What is BIOS?

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware stored on the motherboard that starts your computer and initializes hardware before loading the operating system.

On newer systems, BIOS is technically replaced by UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface), but people still commonly call it “BIOS”.

Method 1: Enter BIOS Using Keyboard

The most common way to access BIOS.

01

Shut Down

Completely shut down your PC or laptop.

02

Power On

Press the Power button to turn it on.

03

Tap Key

Immediately start pressing the BIOS key repeatedly (don’t hold, tap continuously).

04

Success

The BIOS screen regarding your system will open.

Common BIOS Keys by Brand

Brand BIOS Key
Dell F2
HP F10 / Esc
Lenovo F2 / Fn+F2
Asus F2 / Del
Acer F2
MSI Del
Gigabyte Del

Method 2: Enter from Windows

If your PC boots too fast (Fast Boot enabled), use this method.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to System → Recovery.
  3. Click Restart Now (under Advanced Startup).
  4. Choose: Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → UEFI Firmware Settings.
  5. Click Restart. The system will direct you to BIOS.

Laptop Specifics

Some laptops have special buttons:

  • Lenovo: Novo Button (small pinhole near power).
  • HP: May use Esc first, then F10.
  • Sony: Assist button.

BIOS Not Opening?

  • Are you pressing the correct key?
  • Are you tapping immediately after power ON?
  • Is Fast Boot enabled? (Use Method 2)
  • Try an external keyboard if on laptop.

Quick Version

To Enter BIOS:

  1. Shut down PC
  2. Power ON
  3. Press F2 / Del repeatedly

If that fails:

Settings → Recovery → Advanced Startup → UEFI Firmware Settings