Learning how to enter BIOS in Windows 11 is useful when you need to change hardware settings, adjust the boot order, enable virtualization, check firmware options, or troubleshoot startup problems. The process can seem intimidating at first, especially because BIOS or UEFI settings appear before Windows fully loads.

The good news? You don’t need to be a computer expert to access them.

Windows 11 provides an easy way to restart your PC directly into its firmware settings. You can also enter BIOS by pressing a specific key while the computer starts. The exact key depends on your computer or motherboard manufacturer.

In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn how to enter BIOS in Windows 11 using several methods. We’ll explain the difference between BIOS and UEFI, show you how to use Windows Settings and advanced startup, cover common BIOS keys, explain what to do if the key doesn’t work, and discuss important precautions before changing firmware settings.

Table of Contents

What Is BIOS?

BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System.

It is firmware that helps initialize your computer’s hardware before the operating system starts.

When you turn on your PC, the firmware checks and initializes important components such as the processor, memory, storage devices, and other hardware.

It then helps start the operating system.

Think of BIOS as the computer’s backstage manager. Windows is the main show you see, but the firmware helps prepare the hardware before that show begins.

What Is UEFI?

Most modern Windows 11 computers use UEFI, which stands for Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, rather than traditional legacy BIOS.

People still commonly use the word “BIOS” when referring to these firmware settings.

UEFI provides many improvements over traditional BIOS, including support for modern hardware, larger storage devices, Secure Boot, and a more flexible firmware environment.

So when someone says “enter BIOS in Windows 11,” they often really mean open the UEFI firmware settings.

Why Would You Need to Enter BIOS in Windows 11?

There are several reasons to access your computer’s firmware settings.

You might need to:

Change the boot order
Boot from a USB drive
Check hardware configuration
Enable virtualization
Enable or configure TPM
Configure Secure Boot
Adjust certain processor or memory settings
Troubleshoot hardware detection
Change storage-related firmware settings
Restore firmware defaults

However, BIOS/UEFI isn’t a place where you should change settings randomly.

If you don’t know what an option does, it’s usually safer to leave it unchanged.

How to Enter BIOS in Windows 11 From Settings

For beginners, using Windows 11’s Advanced Startup options is often the easiest method.

You don’t have to guess which keyboard key to press.

Step 1: Open Windows Settings

Press:

Windows + I

This opens the Windows Settings application.

Step 2: Select System

Click System in the left-hand navigation panel.

Step 3: Open Recovery

Scroll down and select Recovery.

Step 4: Find Advanced Startup

Look for Advanced startup.

Select Restart now.

Windows will warn you that your computer is about to restart.

Save any open work before continuing.

Step 5: Open Troubleshoot

After your PC restarts, you’ll see the Windows Recovery Environment.

Select:

Troubleshoot

Step 6: Select Advanced Options

Choose:

Advanced options

Step 7: Select UEFI Firmware Settings

Look for:

UEFI Firmware Settings

Select it.

Step 8: Restart

Click Restart.

Your computer should restart directly into its UEFI firmware settings.

This is one of the easiest answers to the question, “How do I enter BIOS in Windows 11?”

How to Enter BIOS in Windows 11 Using the Restart Menu

Another method uses Windows 11’s recovery options.

Open the Start menu.

Select the Power button.

Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.

While holding Shift, select Restart.

Keep holding Shift until Windows begins restarting.

You’ll enter the recovery environment.

From there, select:

Troubleshoot → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings → Restart

Your PC should then open the firmware interface.

How to Enter BIOS Using a Keyboard Key

You can also enter BIOS or UEFI during startup.

This is the traditional approach.

Step 1: Shut Down or Restart Your PC

Save your work and shut down the computer.

Step 2: Turn It On

Press the power button.

Step 3: Press the BIOS Key

Immediately begin pressing the appropriate BIOS or UEFI key repeatedly.

Common keys include:

Delete
F2
F10
F12
Esc

The correct key depends on your manufacturer.

