using standard methods.

In this guide, we will look at three official methods of updating the BIOS: via the built-in interface EZ Flash 3, utility AI Suite 3 in Windows and a manual method using a USB drive. We'll pay special attention to details often overlooked in standard instructions—from selecting the correct firmware version to what to do if the process fails. If you've never updated your BIOS before, start with the "Preparation" section: it covers critical steps that will help you avoid 90% of common errors.

1. Preparing for the update: 5 essential steps

Before flashing the firmware, make sure all prerequisites are met. Neglecting them is the main cause of bricked boards. ASUS TUF.

  • 🔋 Charging/Power Source: If you're updating via a laptop, connect it to the power supply. For a PC, make sure the power supply is providing a stable voltage (at least 500W for assemblies with a discrete graphics card).
  • 🖥️ Minimum configuration: Disconnect all peripherals except the keyboard and mouse. Leave only one RAM module (in the slot) A2) and the main storage device.
  • 📋 Current BIOS version: Write it down—it will be useful for rollback. You can find out in BIOS → System Information or via the command in Windows: 
    wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion
  • 🔗 Stable internet connection: If you download the firmware via AI Suite 3 or EZ Flash 3 (when updating over the network).
  • ⚡ Emergency plan: Prepare a second flash drive with BIOS Renamer (ASUS recovery utility) and instructions for BIOS Flashback (if your model supports it).

Important: ASUS TUF Gaming Z590-PLUS WiFi has two firmware modifications - for processors 10th (ME Update not required) and 11th (ME Update (required) generations. Download the version that matches your CPU! You can check compatibility at official ASUS website in the "CPU Support List" section.

Download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website|Check your motherboard model (either on the box or via CPU-Z)|Disable overclocking (if applicable)|Back up important data|Prepare a USB drive (FAT32, up to 32 GB)-->

2. Method 1: Update via EZ Flash 3 (recommended method)

EZ Flash 3 — a built-in BIOS utility that allows you to update the firmware without loading the OS. This is the most reliable method, as it eliminates interference from Windows drivers and background processes.

Instructions:

  1. Download the latest BIOS version from support pages. The file will be in the archive (for example, TUF-GAMING-Z590-PLUS-WIFI-ASUS-1403.ZIP).
  2. Unzip the archive and rename the firmware file to Z590PW.CAP (important for automatic recognition).
  3. Copy it to empty flash drive formatted in FAT32 (Not exFAT or NTFS!).
  4. Restart your PC and enter BIOS by pressing Del or F2 at startup.
  5. In BIOS, go to Advanced Mode (F7) → Tool → EZ Flash 3.
  6. Select your USB drive and file Z590PW.CAP. Confirm to start the update.

The process will take 2-5 minutes. Do not turn off the power and don't press any buttons until the system reboots automatically! After the update, go into the BIOS and reset the settings to default (F5 → Save & Exit).

3. Method 2: Update via AI Suite 3 in Windows

Utility AI Suite 3 allows you to update the BIOS directly from Windows, but this method is less reliable due to possible OS crashes. Use it only if you can't access the BIOS or need help. additional functions (for example, saving profiles).

Step-by-step instructions:

  1. Install AI Suite 3 With official website (section "Utilities").
  2. Run the utility and go to the section EZ Update.
  3. Click Check Update — the program will automatically find the current BIOS version.
  4. Download the firmware and follow the update wizard instructions.
  5. Once complete, your PC will reboot. Do not interrupt the process!
⚠️ Attention: When updating via Windows, disable your antivirus (for example, Kaspersky or Bitdefender), as it may block access to system files. Also, close all background programs, especially those that access your hardware (MSI Afterburner, HWMonitor, etc.).

If AI Suite 3 gives an error "BIOS image check fail", you most likely downloaded firmware for a different board revision. Check the model number on the sticker near the PCIe slot: TUF GAMING Z590-PLUS WIFI (without prefixes like Rev X.01) or TUF GAMING Z590-PLUS WIFI (WI-FI) - these are different modifications!

4. Method 3: Manual update via USB (for advanced users)

This method is useful if the first two didn't work or you need to roll back to a previous version. It involves using a utility AFUDEOS or AFUWIN in DOS mode.

Instructions:

  1. Download the archive with the BIOS and utility AFUDEOS (available on the ASUS website in the "BIOS-Utilities" section).
  2. Create a bootable USB flash drive with FreeDOS (for example, through Rufus).
  3. Copy the files to the flash drive:
    • AFUDEOS.EXE (firmware utility),
    • Z590PW.CAP (firmware, renamed),
    • AmiFldrv64.sys (driver for working with flash memory).
  • Boot from the flash drive in DOS mode and run the command: 
    AFUDEOS Z590PW.CAP /P /B /N /K /R

    Where:

    • /P — to program,
    • /B - backup,
    • /N - do not save the old version,
    • /K — check the checksum,
    • /R - reboot after completion.
      • ⚠️ Attention: If an error appears after the command "Error: Flash part information mismatch", then you're trying to flash a BIOS from a different board revision. Stop the process and check for compatibility!

