How to Open BIOS on Windows 11 on Startup – A Step-by-Step Guide

By / October 3, 2025

Why Access BIOS on Windows 11?

Have you ever wanted to boot from a USB drive, enable virtualization for Docker, or adjust hardware settings? You need to enter BIOS/UEFI first.

Think of BIOS as the control center of your PC hardware — it initializes components like your CPU, RAM, and storage drives before Windows loads.

Knowing how to open BIOS quickly is essential for troubleshooting, upgrading, or configuring your system.

Method 1: Use Startup Key During Boot

Most PCs allow you to enter BIOS using a specific key while the system starts.

Step 1: Identify Your BIOS Key

Common BIOS keys include:

  • Del / Delete → Most desktops

  • F2 → Laptops (HP, Asus, Acer)

  • F10 / Esc / F12 → Some brands, especially HP and Lenovo

Tip: Check your PC manual or manufacturer website for the exact key.

Step 2: Restart Your PC

  • Save all work and restart.

Step 3: Press the BIOS Key Repeatedly

  • As soon as the PC starts, press the BIOS key repeatedly until the BIOS/UEFI screen appears.

  • Timing is critical — if Windows starts loading, restart and try again.

Summary (Key Takeaways)

  • BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI is the firmware that controls your PC’s hardware before Windows loads.

  • Accessing BIOS on Windows 11 is essential for tasks like changing boot order, enabling virtualization, or updating hardware settings.

  • There are multiple ways to open BIOS, including startup keys, advanced startup options, and using Windows Settings.

  • This guide provides step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips, and FAQs.

Method 2: Open BIOS via Windows 11 Advanced Startup

Windows 11 allows access to BIOS without memorizing keys.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Click System → Recovery.

  3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

  4. Your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen.

  5. Select:

    • Troubleshoot → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings → Restart

  6. The PC will boot into BIOS automatically.

💡 Tip: This method works even if your keyboard is unresponsive during startup.

Method 3: Open BIOS from the Sign-In Screen

If you can’t access Windows Settings, you can use the sign-in screen:

  1. On the login screen, click Power → Hold Shift → Restart.

  2. This brings up the Advanced startup menu.

  3. Navigate: Troubleshoot → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings → Restart.

Method 4: Use Command Prompt to Reboot into BIOS

For advanced users who want a one-command solution:

Steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

  2. Type the following command:

    shutdown /r /o /f /t 0

  3. Press Enter.

  4. The PC will restart and enter the Advanced startup menu, from which you can access BIOS using UEFI Firmware Settings.

Understanding BIOS vs UEFI

  • BIOS (Basic Input/Output System): Older firmware interface, simple and text-based.

  • UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface): Modern replacement with graphical interface, mouse support, faster boot, and larger drive support.

  • Most Windows 11 PCs use UEFI, but the steps to access it are similar to traditional BIOS.

Common BIOS Tasks on Windows 11

  • Change boot order → Boot from USB or external drive

  • Enable virtualization → Required for Docker, WSL 2, and virtual machines

  • Update firmware → Improve hardware compatibility and fix bugs

  • Enable or disable Secure Boot → Needed for some Linux installations

  • Configure RAM, CPU, or fan settings → Optimize performance

Troubleshooting: BIOS Access Issues

  • PC boots too fast → Use Advanced startup via Settings or Shift + Restart.

  • Keyboard not responding during boot → Use wired keyboard; some wireless keyboards don’t work in BIOS.

  • No BIOS key working → Check manufacturer documentation; some PCs require a special key combination.

  • Windows 11 not booting after BIOS changes → Reset BIOS to default settings using Load Setup Defaults or jumper on motherboard.

Table: Quick Ways to Access BIOS on Windows 11

Method Steps Best For
Startup key during boot Press Del, F2, F10, Esc, or F12 Fast access
Advanced startup (Settings) Settings → Recovery → Restart now Keyboard/mouse friendly
Sign-in screen Power → Shift + Restart No desktop access
Command Prompt shutdown /r /o /f /t 0 Power users, scriptable

Tips for Safe BIOS Use

  • Always backup important files before changing BIOS settings.

  • Avoid changing settings you don’t understand — incorrect options can prevent Windows from booting.

  • Use BIOS update carefully — follow manufacturer instructions exactly.

  • Keep BIOS version and motherboard documentation handy for reference.

Conclusion

Accessing BIOS on Windows 11 is essential for hardware configuration, booting from USB, enabling virtualization, and troubleshooting. Whether you use the startup key, Advanced startup, sign-in screen, or command-line method, you can safely enter BIOS/UEFI to make necessary changes.

With this guide, you can confidently access BIOS and perform system tweaks while avoiding common pitfalls.

FAQs

1. What key do I press to open BIOS on Windows 11?
Common keys are Del, F2, F10, Esc, or F12, depending on your PC manufacturer.

2. Can I access BIOS from Windows 11 without pressing keys during boot?
Yes, use Advanced startup via Settings or Shift + Restart.

3. What is the difference between BIOS and UEFI?
UEFI is the modern replacement for BIOS with a graphical interface, faster boot, and larger drive support.

4. Can I change boot order in Windows 11 BIOS?
Yes, navigate to the Boot section in BIOS/UEFI to reorder drives or enable USB boot.

5. My PC boots too fast to press BIOS key. What should I do?
Use Advanced startup from Settings or Shift + Restart, or a wired keyboard if using the key method.

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