How to Access the BIOS/UEFI in Windows 11

Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

BIOSUEFIWindows 11BootSettingsConfigurationSystemAccessSteps

Accessing the BIOS or UEFI firmware settings in your computer is an important task that can enable you to perform various hardware-related configurations. BIOS, which stands for Basic Input/Output System, and UEFI, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, are essentially low-level software that initializes and manages your computer's hardware. With the arrival of Windows 11, accessing BIOS/UEFI has become a bit different due to a change in the design of the operating system. This guide will take you through accessing these settings step-by-step, including different methods depending on different situations. This is a comprehensive guide, which will provide you with all the necessary information to access BIOS/UEFI settings easily.

Understanding BIOS and UEFI

Before moving ahead with the process, it is important to understand what BIOS and UEFI are. In short, both serve the same purpose but their technology and functions are different.

Bios

The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is the firmware that is built into PCs and is the first software they run when they are turned on. The BIOS is typically stored on a chip on the motherboard, making it independent of the operating system. The BIOS was the standard method for boot firmware for many years, providing the operating system with a standardized interface to communicate with the computer's hardware components.

UEFI

Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is a more modern solution that replaces BIOS. Introduced by Intel, UEFI offers more features, including support for larger hard drives, faster boot times, and more security features. UEFI is stored in the same way as BIOS, but it offers a more advanced and graphical interface.

Why access BIOS/UEFI?

Accessing BIOS or UEFI settings is important for several reasons. Here are some common scenarios:

• System configuration: You may need to access the BIOS/UEFI to configure hardware components such as the system's CPU and memory settings.
• Boot Order: If you are installing a new operating system or need to boot from USB or DVD, you will need to change the boot order within these settings.
• Troubleshooting: BIOS/UEFI settings can help troubleshoot hardware problems or diagnose why components are not working correctly.
• Security Setup: UEFI allows you to enable Secure Boot, which helps protect the system from malware attacks.

Accessing BIOS/UEFI in Windows 11

There are multiple methods one can follow to access BIOS/UEFI settings in Windows 11. This section explains these methods in detail.

Method 1: Using the Settings app

This method involves using the Windows 11 built-in Settings app to reboot your system directly into the BIOS/UEFI settings.

Steps to access BIOS/UEFI:

1. Click the Start menu and select Settings.
2. Go to System in the Settings app.
3. Scroll down and select Recovery on the right pane.
4. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
5. Your system will restart and may ask you to confirm the restart; click Restart again if necessary.
6. After the system restarts, you will see several options. Select Troubleshoot.
7. After selecting Troubleshoot, click on Advanced options.
8. Select UEFI Firmware Settings, and then click the Restart button.
9. Your computer will now restart and open the BIOS/UEFI interface.

This method is preferred because it eliminates the need to repeatedly press a specific key during boot, simplifying the process for most users.

Method 2: Using a specific key during boot

Traditional BIOS access usually involves pressing a specific key during the computer's boot-up process. However, this method can still work on many systems, especially if they don't boot very fast.

Steps to access BIOS/UEFI:

1. Shut down your computer completely.
2. Turn it on again, and immediately start pressing the keys designated for BIOS/UEFI entry. These keys vary by manufacturer, but are often F2, F10, Delete, or Esc.
   • For example, for HP laptops, it is usually appropriate to press F10 followed by Esc, while ASUS users can use F2.
3. Continue pressing the key every second until the BIOS/UEFI menu appears.

Keep in mind that this method can vary considerably from one manufacturer to another, and newer systems with fast boot options may bypass this input. Therefore, it is beneficial to refer to your manufacturer's documentation if you are not sure of the correct key.

Method 3: Using Command Prompt

An advanced method involves using the Command Prompt, which allows you to boot into BIOS/UEFI settings via command line instructions.

Steps to access BIOS/UEFI:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type cmd and then press Enter to open the Command Prompt window.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command:

shutdown /r /o /f /t 00

4. Press Enter. Your computer will restart and present the Advanced Boot Options menu.
5. Follow steps 6 to 9 of Method 1 to access BIOS/UEFI settings.

This method is useful when accessing the Settings app isn’t possible or you prefer using command-line tools.

Exploring the BIOS/UEFI Interface

Once you reach the BIOS/UEFI settings interface, it is useful to know how to navigate and configure the various settings. Although interfaces may vary, most include the following sections:

• Main: This section contains basic system information such as processor type, system memory, and BIOS version.
• Advanced: This includes more detailed settings for CPU, memory, PCH configuration, etc.
• Boot: Manages the boot order, allowing you to choose which devices to check first for OS boot.
• Security: Modify or enable security features, such as password, secure boot, etc.
• Exit: Options to save or discard changes and exit the Setup utility.

Exercise extreme caution when changing settings in the BIOS/UEFI interface, as incorrect configuration may affect system stability or hardware compatibility.

Common Challenges

Accessing BIOS/UEFI settings may not always be easy, so here are some common problems and solutions:

• Fast Boot: If your BIOS is set to Fast Boot, you may lose the opportunity to quickly press the specified key. Disable Fast Boot in BIOS/UEFI settings.
• Secure Boot: On some systems, Secure Boot needs to be turned off to access certain changes, especially if working with third-party hardware. Make sure you understand the implications before disabling it.
• Manufacturer specific keys: Failure to enter BIOS may be caused by pressing the wrong keys. Double check your system documentation.

Conclusion

Accessing BIOS/UEFI in Windows 11 can be done in several ways, which can vary in ease depending on user preference and level of experience. Whether through the Settings app, using specific keys during boot, or opting for a command-line solution, these methods ensure that you can perform the necessary hardware configuration and troubleshooting. Always exercise caution when making any settings changes to maintain system stability and functionality. If difficulties arise, it is advisable to refer to specific manufacturer instructions or consult professional support. With this guide, you are now equipped to navigate the intricacies of BIOS/UEFI access with confidence.

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