The BIOS, which stands for Basic Input/Output System is essential for managing hardware configurations and boot processes on your PC. Knowing how to access the BIOS is crucial for tasks like changing boot sequences enabling virtualization or restoring system settings.

In this detailed guide, we will walk you through 4 methods to access the BIOS in Windows 11. The BIOS is crucial as it initializes hardware during startup and provides runtime services for operating systems and applications. It also allows you to adjust hardware settings, update firmware, and troubleshoot issues.

How to Get Into Bios Windows 11 – 4 Methods

Why It’s Important to Access BIOS

• Adjusting boot sequences to prioritize a USB drive or external device.
•  Enabling or disabling functionalities like virtualization.
•  Updating BIOS firmware for hardware compatibility and performance.
•  Resolving hardware problems by modifying configurations or restoring default settings. 
  

 Before diving into BIOS tinkering, it’s crucial to take a few precautions:

• Remember to back up all your files and data before making any changes in the BIOS. You can use an external storage device or a cloud service to keep your data safe in case something goes wrong.
• It’s important to be aware that making adjustments in the BIOS can affect your systems stability and performance. Take your time. Carefully review any settings you plan to change.

Using Settings in Windows 11

One of the easiest ways to access BIOS in Windows 11 is through the Settings app. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings App : Press Win + I or click on the Start menu and select Settings.

2. Navigate to System : In the Settings window, click on System from the left sidebar.

3. Select Recovery : Scroll down and select Recovery.

4. Advanced Startup : Under the Advanced startup section, click on Restart now.

5. Troubleshoot : After your PC restarts, select Troubleshoot from the options.

6. Advanced Options : Click on Advanced options.

7. UEFI Firmware Settings : Select UEFI Firmware Settings and click Restart.

Your computer will restart, and you’ll enter BIOS directly.

Using a Specific Key During Boot

Another common method to enter BIOS is by pressing a specific key during the boot process. Here’s how:

Common Keys to Enter BIOS 

Different manufacturers use different keys to access BIOS. Here are some common ones:

•  Delete  or  F2  for most computers.
•  F10  for HP devices.
•  Esc  for some other brands.

 Step-by-Step Guide 

1.  Shut Down Your Computer : Completely shut down your PC.
2.  Turn It Back On : Press the power button to turn on your computer.
3.  Press the Specific Key : Immediately start pressing the designated BIOS key (e.g., Delete, F2) repeatedly.

If done correctly, you should enter the BIOS setup screen.

Using Command Prompt

You can also use the Command Prompt to access BIOS. Follow these steps:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator : Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
2.  Enter the Command : Type shutdown /r /o /f /t 00 and press Enter.
3.  Advanced Startup Menu : Your computer will restart to the Advanced startup menu.

From here, follow the steps under Method 1 to access BIOS.

Accessing BIOS on Specific Manufacturers

Each computer manufacturer may have slightly different methods for accessing BIOS. Here are instructions for some popular brands:

•  Dell :
• Press F2 or Delete during the boot process.
•  HP :
• Press Esc or F10 when starting up.
•  Lenovo :
• Press F2 or Fn + F2 to enter BIOS.
•  Asus :
• Press Delete or F2 at the boot screen.
•  Acer :
• Press Delete or F2 during startup.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you can visit your manufacturer’s support page. Here are some useful links: Dell Support, HP Support, Lenovo Support.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you face any issues while trying to access BIOS here are some troubleshooting tips:

•  Fast Boot Issues : Fast boot can skip the BIOS entry prompt. Disable fast boot in Windows settings or through the BIOS setup utility.For a detailed guide on how to disable fast boot, refer to this article:  How to Disable Fast Boot in Windows 11 .
•  Wireless Keyboards : Wireless keyboards might not register key presses during boot. Try using a wired keyboard instead.
•  Motherboard Manual : Check your motherboard manual or the manufacturer’s support page for specific instructions.

If you continue to have trouble, consult your motherboard manual or the manufacturer’s support page for specific troubleshooting steps.

Restoring Default Settings in BIOS

Restoring defaults will revert all settings to their original state, which can help troubleshoot problems. Here’s how:

1. Enter BIOS : Use any of the methods mentioned above to access BIOS.
2.  Restore Default Settings : Look for a tab or menu labeled ‘Exit’ or ‘Save & Exit’ and select ‘Load Setup Defaults’ or a similarly named option.
3.  Save and Exit : Select the option and confirm. Save your changes and exit BIOS.
4.  Seek Help from the Manufacturer: Refer to your manual or contact the manufacturers support team for guidance.

Restoring defaults will revert all settings to their original state, which can help troubleshoot problems.

What is BIOS and why is it important?

Can I access BIOS without a keyboard?

What do I do if I accidentally change a BIOS setting and my computer won’t boot?

Can I access BIOS without a keyboard?

What do I do if I can’t find the BIOS key for my system?

How can I tell if my changes in BIOS were saved correctly?

In conclusion

To access the BIOS in Windows 11, you can use one of four methods: 1) Restart your computer and press the BIOS key during startup, typically shown on the boot screen or in the manual; 2) Hold the Shift key while selecting Restart from the Start menu to reach the Advanced Startup menu and access UEFI settings; 3) Open Settings, go to System, then Recovery, and click Restart now under Advanced startup to access UEFI; or 4) Use a Windows 11 recovery drive to boot and follow prompts to reach UEFI settings. Always back up your data before making changes.