Thinkpads Forum

I don't really need it, however, updates add support for some modern devices (like wifi cards). Unfortunately, the log doesn't say which devices exactly. Anyway I have an old router, I'll continue using it for a while longer, same with my wifi card, but in the long run I might get 802.11ac router and wifi card someday (when their prices are fine), as my uni net is lighting fast. Right now I just have a 802.11g router and 802.11n card.

Therefore I think the update could be useful in the long run. This is why I am thinking about updating the bios now...
+ as they might do something dumb someday in the newer bios updates and the old version will not be online
+ I won't forget about it and wonder why my new hardware doesn't work
- some people bricked their T430 when applying BIOS
- I don't really need it right now and it's all a very hypothetical situation anyway, so I might never need it

Have any of you updated BIOS in their T430? How did it go? If I decide to do it, is there anything I should know beforehand? I'd update it, but I am scared I would brick my hardware...

Some folks believe that you don't fix something that is not broken. So if it's working now then better to leave it alone. Especially if you are not to sure about it.

Having said that, I update everything on all my machines and devices from laptops, desktops, smartphones, cameras, etc. Whatever I can get a hold of I'll update it. In rare circumstances, the new BIOS/firmware is known to be worse than the old BIOS/firmware, then and only then will I not do an update.

Updating BIOS and firmware have become common place, easy and relatively safe over the past decades. There was a time when this was not so. Obviously some common sense is need here otherwise the consequences can be expensive. First start by reading the instructions. Second make sure you have a working and charged battery and the power adapter is plugged in. Then when it's updating DO NOT turn off the power and do everything you can to prevent an unexpected and complete power loss. Only restart/turn power off when told to do so.

With some precautions and after reading the instructions there's nothing to be afraid of.

Thanks for the answer. One more question: Although it is a bootable CD, the readme.txt states:

Operating Systems Microsoft Windows 8.1 32-bit, 64-bit
Microsoft Windows 8 32-bit, 64-bit
Microsoft Windows 7 32-bit, 64-bit
Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP3

I don't understand why a bootable system would require another one. Did they just write it to confuse people or are these really required? I don't have any Windows, as I use Linux.

EDIT:
Nevermind, it also says on the site that:

The BIOS Update CD can boot the computer disregarding the operating systems and update the UEFI BIOS (including system program and Embedded Controller program) stored in the ThinkPad computer to fix problems, add new functions, or expand functions as noted below.

EDIT2:
Updated the BIOS, works fine. Thanks!