Is update to microcode 0x12F necessary when not experiencing issues ?

[Zak-ch]

Hi, 

The latest microcode update information is a little confusing .

- Is updating the bios with 0x12F mandatory or optional? For users not experiencing any issues, or using their computer in a regular daily usage (not continuous usage), is it still necessary to update? 

- Intel mentioned that "This instability arises when systems run continuously for extended periods under low-activity or lightly-threaded workloads" > Does this mean it's specific for limited use cases or applicable to general usage (when the pc is idling for exemple)? 

- Also, here is a screenshot of my MSI motherboard support page, where two new updates are suggested (0x12F in beta and 0x12C) which one is supposed to be picked? 

Please, help users better understand what they are supposed to do. And also explain if the Vmim issue is over or not, if users can still experiment CPU malfunction due to that. 

Thank you

[JedG_Intel · Accepted solution]

Hello Zak-ch,

Thank you for posting on Intel Community Forum.

Regarding the necessity of a BIOS update for users not currently experiencing any issues:

Intel strongly recommends that all customers update their BIOS to the latest version that includes microcode update 0x12F or later, particularly for systems based on 13th and 14th generation Intel® desktop processors.

This recommendation applies broadly, including to systems that are operating normally, as the update enhances system stability, security, and performance. It is especially important for systems that are continuously running for extended periods, even under general usage conditions.

Regarding the appropriate BIOS version to use, it is highly recommended that you consult your motherboard manufacturer to confirm which BIOS version is officially approved and compatible with your specific system.

Intel has observed that, on certain tested systems, microcode update 0x12B did not fully mitigate the Vmin Shift issue, which can occur on systems that run continuously for extended periods under low-activity, lightly-threaded workloads. As a result, microcode update 0x12F was released to address these concerns more effectively.

For optimal system stability and performance, we advise using the BIOS version that includes microcode update 0x12F or later, as validated by your motherboard vendor.

You can check this link for more information:

https://community.intel.com/t5/Mobile-and-Desktop-Processors/Intel-Core-13th-and-14th-Gen-Vmin-Shift-Instabilty-Update-New/m-p/1686948

If you have other questions or concerns, please let me know.

Best regards,

Jed G.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[Zak-ch]

Thank you Jed G. for your feedback. I will wait for the stable release from MSI before updating. 

Best regards, 

[JedG_Intel]

Hello Zak-ch,

I'm glad I was able to assist you with your questions. Waiting for the stable BIOS release from MSI before proceeding is a wise decision.

As your concerns have been addressed, I will now go ahead and close this inquiry. Should you need further assistance in the future, please don't hesitate to submit a new request, as this thread will no longer be monitored.

Best regards

Jed G.

Intel Customer Support Technician