Accessing the BIOS on Windows 10 and 11 PCs
For those looking to enhance their computer’s performance or resolve system issues, understanding how to access the BIOS is a valuable skill. The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) serves as a gateway for various configurations, including boot order adjustments and hardware overclocking. Here, we delve into the methods available for accessing the BIOS on Windows 10 and 11 PCs.
Access BIOS via Settings App or Command Prompt
The most straightforward approach to access the BIOS is through the advanced startup options within Windows, particularly if your PC is already operational. Follow these steps:
- Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
- Navigate to System > Recovery. For Windows 10 users, go to Update & Security > Recovery.
- Click the Restart now button adjacent to the “Advanced startup” option.
- Once your PC reboots, select Troubleshoot from the new menu.
- Choose Advanced options and then select UEFI Firmware Settings.
- Finally, click the Restart button to enter the BIOS menu.
Alternatively, you can access the BIOS via the Command Prompt. Here’s how:
- Press Windows + S to open the search menu.
- Type CMD in the search box and select Run as administrator.
- Enter the command: shutdown /r /fw and hit Enter.
A message will indicate that Windows will shut down shortly, after which your PC should boot directly into the BIOS.
Access BIOS Using a Hotkey During Startup
Another method to access the BIOS is by pressing a specific key during the boot-up process. This requires timing your keystroke right as the manufacturer’s logo appears. The key varies by brand, and here are some common ones:
- Acer/ASUS: F2 or Delete
- Dell: F2 or F12
- HP: Esc or F10
- Lenovo: F2 or Fn + F2
- MSI: Delete
- Samsung/Toshiba/Sony: F2
- Surface: Hold the Volume Up button and press and release the Power button
To proceed, restart or power on your computer. As soon as the manufacturer’s logo appears, repeatedly press the designated BIOS key until you enter the BIOS menu. The window for pressing this key is brief, so prompt action is essential. If you miss it, simply restart and try again.
What to Do If You Can’t Access the BIOS
While accessing the BIOS is typically a straightforward process, there may be instances where your computer fails to enter it. If this occurs, start by disconnecting any peripherals such as external hard drives or USB devices, as these can sometimes disrupt the boot process. Additionally, consider disabling the Fast Startup feature in Windows, which, while designed to expedite boot times, can occasionally hinder BIOS access.
If you still cannot access the BIOS, resetting the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) battery may be necessary. This small battery on the motherboard retains BIOS settings, and resetting it can clear configurations that prevent access. To reset the CMOS:
- Power off your computer and unplug it from the power source.
- Open the computer case and locate the CMOS battery.
- Remove the battery, wait for a minute, and then reinsert it.
After reseating the CMOS battery, you should find that accessing the BIOS is no longer an issue.
