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. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Update motherboard BIOS to latest version
  1. Update motherboard BIOS to latest version
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

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02Verify CPU is on motherboard's supported CPU list
  1. Verify CPU is on motherboard's supported CPU list
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
03Contact motherboard manufacturer
  1. Contact motherboard manufacturer
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors

Possible causes

  • Outdated BIOS without microcode support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

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review changes before applying them.

msinfo32