      This method requires experience with DOS and is recommended only in extreme cases. For beginners, it is safer to use EZ Flash 3.

      Via EZ Flash 3 in BIOS|Via AI Suite 3 in Windows|Manual method (DOS/USB)|Never updated-->

      5. Possible errors and their solutions

      Even with the correct steps, a BIOS update may fail. Let's look at common errors and how to fix them.

      Error Cause Solution
      BIOS image check fail Mismatched board model or corrupted firmware file Download the BIOS again, check the board model (on the box or through CPU-Z → Mainboard)
      ME Firmware update failed Update error Intel Management Engine (relevant for 11th generation CPUs) Update ME Firmware separately (file MEUpdateTool.exe in the archive with BIOS)
      Black screen after update BIOS reset or processor incompatibility Turn off your PC, remove the CMOS battery for 10 minutes, then put it back. If that doesn't help, use BIOS Flashback
      Secure Flash error BIOS write protection enabled Enter BIOS, disable Secure Boot And TPM, then repeat the firmware

      If the board stops turning on after an unsuccessful update, try disaster recovery:

      1. Download the latest BIOS version and rename it to Z590PW.CAP.
      2. Place the file on a flash drive (FAT32) and insert it into the port BIOS Flashback (usually marked in white).
      3. Press and hold the button BIOS Flashback (near the port) for 3 seconds. The indicator will start flashing—wait until it's finished (about 5 minutes).
      What to do if BIOS Flashback does not work?

      If the indicator does not flash:

      1. Check that the flash drive is formatted in FAT32 (not FAT or NTFS).

      2. Use a USB flash drive with a capacity of up to 32 GB (8–16 GB is better).

      3. Try a different port (even if it is not marked as Flashback).

      4. Make sure the firmware file is named accurately Z590PW.CAP (case important!).

      If nothing helps, contact a service center - the BIOS chip may be damaged.

      6. How to check if the update was successful

      After rebooting, you need to ensure that the firmware has been updated correctly. To do this:

      1. Enter BIOS (Del or F2 at startup).
      2. Check the version in the section System Information - it must match the one you downloaded.
      3. Boot into Windows and run CPU-Z (tab Mainboard). Field BIOS Version should display the new version.
      4. Make sure all settings are saved (boot priority, XMP profile for RAM, etc.). If necessary, reconfigure them.

      If the BIOS version has not changed, repeat the update procedure. If the PC does not boot, use the method BIOS Flashback (described in the previous section).

      7. Frequently asked questions about updating the BIOS on the ASUS TUF Z590-PLUS WiFi

      Is it possible to update BIOS without a processor?

      No, for ASUS TUF Gaming Z590-PLUS WiFi A compatible CPU is required. However, some ASUS models support BIOS Flashback without a processor (for example, series ROG), but in your case, this is not possible. If the board is new and there is no processor, contact a service center for the first firmware update.

      How to roll back BIOS to a previous version?

      Rollback is possible, but not recommended unless absolutely necessary. To do this:

      1. Download the required BIOS version from the ASUS website.
      2. Use the method EZ Flash 3 or manual firmware via DOS (method 3).
      3. Please note that downgrading may result in loss of support for new processors or features (e.g. Resizable BAR).
    Do I need to update the BIOS if everything is working stably?

    If your system is stable and you don't plan on upgrading (for example, installing an 11th-generation processor), updating the BIOS is not necessary. The exception is if the new firmware fixes critical vulnerabilities (for example, Intel SA-00589). In other cases, follow the principle: "If it ain't broke, don't break it".

    What should I do if Wi-Fi disappears after an update?

    This is a typical problem when resetting BIOS settings. Go to BIOS (Advanced Mode → Advanced → Onboard Devices Configuration) and make sure that the parameter Wi-Fi Controller included (Enabled). If this doesn't help, update your Wi-Fi driver via Armoury Crate or manually from the ASUS website.

    Does Z590-PLUS WiFi support 12th and 13th generation processors?

    No, ASUS TUF Gaming Z590-PLUS WiFi officially supports only 10th and 11th generation Intel Core (Socket LGA1200). For the 12th and 13th generations (LGA1700), a motherboard with the chipset is required. Z690 or Z790Updating the BIOS will not add support for new CPUs!

    8. Conclusion: Is it worth updating BIOS?

    BIOS update on ASUS TUF Gaming Z590-PLUS WiFi justified in three cases:

    • 🔄 Processor upgrade: For example, with Core i5-10600K on Core i9-11900K.
    • 🐞 Bug fixes: If the motherboard does not detect the NVMe drive, resets the settings, or conflicts with the RAM.
    • 🔒 Vulnerability fixes: Critical security errors (for example, in Intel ME).

      • In all other situations, the risks outweigh the benefits. Remember: A failed BIOS update can brick your motherboard, and repairing it will cost 30–50% of its value.If you're unsure about what you're doing, contact a service center—many repair shops will update the BIOS for 500–1000 rubles.

      If you decide to update yourself, follow these instructions and don't skip any preparation steps. Good luck!

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