New ASUS X99-A - should I update the bios and/or install the ASUS apps?

[kukov]

I just picked up a brand new X99-A and a new i7-5820K, did a fresh install of Win 7. So far everything seems good.

However, I'd like to OC the system with the ASUS AI utility for it, and I'd like to install the rest of the ASUS stock monitoring apps. But I believe that comes with a program that will update the BIOS.

So my question - is it worth installing all of these apps? Is it worth updating the bios? Or should I only install the apps but NOT update the bios since I don't seem to have any bios problems at the moment? Would love to hear your advice - thanks!

 

[spooky2th]

I update the bios before I install windows then set it up depending on the system. Then I install windows, then the drivers and etc. It is more than likely best to have the latest & greatest bios. Bios updates usually improve on several things besides what is stated. And get the latest drivers & utilities too at the asus web site. Install the utilities after your comp is up and running right.

 

[kukov]

Thanks for the advice!

The reason I ask is that I found a post here on TH where a user with the same motherboard updated the BIOS and it was giving him problems:

http://www.tomshardware.com/answers/id-2622030/random-freezes-x99-bios-update.html

 

[spooky2th]

Thanks for the advice!

The reason I ask is that I found a post here on TH where a user with the same motherboard updated the BIOS and it was giving him problems:

http://www.tomshardware.com/answers/id-2622030/random-freezes-x99-bios-update.html

He probably didn't set up the BIOS after the update. Even after just resetting the bios, you need to set it all up again.

 

[kukov]

He probably didn't set up the BIOS after the update. Even after just resetting the bios, you need to set it all up again.

Thanks for the advice! I think I'll wait another few days, see if anyone with this specific motherboard / BIOS sees this and weighs in. If I don't read any warnings I'll go ahead and do it. Thanks!

 

[kukov]

Also, one other question - is there anything major I'm missing out on with this new system by NOT upgrading to Win 8 and staying with Win 7? I'm thinking I might upgrade to Win 10 when it comes out (and if it gets good reviews) but in the meantime is it fine to stick with Win 7?

 

[spooky2th]

Win7 is a better OS IMO. Most are not happy with 8. Win8 had and still has even less people buying it than Vista. I tried the beta Win10 for a while and think that I will be sticking with Win7. Win10 is interesting but I'm not buying. maybe the final product will be better. It was better than win8 at least.