Getting into BIOS on Windows 11 might seem a bit weird, especially since Microsoft made things kinda confusing with the way they handle firmware settings these days. You’ll need to restart your PC and interrupt the normal boot process to hit the BIOS, but the steps aren’t always straightforward—sometimes it’s F2, other times Del, or maybe Esc depending on the brand. It’s frustrating because every manufacturer seems to have their own little quirks, and Windows 11 has added extra layers of complexity. But if you need to change boot order, enable virtualization, or troubleshoot hardware stuff, this guide should help you figure it out without too much fuss. Just be aware that making tweaks without knowing what you’re doing could mess things up, so proceed with caution.
How to Run BIOS on Windows 11
Basically, the goal here is to restart your PC into the BIOS or UEFI firmware settings menu. Windows 11 changed the game a bit by making it easier through the Settings app, but often the faster way is via the advanced startup. The main idea is: restart your PC into the special environment that lets you tweak hardware options, not a typical Windows login screen. When it works, you’ll be looking at options like changing boot order, enabling TPM, or toggling virtualization technology. If you’ve had weird boot issues or new hardware requirements, this is probably the route you want to take.
Method 1: Using Advanced Startup from Windows
This method applies if you’re comfortable with Windows settings and just want to get into BIOS fast. It’s less risky than trying to mash keys during startup, but sometimes it doesn’t work if your system’s fast boot is too quick to catch the BIOS prompt. On some setups, it fails the first time, then works after a reboot. Worth a shot because it’s cleaner and less likely to cause surprises.
- Click on Start or press the Windows icon.
- Hold Shift and click Restart from the Power menu. To find this: Start > Power > Restart while holding Shift.
- Once rebooted, you’ll see a screen with options. Pick Troubleshoot.
- Inside there, select Advanced options.
- Now click on UEFI Firmware Settings and then hit Restart.
This second restart will immediately launch the BIOS or UEFI setup screen. Expect to see the main firmware menu pop up—here you can make all the usual tweaks like boot order, enabling virtualization, or hardware security features. Keep in mind—once inside you’re operating outside Windows, so be careful with what you toggle.
Method 2: Using a Keyboard Shortcut During Boot
If you prefer doing it the old-school way or your system’s Windows route isn’t cooperating, trying the key press during startup can work. Usually, you mash the right key right after pressing the power button—common ones are F2, Delete, Esc, or F10 depending on your motherboard or laptop brand. It’s kinda hit or miss, especially with fast-boot enabled, which skips the delay and makes it hard to press the key in time.
Here’s what to do:
- Reboot your PC.
- As soon as the screen goes black or Windows logo appears, repeatedly press the BIOS entry key for your device. If you’re not sure, Google “[your device/model] BIOS key”.
- If timed right, you should see the BIOS menu or UEFI setup screen appear before Windows loads. If not, try again, maybe with a different key or after disabling fast boot temporarily in Windows.
On some machines, this method isn’t reliable because of Windows’ fast startup options—sometimes it skips the BIOS entry entirely. To fix that, you can disable fast startup in Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable, then uncheck Turn on fast start-up.
Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
Tips to get into BIOS smoothly
- Know your key: Brands like Dell, ASUS, HP, Lenovo all have their own favorite keys—check online if you’re not sure. Usually, during startup, the screen might flash “Press F2 to enter setup” or similar.
- Be cautious: Changing settings blindly can brick your system (“bricking” is when your PC refuses to boot).Only mess with stuff you know or have researched.
- Update your BIOS: It’s worth checking if your motherboard or laptop has an updated BIOS version, because newer BIOS/UEFI firmwares can fix bugs or add features. Usually you do this by downloading from the manufacturer’s support site.
- Backup first: If you’re about to make big changes like enabling TPM or Secure Boot, maybe back up critical files—better safe than sorry, especially if you’re new to this territory.
- Revert if needed: If stuff gets wonky after changes, just restart and reset BIOS to defaults or load optimized settings.
FAQs
Can I jump into BIOS without restarting?
Not really. BIOS lives outside of Windows, so a restart is the only way in most cases. That said, some laptops have BIOS access apps, but they’re usually just for previewing info, not full setup.
What exactly is BIOS anyway?
It’s the firmware that runs before Windows even boots up. Manages low-level hardware stuff—like the motherboard, RAM, disks, and CPU. Modern systems usually call it UEFI, which is just a more graphical, faster version of BIOS.
What if I can’t get into BIOS at all?
Double-check you’re pressing the right key at the right time. If your system boots too fast, try disabling fast boot or delay startup temporarily. If all else fails, look up your specific brand/model’s instructions online.
Will BIOS updates improve my system?
Potentially. They can fix bugs, improve stability, or add support for new hardware. Just be aware that flashing BIOS always carries some risk, so don’t do it unless necessary—and follow instructions carefully.
Is BIOS the same as UEFI?
Pretty close. UEFI is the newer standard, with prettier menus and more features, but most folks still call it BIOS for simplicity. In Windows 11, you’ll be dealing mostly with UEFI setups now.
Summary
- Use the advanced restart method via Windows for a stateless entry.
- Try pressing the BIOS key during startup if Windows methods fail.
- Be careful with settings—don’t mess up your system.
- Update BIOS firmware when possible for best stability.
Wrap-up
Getting into BIOS or UEFI isn’t as scary as it looks once you understand the window of opportunity—either through Windows or timing the key press right during boot. It’s super useful for troubleshooting, hardware tweaks, or enabling features that Windows doesn’t handle by default. Not always foolproof, but with a little patience, it’s totally doable. Just remember, messing in there means you’re tweaking critical settings, so proceed carefully and back up if you’re about to make big changes.
Hopefully, this shaves off a few hours for someone messing around trying to get into BIOS for the first time. Good luck!