How to Turn On Secure Boot in Windows 11 on an ASUS Device

By / September 19, 2025

Summary of Key Takeaways

  • Secure Boot is required for Windows 11 installation and security features.

  • You can enable it from the ASUS UEFI BIOS.

  • Steps include: accessing BIOS, switching Boot Mode from Legacy to UEFI, and enabling Secure Boot.

  • Common errors include “Secure Boot not supported” or “Secure Boot greyed out.”

  • With proper settings, Secure Boot improves security against malware and bootkit attacks.

Introduction: Why Secure Boot Matters in Windows 11

Are you trying to upgrade or install Windows 11 on your ASUS laptop or desktop, only to see the dreaded “Secure Boot must be enabled” message? You’re not alone.

Windows 11 requires both TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot to ensure modern security standards. While TPM protects encryption keys, Secure Boot stops malicious bootloaders and rootkits from hijacking your system before Windows starts.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to turn on Secure Boot in Windows 11 on an ASUS device — step by step, with beginner-friendly explanations. Whether you have a gaming laptop like the ASUS ROG series, a VivoBook, or a standard desktop motherboard, the process is nearly the same.

What Is Secure Boot in Windows 11?

Secure Boot is a UEFI firmware feature that ensures only trusted software (signed by Microsoft or OEMs) can load during the boot process.

Think of it like a bouncer at a club — only guests with the right signature can get in. Without Secure Boot, malware could sneak in before Windows even starts.

Why Do You Need Secure Boot for Windows 11?

Microsoft made Secure Boot mandatory for Windows 11 installation. Here’s why:

  • ✅ Protects from malware and rootkits before Windows starts.

  • ✅ Prevents unauthorized OS loaders from running.

  • ✅ Ensures compatibility with Windows 11 system requirements.

  • ✅ Keeps BitLocker and Windows Defender running at full strength.

If Secure Boot is disabled, you might not even be able to install Windows 11 or receive certain security features.

How to Check If Secure Boot Is Enabled in Windows 11

Before diving into BIOS settings, let’s quickly check if Secure Boot is already enabled.

Method 1: Using System Information

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run.

  2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter.

  3. Look for Secure Boot State.

    • If it says On → You’re good to go.

    • If it says Off → You need to enable it.

    • If it says Unsupported → Your device may not support Secure Boot.

Method 2: Using Windows Security

  1. Open Windows Security from the Start Menu.

  2. Go to Device Security > Secure Boot.

  3. Review the status.

How to Turn On Secure Boot in Windows 11 on an ASUS Device (Step-by-Step)

Here’s the full step-by-step process:

Step 1: Restart and Enter ASUS BIOS

  1. Save your work and restart your computer.

  2. While it boots, press F2 (or sometimes Del) repeatedly.

  3. You’ll enter the ASUS UEFI BIOS Utility screen.

💡 Tip: If you miss it, restart and try again.

Step 2: Switch Boot Mode to UEFI

Secure Boot only works in UEFI mode, not Legacy BIOS.

  1. In BIOS, go to the Boot tab.

  2. Find Boot Mode / CSM (Compatibility Support Module).

  3. Set Launch CSM to Disabled.

  4. Ensure Boot Mode is set to UEFI.

Step 3: Navigate to Secure Boot Settings

  1. From the BIOS top menu, select the Boot tab.

  2. Find Secure Boot.

  3. Click to open settings.

Step 4: Enable Secure Boot

  1. Set OS Type to Windows UEFI mode.

  2. Set Secure Boot State to Enabled.

  3. If asked to install default keys, choose Install Default Secure Boot Keys.

Step 5: Save and Exit BIOS

  1. Press F10 to Save & Exit.

  2. Confirm changes.

  3. Your PC will restart with Secure Boot enabled.

Common Issues When Enabling Secure Boot on ASUS Devices

Even after following the steps, you might face issues. Let’s fix them.

Issue 1: Secure Boot Option Greyed Out

  • Make sure CSM is disabled.

  • Switch to UEFI boot mode.

  • Update your ASUS BIOS firmware if needed.

Issue 2: “Secure Boot Not Supported” Error

  • Your system may be too old.

  • Check if your motherboard supports UEFI (not just Legacy BIOS).

Issue 3: Windows Won’t Boot After Enabling Secure Boot

  • Switch back to BIOS and disable Secure Boot temporarily.

  • Recheck whether your Windows installation is UEFI-based.

  • If installed in Legacy mode, you may need to convert MBR to GPT (using MBR2GPT tool).

How to Convert MBR to GPT for Secure Boot (If Needed)

Secure Boot requires GPT partitioning. If your disk is MBR, here’s how to convert it safely.

  1. Press Windows + X, open Command Prompt (Admin).

  2. Type:

    mbr2gpt /validate /allowFullOS
    mbr2gpt /convert /allowFullOS

  3. Restart and switch BIOS to UEFI mode.

Secure Boot Settings in ASUS Advanced Mode

ASUS BIOS has two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.

  • In EZ Mode, Secure Boot might not appear. Press F7 to enter Advanced Mode.

  • Navigate to: Boot > Secure Boot > OS Type.

  • Choose Windows UEFI mode.

Benefits of Keeping Secure Boot Enabled

Still wondering if you should keep it on? Here’s why:

  • 🛡️ Stops boot-level malware.

  • 🔑 Works with BitLocker drive encryption.

  • 💻 Keeps system stable during updates.

  • 🧩 Ensures driver and firmware integrity.

When Should You Disable Secure Boot?

While Secure Boot is useful, there are rare cases you may need to disable it:

  • Installing Linux distributions without signed bootloaders.

  • Running older hardware or OS versions.

  • Using special GPU drivers or unsigned firmware.

If you disable it, enable it back after finishing your task.

Quick Comparison: Secure Boot ON vs OFF

Feature Secure Boot ON Secure Boot OFF
Malware Protection ✅ Yes ❌ No
Windows 11 Support ✅ Required ❌ Limited
Boot Speed ⚡ Fast ⚡ Fast
Compatibility Limited (only signed OS) Wide (any OS)

Tips for ASUS Users Enabling Secure Boot

  • Always update your BIOS before enabling Secure Boot.

  • Use UEFI USB bootable drives for reinstalling Windows.

  • Don’t panic if you see black screens — just recheck BIOS settings.

Conclusion

Enabling Secure Boot in Windows 11 on your ASUS device is not as intimidating as it sounds. By:

  1. Entering BIOS,

  2. Disabling CSM,

  3. Switching to UEFI mode,

  4. Enabling Secure Boot,

…you unlock stronger system security and meet Windows 11’s requirements.

Think of it as adding an extra lock on your digital front door — simple, effective, and essential.

FAQs: How to Turn On Secure Boot in Windows 11 on an ASUS Device

1. Can I enable Secure Boot without reinstalling Windows?
Yes, as long as your Windows is installed in UEFI mode with GPT partitioning.

2. Why is Secure Boot greyed out on my ASUS laptop?
It usually means CSM is enabled. Disable it first.

3. Does Secure Boot affect gaming performance?
No, it doesn’t slow down or affect FPS in games.

4. Can I dual boot Linux with Secure Boot enabled?
Yes, but only distributions that support signed bootloaders (like Ubuntu).

5. What if I don’t enable Secure Boot in Windows 11?
You may face compatibility issues, security risks, and possibly fail Windows 11 updates.

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