When in doubt, re-flash the BIOS

I seem to have had a few strange issues recently that were apparently caused by an out-of-date BIOS. Just the simple though risky operation of re-flashing the BIOS to the latest version, has fixed the problem.


Problems like updating memory in old systems, where the latest purchased sticks of memory aren't accepted by the motherboard, installing a new CPU (Processor uCode missing), unreliable booting with integrated graphics, etc. have all been fixed by newer BIOS versions. I've always been a bit hesitant to perform BIOS updates as if it goes wrong can be the quickest way to trash a motherboard. So carefully checking the exact make, model and revision of each motherboard is essential. Always get your BIOS update from the motherboard manufacturer's website as the are many 'tweaked' BIOSes out there which could cause problems. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Some like DELL can actually be done from within Windows, some directly using a DOS program from a floppy and others direct from a USB memory stick.

Not upgrading to WHS 2011

I will not be upgrading to the latest Windows Home Server 2011 version. Microsoft's removal of the Drive Extender and folder sharing across drives plus the extra memory resources required means I will just continue to run the original Version 1 with PowerPack 3 on my DELL PowerEdge SC440 with just 1Gb of memory.

It is a pity that Microsoft has given up on the technology and the product. Certainly the software Drive Extender technology could be used elsewhere such as Small Business Server or even Windows itself. WHS would also seem to have a useful future as the centre of your digital home. Without hardware and the enthusiastic support from the community it will probably die.