Don’t hold the key continuously on every system. Repeatedly tapping it during startup is often more reliable.

Common BIOS Keys by Computer Manufacturer

Different PC manufacturers use different keys.

Manufacturer	Common BIOS/UEFI Key
Dell	F2
HP	Esc or F10
Lenovo	F1, F2, or a dedicated recovery/firmware button
ASUS	Delete or F2
Acer	F2 or Delete
MSI	Delete
Gigabyte	Delete
ASRock	Delete or F2
Microsoft Surface	Volume Up while powering on
Samsung	F2
Toshiba	F2 or Esc

The exact key can vary between models.

If one key doesn’t work, check your computer or motherboard manufacturer’s documentation for the correct procedure.

How to Enter BIOS on a Dell Windows 11 PC

On many Dell systems, you can enter BIOS by restarting the computer and repeatedly pressing F2 when the Dell logo appears.

The boot menu may use a different key, commonly F12.

This distinction matters.

If you want BIOS settings, use the BIOS setup key. If you want to temporarily choose a boot device, use the boot-menu key.

How to Enter BIOS on an HP Windows 11 PC

HP computers commonly use Esc to open the startup menu.

From there, you can select the appropriate firmware setup option.

On many HP systems, F10 is associated with BIOS Setup.

Because HP has many different models, the exact startup sequence can vary.

How to Enter BIOS on a Lenovo Windows 11 PC

Lenovo computers can use keys such as F1 or F2, depending on the model.

Some Lenovo laptops also have a dedicated button that can open a startup or recovery menu.

If the function keys aren’t responding, check whether your laptop uses special function-key behavior.

How to Enter BIOS on an ASUS Windows 11 PC

Many ASUS desktops and laptops use Delete or F2 to access firmware settings.

Start the computer and repeatedly press the appropriate key as soon as the ASUS logo appears.

For exact instructions, check your specific model.

How to Enter BIOS on an Acer Windows 11 PC

Acer systems commonly use F2 for BIOS setup.

Some models may use different keys or startup procedures.

If F2 doesn’t work, consult the documentation for your specific Acer device.

How to Enter BIOS on an MSI Motherboard

If you’re using a desktop with an MSI motherboard, Delete is commonly used to enter the firmware setup.

Start or restart the computer and repeatedly press Delete during the initial startup screen.

How to Enter BIOS on a Gigabyte Motherboard

Gigabyte motherboards commonly use Delete to enter UEFI firmware settings.

Press the key repeatedly immediately after turning on the computer.

How to Enter BIOS on an ASRock Motherboard

Many ASRock motherboards use Delete or F2.

Start the PC and repeatedly press one of these keys when the system begins booting.

How to Enter BIOS on a Surface Device

Microsoft Surface devices use a different procedure from many traditional laptops.

The exact steps depend on the Surface model.

A common method involves shutting down the device, holding a hardware volume button, and then pressing the power button.

Because Surface models can differ, use the instructions specific to your model rather than assuming a standard F-key will work.

What Is the Difference Between BIOS and the Boot Menu?

This is an important distinction.

The BIOS/UEFI setup lets you change firmware and hardware-related settings.

The boot menu allows you to select which device the computer should boot from.

For example, you might use the boot menu to temporarily start from a Windows installation USB.

You might enter BIOS/UEFI when you need to change the default boot order or configure firmware settings.

They’re related but aren’t the same thing.

How to Enter BIOS When Fast Startup Is Enabled

Windows 11’s startup behavior can make timing-based BIOS access difficult.

If your computer boots too quickly for you to press the correct key, use the Windows Settings method instead.

Go to:

Settings → System → Recovery → Advanced startup → Restart now

Then select:

Troubleshoot → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings

This avoids the race against the startup screen.

Why Can’t I Enter BIOS With F2 or Delete?

If repeatedly pressing the expected key doesn’t work, several things could be happening.

You’re Pressing the Key Too Late

Start tapping the key immediately after pressing the power button.

You’re Using the Wrong Key

Your specific model may use a different key.

Function Keys Are Configured Differently

Some laptops use special function-key behavior.

Try using the Fn key with the appropriate function key if required.

Your Keyboard Isn’t Detected Early Enough

If you’re using a wireless keyboard, try a wired USB keyboard instead.

For desktop computers, connect the keyboard directly to the computer rather than through a USB hub.

The PC Boots Too Quickly

Use the Windows Advanced Startup method.

What If UEFI Firmware Settings Is Missing?

Sometimes you won’t see UEFI Firmware Settings under Advanced Options.

This can happen for several reasons.

Your PC might be configured using a legacy BIOS mode rather than UEFI, although this is less common on newer Windows 11 systems.

There may also be firmware, configuration, or manufacturer-specific limitations.

If the option is missing, try the manufacturer’s startup key instead.

You can also check your Windows system configuration before making firmware changes.

How to Check Whether Windows Uses UEFI

Windows provides a useful system information tool.

Press:

Windows + R

Type:

msinfo32

Press Enter.

The System Information window will open.

Look for:

BIOS Mode

It may show UEFI or another configuration depending on your system.

This can help you understand how Windows is currently configured.

How to Enter BIOS From Command Prompt

Windows also provides commands that can restart a compatible system into its firmware settings.

Open an appropriate Windows terminal with administrator permissions.

You can use:

shutdown /r /fw /t 0

This requests a restart into the firmware user interface on systems that support the feature.

If your computer doesn’t support this method, Windows may simply restart normally.

For beginners, the Settings method is generally easier because it provides a graphical path.

What Should You Do Before Entering BIOS?

Simply entering BIOS usually doesn’t change anything.

Still, it’s smart to prepare before making changes.

Save Your Work

Any restart can interrupt unsaved work.

Know What You Want to Change

Don’t enter firmware settings without a specific goal.

Record Existing Settings

If you’re planning to change something, take a photo or write down the original setting first.

This gives you a reference point if you need to restore it.

Read the Description

Many UEFI menus provide explanations for individual settings.

Read them carefully before making changes.

What Should You Avoid Changing in BIOS?

If you’re a beginner, avoid changing settings unless you know exactly why you’re changing them.

Be particularly careful with:

CPU configuration
Memory timing
Voltage settings
Storage controller settings
Boot mode
Secure Boot
Firmware security settings
Overclocking settings

A wrong firmware configuration can prevent Windows from booting properly.

If you change something and your PC suddenly stops starting normally, restoring the previous setting may resolve the issue.

How to Exit BIOS Without Saving Changes

If you entered BIOS simply to look around, you don’t have to save anything.

Look for an option such as:

Exit Without Saving

or a similarly named option.

The exact menu names vary by manufacturer.

If you’ve made changes accidentally, do not choose a save option unless you intend to keep them.

How to Save BIOS Changes

If you’ve deliberately changed a setting, look for an option such as:

Save & Exit

The exact wording can differ.

After saving, your computer will normally restart.

Before confirming, review the changes if your firmware provides a summary.

What Happens After You Exit BIOS?

After exiting firmware settings, the computer should continue its normal startup process.

If you changed the boot order, however, the PC may attempt to start from a different device.

For example, if a USB drive is configured as the first boot device, the computer may try to boot from that USB before the internal SSD.

This is why boot-order changes should be made carefully.

How to Fix a PC That Won’t Boot After a BIOS Change

If Windows stops booting after you changed a firmware setting, don’t immediately assume the computer is permanently damaged.

First, return to the firmware settings.

Look for the setting you changed and restore its previous value.

If you aren’t sure what changed, some systems provide an option to restore optimized or default firmware settings.

However, restoring defaults can also change settings you previously configured, so use that option thoughtfully.

If the computer still won’t boot, consult your PC or motherboard manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions.

