SSD firmware is the controlling microprogram that manages drive’s controller. The firmware determines the speed of drive to a large extent, manages wear leveling of memory cells, is responsible for consistency of operation, reliability and safety of data. As rule, new versions of firmware fix errors of previous versions, accelerate the speed of operation, increase reliability and consistency as well as facilitate more even distribution of number of records per one Flash memory cell. Timely update of firmware can considerably increase the speed of SSD.Usually, in order to update SSD firmware version, you need to use a special tool that can be found on the website of the manufacturer of your SSD, also you will have to follow a number of steps (like turning AHCI ON and OFF ). Usually manufacturer's website or a tool itself contains step-by-step guide on how to update your SSD firmware.
Generally, during firmware update information on SSD is not touched (but be cautious, there are exceptions). Before updating firmware, we recommend to perform full data backup. In addition, it is not recommended to update firmware if your solid-state drive is used as system disk. In that case it would be better to connect the drive to another computer, update the firmware and after that connect it back. You should not turn off power to the computer or interrupt the update procedure, otherwise you risk damaging your solid-state drive.
