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How to Enter BIOS
Enter the BIOS setup utility to change BIOS settings
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You'll may need to get into BIOS if you install new hardware or need to enable or disable features built in to your computer.Just restart your computer and look for the "setup," "configuration," or "BIOS" message, which will tell you which key to press.Common keys include Esc, Tab, Del, or one of the function keys, often F2 or F10. How to Enter BIOS
The steps below can be used to access the BIOS setup utility on your PC, no matter what operating system is installed. This is because the BIOS is part of your motherboard hardware and has nothing at all to do with what's on your hard drive. Getting into BIOS isn't at all hard, but it can be tricky on some systems. Check out our extensive list of tips at the bottom of the page if you're struggling after giving it a shot. Derek Abella / Lifewire Restart your computer, or turn it on if it's already off. Watch for an "entering setup" message in the first few seconds after turning on your computer. This message varies greatly from computer to computer and also includes the key or keys you need to press to enter BIOS. Here are some common ways you might see this BIOS access message: Press [key] to enter setupSetup: [key]Enter BIOS by pressing [key]Press [key] to enter BIOS setupPress [key] to access BIOSPress [key] to access system configuration Quickly press the key or keys instructed by the previous message. You may need to press the BIOS access key several times to enter BIOS. Don't hold the key down or press it too many times or your system may error or lock up. If that happens, just restart and try again. If you don't catch the key sequence needed to get into BIOS, reference one of these lists or check out the tips below: BIOS Setup Utility Access Keys for Popular Computer Systems BIOS Setup Utility Access Keys for Popular Motherboards BIOS Setup Utility Access Keys for Major BIOS Manufacturers Use the BIOS setup utility as required. That might mean managing memory settings, configuring a new hard drive, changing the boot order, resetting the BIOS password, or other tasks. Tips & More Information About Entering BIOS
Entering BIOS can be tricky, so here's some more help based on some common scenarios that we've seen: There' s a Picture Instead of a Message
Your computer may be configured to show your computer's logo instead of important BIOS messages. Press Esc or Tab while the logo is showing to remove it. You Didn' t Catch Which Key to Press
Some computers start too quickly to see the BIOS access message. If this happens, press the Pause/Break key on your keyboard to freeze the screen during startup. Press any key to "unpause" your computer and continue booting. Trouble Pausing the Startup Screen
If you're having problems pressing that pause button in time, turn on your computer with your keyboard unplugged. You should receive a keyboard error which will pause the startup process long enough for you to see the keys necessary to enter BIOS! Using a USB Keyboard on an Older Computer
Some PCs with both PS/2 and USB connections are configured to only allow USB input after the POST. This means that if you're using a USB keyboard, it could be impossible to access BIOS. In that case, you'd need to connect an older PS/2 keyboard to your PC to access BIOS. How to Enter BIOS on Windows 10 FAQ How do I reset the BIOS? The easiest way to reset the BIOS is to reset it to factory default. The wording may be different depending on your BIOS manufacturer but should be worded something similar to factory default, reset BIOS, clear BIOS, and more. How do I flash my BIOS? The process to update will vary depending on your motherboard's manufacturer. After you've backed up your data, go to the manufacturer's website and download the installer. Follow the instructions they have provided. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Access BIOS Setup Utility for Major BIOS Manufacturers How to Boot From a USB Device BIOS Keys by Motherboard (Gigabyte, MSI, ASUS, Etc.) What Is BIOS (Basic Input Output System)? BIOS Keys by Computer Maker (Lenovo, Dell, Sony, Etc.) How to Change the Boot Order (Boot Sequence) in BIOS How to Fix It When a Keyboard Won't Type How to Enter BIOS on Windows 10 What Is Boot Sequence? (Boot Sequence/Order Definition) How to Fix Problems that Occur During the POST How to Boot From a CD, DVD, or BD Disc CMOS: What It Is and What It's For How to Enable Secure Boot to Install Windows 11 How to Fix the 'Operating System Not Found' Error How to Enter Windows XP Recovery Console [Easy, 15 Min] How to Fix Missing Hal.dll Errors in Windows XP Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies