Whether you need to change the boot order, troubleshoot startup issues, or boot from a USB drive, the Boot Menu in Windows 11 is your go-to tool. But if you’re new to Windows 11, you might be asking: How do I open the Boot Menu quickly and safely?
This guide will show you how to access the Boot Menu in Windows 11 step by step using different methods — including keyboard shortcuts, advanced startup options, and BIOS settings.
What Is the Boot Menu in Windows 11?
The Boot Menu is a startup menu that lets you choose which device or partition Windows should boot from. Instead of always starting from your main hard drive, you can use the Boot Menu to:
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Boot from a USB drive.
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Launch recovery tools.
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Boot from a DVD or external SSD.
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Access advanced startup and troubleshooting options.
Think of it like the control center that tells your PC where to load Windows from.
Why Do You Need the Boot Menu?
You’ll need the Boot Menu if you want to:
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Install or reinstall Windows 11 from USB.
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Troubleshoot startup problems.
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Run system recovery tools.
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Access safe mode.
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Change boot priority between hard drive, SSD, or USB.
Method 1: Access Boot Menu Using a Keyboard Key (During Startup)
This is the classic method. When your PC starts, pressing a specific key opens the Boot Menu.
Steps:
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Turn off your computer completely.
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Turn it back on.
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As soon as the PC powers up, press the Boot Menu key (before Windows starts loading).
Common keys include: F2, F8, F10, F12, Esc, or Del, depending on your manufacturer.
✔️ Best for users installing Windows or booting from external media.
Method 2: Open Boot Menu from Windows Settings
You can enter the Boot Menu directly from Windows 11 Settings.
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to System → Recovery.
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Under Advanced Startup, click Restart Now.
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Your PC will restart into the Advanced Boot Menu.
Method 3: Access Boot Menu via Advanced Startup (Shift + Restart)
Another quick method is using Shift + Restart.
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Hold down the Shift key.
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While holding, click Restart from the Start Menu or login screen.
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Your PC will restart into the Boot Options Menu.
Method 4: Use Command Prompt to Enter Boot Menu
If you prefer using commands:
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
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Type:
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Press Enter.
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Your PC will restart into the Advanced Boot Menu.
Method 5: Access Boot Menu with Run Command
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Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
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Type:
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Press Enter.
This triggers the Advanced Boot Options Menu instantly.
Method 6: Force Windows to Boot into Advanced Options
If your PC isn’t starting properly:
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Turn on your PC and force shutdown by holding the power button.
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Repeat this process 3 times.
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On the fourth boot, Windows will enter the Automatic Repair / Boot Options Menu.
✔️ Helpful when Windows won’t boot normally.
How to Change Boot Order in Windows 11
Once inside Boot Menu or BIOS:
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Navigate using the arrow keys.
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Go to Boot Options / Boot Order.
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Select the device you want to boot from (USB, SSD, HDD).
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Save changes (usually F10) and exit.
Boot Menu Keys by Popular Laptop & PC Brands
| Brand | Boot Menu Key | BIOS Key |
|---|---|---|
| HP | Esc / F9 | F10 |
| Dell | F12 | F2 |
| Lenovo | F12 / Novo Button | F1 / F2 |
| Acer | F12 | Del / F2 |
| Asus | Esc / F8 | Del / F2 |
| MSI | F11 | Del |
| Samsung | Esc / F12 | F2 |
| Toshiba | F12 | F2 |
| Microsoft Surface | Hold Volume Up | Power + Volume Up |
Troubleshooting: Boot Menu Not Working in Windows 11
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Boot Menu key not responding? → Try another key (check your brand).
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Fast Boot enabled? → Disable Fast Boot in BIOS for better access.
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USB not detected? → Ensure it’s formatted correctly (FAT32 for UEFI).
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Laptop skips Boot Menu? → Restart and try Shift + Restart method.
Key Takeaways
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Boot Menu lets you choose where Windows boots from.
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Easiest methods: F12 / Esc key during startup or Shift + Restart.
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Use Command Prompt or Run if you’re already inside Windows.
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Different PC brands use different keys — know your manufacturer.
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You can also change the boot order permanently in BIOS.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to access the Boot Menu in Windows 11 using multiple methods. Whether you want to boot from USB, fix startup issues, or reinstall Windows, the Boot Menu gives you the flexibility to control how your system starts.
If you’re unsure which key works for your PC, check our brand-specific Boot Menu keys table and keep it handy for the next time you restart your computer.
FAQs
1. What is the Boot Menu key for Windows 11?
It depends on your PC brand. Common keys: F2, F12, Esc, or Del.
2. Can I open Boot Menu from inside Windows 11?
Yes — use Settings → Recovery → Advanced Startup or the Shift + Restart method.
3. How do I boot from USB in Windows 11?
Open Boot Menu → Select USB drive → Press Enter.
4. Why can’t I access the Boot Menu?
Fast Boot may be enabled, or you may be pressing the wrong key. Disable Fast Boot or try a different key.
5. What’s the difference between Boot Menu and BIOS?
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Boot Menu = temporary boot options (USB, SSD, HDD).
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BIOS/UEFI = system settings, including boot priority, security, and hardware settings.