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There is no single BIOS key for every Windows 10 PC. The key depends on the computer’s manufacturer and model: Dell documents F2, ASUS uses F2 in its Windows 10/11 procedure, and Lenovo documents F1 or F2 on different machines. If Windows is working, you may also be able to reach UEFI settings through Advanced Startup.

Which key should you press?

Use the key specified for your exact computer model. The manufacturer examples below are starting points, not universal rules:

Manufacturer Documented method
Dell Tap F2 several times when the Dell logo appears. Dell Support
ASUS Hold F2 until the BIOS configuration screen appears; the support procedure covers Windows 10 and 11. ASUS Support
Lenovo Press F1 or F2 depending on the machine; some systems require holding Fn while pressing the function key. Lenovo Support

Lenovo’s product guide gives one model-specific example: F2 or Fn+F2 when the logo appears. That instruction applies to the models covered by that guide, not every Lenovo PC. Lenovo product guide

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How to try the startup-key method

  1. Look up the BIOS or UEFI entry instructions for your exact computer model in its official support page or manual.
  2. Shut down or restart the computer.
  3. As soon as the manufacturer’s logo appears, press the documented key as directed. Depending on the model, you may need to tap it repeatedly or hold it down. If the instructions specify Fn, use that too.

If Windows starts normally, restart and try again, beginning to press the key as the logo appears. If it still does not work, verify the model-specific instructions rather than assuming another manufacturer’s key applies.

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How to open UEFI settings from Windows 10

If Windows is accessible, Advanced Startup provides another route on supported PCs. On Dell computers covered by its instructions, the path is:

  1. Open Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
  2. Under Advanced startup, select Restart now.
  3. After the recovery menu appears, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart.

Microsoft also describes reaching UEFI settings through the Windows Recovery Environment. The available menu labels and firmware handoff depend on the PC; Microsoft notes that the firmware interface varies by manufacturer. Microsoft Support

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What if UEFI Firmware Settings is missing?

The Windows route is not available on every computer. Dell specifically notes that some of its systems may not support this method, and the sources do not establish that every PC exposes the same recovery option. If UEFI Firmware Settings is absent, or the startup key does not work, check the official instructions for your exact model. For PCs from other manufacturers, do not assume F2 or another example listed here applies.

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BIOS or UEFI: which screen are you opening?

People commonly call the computer’s firmware setup screen “BIOS,” including on newer PCs that use UEFI. Windows’ firmware-settings option is labeled UEFI Firmware Settings, and its appearance varies with the manufacturer. The practical goal is the same: enter the firmware setup screen using the route supported by your particular computer.

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