Can You Damage Your PC by Entering BIOS?

Simply opening the BIOS or UEFI settings does not normally damage your computer.

The risk comes from making inappropriate changes.

Changing advanced settings without understanding them can cause instability, boot problems, or unexpected hardware behavior.

The safest rule is simple:

If you don’t know what a setting does, don’t change it.

BIOS vs. Windows Settings

It’s useful to understand which environment you should use.

Task	Windows	BIOS/UEFI
Change desktop settings	Yes	No
Install applications	Yes	No
Change boot order	Limited	Yes
Configure Secure Boot	No	Yes
Configure firmware TPM	No	Yes
Select temporary boot device	Sometimes	Yes
Change many hardware-level settings	No	Yes
Manage normal files	Yes	No

BIOS/UEFI is designed for lower-level computer configuration.

Windows Settings is where you’ll perform most everyday configuration tasks.

Best Method for Beginners

If you’re new to computers, the Windows Settings → Advanced Startup → UEFI Firmware Settings method is usually the easiest.

You don’t need to know your manufacturer’s BIOS key, and you don’t have to guess when to press it.

The keyboard-key method is still valuable when Windows won’t start or when you need to access firmware before Windows loads.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I enter BIOS in Windows 11?

Open Settings → System → Recovery → Advanced startup → Restart now. Then choose Troubleshoot → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings → Restart. Your PC should restart into its firmware settings if the option is supported.

2. What key opens BIOS in Windows 11?

Common BIOS keys include F2 and Delete, although some computers use F10, Esc, or another key. The correct key depends on your PC or motherboard manufacturer.

3. How do I enter BIOS if Windows 11 starts too quickly?

Use Windows 11’s Advanced Startup options instead of trying to catch the BIOS key during startup. Go to Settings → System → Recovery → Advanced startup → Restart now, then select UEFI Firmware Settings.

4. Is BIOS the same as UEFI?

Not exactly. Traditional BIOS and UEFI are different firmware technologies. However, modern PCs generally use UEFI, and people commonly continue to call the firmware setup screen “BIOS.”

5. What should I do if I can’t find UEFI Firmware Settings?

Try the manufacturer’s BIOS key during startup. If the UEFI option isn’t available in Windows Recovery, your system may use a different firmware configuration or may require a manufacturer-specific access method.

Conclusion

Knowing how to enter BIOS in Windows 11 gives you access to important firmware settings that aren’t available inside normal Windows menus. You can enter UEFI through Windows Advanced Startup or use a manufacturer-specific keyboard key during the computer’s startup process.

For beginners, the Windows method is usually the simplest because it eliminates the need to guess the correct BIOS key or timing. Simply open Settings → System → Recovery → Advanced startup, restart, and select UEFI Firmware Settings when available.

If Windows won’t start, the keyboard method becomes more useful. Common keys include F2 and Delete, but the correct key varies by computer and motherboard.

Remember that accessing BIOS is generally safe; changing settings without understanding them is where problems can occur. Before modifying anything, know what you’re trying to accomplish, record important existing settings, and avoid changing advanced options unnecessarily.

Once you understand the difference between Windows settings, BIOS/UEFI, and the boot menu, firmware configuration becomes much less mysterious.

Key Takeaways

BIOS is traditionally the firmware interface used to configure a PC before Windows starts.
Modern Windows 11 computers generally use UEFI firmware.
The easiest method is Settings → System → Recovery → Advanced startup → Restart now.
From recovery, select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings.
Common BIOS keys include F2, Delete, F10, and Esc.
The correct BIOS key varies by manufacturer and model.
The boot menu and BIOS/UEFI setup are different.
msinfo32 can help you check your current BIOS Mode.
A wired keyboard can be useful if your keyboard isn’t detected early during startup.
Entering BIOS is normally safe, but changing unfamiliar settings can cause boot or hardware problems.
Record important settings before making changes.
If you only need to inspect BIOS, exit without saving changes.