Accessing your laptop's BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is crucial for tasks like changing boot order, updating firmware, or troubleshooting hardware. The most common methods involve pressing a specific key during startup or using Windows' advanced startup options.

Common BIOS Hotkeys by Laptop Brand

The key you need to press to enter BIOS varies by manufacturer. It's often displayed briefly on the screen during the initial startup process, but it can be very quick. Here are some of the most common keys:

  • Acer: F2 or Delete
  • ASUS: F2 or Delete (some models may use F9 or Esc)
  • Dell: F2 or F12
  • HP: Esc or F10
  • Lenovo: F2 or Fn + F2 (for consumer laptops), F1 (for desktops), or Enter then F1 (for ThinkPads). Some Lenovo models also have a "Novo button" (a small pinhole button) that can be pressed while the laptop is off to access a boot menu, which includes BIOS Setup.
  • MSI: Delete
  • Samsung: F2
  • Sony VAIO: F1, F2, or F3
  • Toshiba: F2 or Esc

Tip: If you're unsure, try pressing one of these keys repeatedly as soon as you power on your laptop until the BIOS setup utility appears.

Accessing BIOS Through Windows Advanced Startup

If your laptop boots too quickly and you can't hit the BIOS key in time, Windows provides an alternative method to access UEFI Firmware Settings (which is essentially your BIOS):

  1. Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and select Settings (the gear icon).
  2. Navigate to Recovery:
    • Windows 10: Go to Update & Security > Recovery.
    • Windows 11: Go to System > Recovery.
  3. Advanced Startup: Under the "Advanced startup" section, click Restart now.
  4. Troubleshoot: Your computer will restart to a blue screen with several options. Select Troubleshoot.
  5. Advanced Options: Click Advanced options.
  6. UEFI Firmware Settings: Select UEFI Firmware Settings.
  7. Restart: Click Restart to reboot your computer directly into the BIOS/UEFI utility.

Additional Tips

  • Fast Startup: If you're having trouble accessing BIOS via hotkeys, it might be due to Windows' "Fast Startup" feature. Disabling this in Power Options (Control Panel) can give you more time to press the BIOS key during boot.
  • External Keyboard: In some rare cases, if your laptop's built-in keyboard isn't registering the key press, trying an external USB keyboard might help.
  • Manufacturer Manual: Always consult your laptop's specific user manual or the manufacturer's support website for the most accurate and detailed instructions for your model.