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On a supported Windows PC, open Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now, then select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart. If that option is unavailable, use the setup key specified for your exact computer or motherboard as it starts; the key varies by model.
Enter BIOS or UEFI through Windows
This route is useful when you can reach Windows and your computer supports handing off to firmware setup. Save open work first, because the process restarts your PC.
- Windows 11: Open Settings > System > Recovery. Beside Advanced startup, select Restart now.
- Windows 10: Open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, then select Restart now under Advanced startup.
- In the recovery menu, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart. If supported, the PC restarts into its firmware setup utility.
Microsoft documents the firmware handoff and notes that the settings interface differs across devices: Microsoft’s Windows 11 and Secure Boot guidance. ASUS also documents these Windows recovery paths for Windows 10 and 11: ASUS: How to enter the BIOS configuration screen.
Enter setup with the startup key
The startup-key method works before Windows loads, but the correct key depends on the manufacturer and model. Power on or restart the computer, then press the documented setup key as soon as the manufacturer’s logo appears. Follow any on-screen prompt; some systems require repeated taps, while others specify holding a key.
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- ASUS: Its instructions for covered devices say to hold F2 while pressing the power button. Some older ASUS desktop models may use Del.
- Dell: Tap F2 at the Dell logo.
- Lenovo ThinkPad, ThinkCentre, and ThinkStation: Follow the instructions for the specific device family and any startup-interrupt prompt shown at the Lenovo logo. Lenovo also documents the Windows UEFI route; do not assume one key applies to every Lenovo product family.
Check the computer or motherboard’s support instructions if the prompt is not visible or the key does not open setup. The vendor instructions describe their own product lines, not a universal key: ASUS startup instructions, Dell BIOS or UEFI access instructions, and Lenovo BIOS access guidance.
Which access route should you use?
| Route | Use it when | What can prevent it |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Advanced Startup | You can reach Windows and want to restart directly into firmware setup. | The PC may not support the handoff, or UEFI Firmware Settings may not appear. |
| Startup key | You need to enter setup before the operating system loads, or Windows is unavailable. | The key and timing vary by model; use the manufacturer’s instructions. |
What BIOS and UEFI settings control
“BIOS” remains a common name for the firmware setup screen, although modern PCs commonly use UEFI. Microsoft describes firmware as software that runs before Windows and notes that UEFI is sometimes called BIOS.
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Depending on the computer, setup may provide boot options, Secure Boot controls, power-management choices, or CPU and PCI/PCIe settings. These are examples, not a standard set of options: a manufacturer may expose different controls on different models. HP’s commercial PC documentation illustrates some of the categories: HP BIOS Setup Utility documentation.
If the firmware option or startup key does not work
- UEFI Firmware Settings is missing: The Windows handoff may not be supported on your system. Use the model-specific startup-key instructions or consult its support documentation.
- The startup key is ignored: Check the exact model’s instructions, including when to press or hold the key. Manufacturer interfaces and procedures can vary between models.
- You can reach the sign-in screen but Windows is damaged: On Dell systems, hold Shift while selecting Restart from the sign-in screen to reach Advanced Options, then look for the UEFI firmware option if available.
- Neither route is available: There is no universal recovery procedure established for every PC. Use the support instructions for the exact computer or motherboard.
Dell’s guidance covers both the startup key and the sign-in-screen recovery route: Dell BIOS or UEFI access instructions.
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Be careful when changing firmware settings
Entering setup does not require changing anything. Adjust only the setting needed for your task: Microsoft cautions that changing other UEFI or BIOS settings can prevent access to Windows.
Be particularly careful with boot mode. Secure Boot depends on the device’s configuration; a system set to Legacy BIOS or Compatibility Support Module (CSM) may need UEFI selected for Secure Boot. Do not switch between Legacy/CSM and UEFI casually—the appropriate mode depends on the existing installation and your goal. If you are unsure, follow the PC maker’s instructions before changing it.
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- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
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