Windows 10 enter BIOS optionSource: Windows Central

On Computers, the Basic Input Output System (BIOS) is an essential low-level software that sits on one of the chips of the motherboard, and it's responsible for basic operations, such as booting and configuring hardware (mouse, keyboard, memory, processor, etc.). The Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is a modern software designed to replace the legacy BIOS with additional benefits, such as improved security, faster boot times, large capacity hard drive support, and more.

Although these are different technologies, modern devices now use UEFI, but to avoid confusion, sometimes you'll continue to hear the term "BIOS" to refer to "UEFI."

If you use a Windows 10 device, usually, the firmware works automatically. However, sometimes you may still need to enter the motherboard BIOS to troubleshoot problems, enable or disable features (such as virtualization, RAID array, and secure boot), adjust memory and processor advanced settings, and more.

VPN Deals: Lifetime license for $16, monthly plans at $1 & more

The only caveat is that the BIOS is a startup environment, which means that you can't access it when Windows 10 is running. However, if you have to change some system settings, there are multiple methods to access the motherboard firmware.

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through the steps to enter the BIOS/UEFI on your computer to change advanced system settings.

How to access UEFI (BIOS) using Settings

To enter the UEFI firmware from Windows 10, use these steps:

Warning: Changing the wrong firmware settings can prevent your computer from starting correctly. You should only access the motherboard firmware when you have an excellent reason. It's assumed that you know what you're doing.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on Update & Security.
  3. Click on Recovery.

  4. Under the "Advanced startup" section, click the Restart now button.

    Windows 10 Recovery Settings Advanced StartupSource: Windows Central

  5. Click on Troubleshoot.

    Advanced Startup Troubleshoot optionSource: Windows Central

  6. Click on Advanced options.

    Windows 10 Advanced Options Source: Windows Central

  7. Click the UEFI Firmware settings option.

    Windows 10 UEFI firmware settings option Quick tip: If you have a legacy BIOS, the option will not be available.Source: Windows Central

  8. Click the Restart button.

    Windows 10 reboot to enter BIOS/UEFISource: Windows Central

Once you complete the steps, the device will restart and boot into the UEFI firmware allowing you to change advanced settings, such as to disable or enable secure boot, change boot order, set up a hardware RAID array, enable virtualization, and other settings depending on the motherboard support.

How to access UEFI (BIOS) using boot key option

If you don't have access to the Windows 10 desktop or you're using a device with a legacy BIOS, then you can still access the firmware during boot.

To enter the UEFI or legacy BIOS during boot, use these steps:

  1. Press the Power button.
  2. See the screen splash to identify the key you must press to enter the firmware (if applicable).
  3. Press the required key repeatedly until you enter the setup mode. Usually, you need to press the ESC, Delete, or one of the Function keys (F1, F2, F10, etc.).

After you complete the steps, the device will access the BIOS or UEFI firmware, depending on the motherboard support. If you don't see the information on the screen or the device boots too fast, restart the device again, and as soon as the boot starts, press the required key multiple times quickly.

If you can't make the computer to access the firmware using the keyboard, you may need to check your device manufacturer to find out the key that you need to press during boot.

Here are some computer brands and their respective keys to access the motherboard firmware:

  • Dell: F2 or F12.
  • HP: ESC or F10.
  • Acer: F2 or Delete.
  • ASUS: F2 or Delete.
  • Lenovo: F1 or F2.
  • MSI: Delete.
  • Toshiba: F2.
  • Samsung: F2.
  • Surface: Press and hold volume up button.

In the case that your device is using a UEFI firmware, and you can't seem to access it during startup, then it's recommended to use the Settings option from within Windows 10.

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

Could the Qualcomm SC8280 be the answer to Apple's M1?
Flexing on ARM

Could the Qualcomm SC8280 be the answer to Apple's M1?

A new report suggests Qualcomm may finally be readying a brand-new chip design for Windows on ARM PCs. The SC8280 is a larger chip that supports up to 32GB of RAM and even faster LPDDR5. But how many cores it can run and how fast it remains unknown. The chances we'll see it in 2021, however, seem likely.

Check out Windows Central's Best of CES 2021 picks
Simply the best

Check out Windows Central's Best of CES 2021 picks

Another CES is officially in the books. While this year brought an entirely new, virtual experience, it was still packed to the brim with new laptops, exciting tech, and much more. We've rounded up our picks for the best of the best from CES 2021.