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To open BIOS (UEFI) settings in Windows 11, go to Settings > System > Recovery and select Restart now beside Advanced startup. Then choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart. The computer restarts into its firmware interface; the exact options and labels depend on the device.

What BIOS and UEFI do

UEFI is the firmware that runs before Windows starts. “BIOS” remains a common name for the firmware setup screen, though modern computers generally use UEFI. Firmware settings can include options such as boot order and Secure Boot; TPM settings may also appear, depending on the device. The manufacturer determines which options are available and how they are labeled.

Microsoft advises consulting the device manufacturer for firmware guidance and cautions that unnecessary changes can affect access to Windows. Change only the setting you need.

Method 1: Enter UEFI from Windows 11 Settings

  1. Save open work and open Settings. You can also press Windows key + I.
  2. Select System > Recovery.
  3. Beside Advanced startup, select Restart now. Save any unsaved work if Windows prompts you.
  4. After the PC restarts, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings.
  5. Select Restart. The PC restarts into its firmware settings.

The interface may be labeled “BIOS” rather than “UEFI.” Use the manufacturer’s instructions for the controls and settings on your specific model.

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Method 2: Use the Surface hardware-button route

Microsoft documents a hardware-button method for Surface devices. This is a Surface-specific procedure; do not assume it applies to other brands. Surface model capabilities can vary.

  1. Shut down the Surface and wait about ten seconds.
  2. Press and hold Volume Up.
  3. Press and release the Power button while continuing to hold Volume Up.
  4. Release Volume Up when the UEFI screen appears.

Access methods at a glance

Method When it applies What to do
Windows Recovery Environment General Windows 11 route Use Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup, then choose UEFI Firmware Settings.
Surface hardware buttons Surface devices covered by Microsoft’s instructions Shut down, hold Volume Up, press and release Power, and release Volume Up when UEFI appears.

What to do if UEFI Firmware Settings is missing

If UEFI Firmware Settings is not listed in Advanced options, check the computer maker’s support page or device manual for its firmware access instructions. Availability and wording vary by device, so a Windows-side fix is not guaranteed.

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If BitLocker asks for a recovery key

Have the BitLocker recovery key available if Recovery requests it. Microsoft says an encrypted device requires the key to complete the Windows Recovery Environment task.

Do not confuse Startup Settings with UEFI

Startup Settings is a separate Windows troubleshooting option, with choices such as Safe Mode. It is not the firmware interface. Select UEFI Firmware Settings in Advanced options to open UEFI when that choice is available.

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Before changing a firmware setting

  • Change only the setting you need, and follow the device manufacturer’s guidance.
  • Keep the BitLocker recovery key available if the encrypted device requests it.
  • Remember that unnecessary firmware changes can affect access to Windows.

FAQ

How do I get into BIOS in Windows 11?

Open Settings > System > Recovery, select Restart now beside Advanced startup, then choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart.

Why is UEFI Firmware Settings not showing in Windows 11?

The option may not be available on your device or may use different wording. Check the computer manufacturer’s current support page or device manual for its firmware access instructions.

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Is Startup Settings the same as BIOS or UEFI?

No. Startup Settings provides Windows boot troubleshooting choices such as Safe Mode. UEFI Firmware Settings opens the device’s firmware interface.

Will I need a BitLocker recovery key?

If Windows Recovery Environment requests recovery information on an encrypted device, you need the BitLocker recovery key to complete that task.

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Does the Surface button method work on other PCs?

The Volume Up and Power procedure is documented for Surface devices. For other computers, follow that manufacturer’s instructions.

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The Bottom Line

For most Windows 11 readers, the documented route is Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now, followed by Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart. If the option is absent, consult the device manufacturer; the Surface button method applies only to supported Surface devices.

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