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How to Access BIOS/UEFI Settings to Configure Your System

Most systems allow access to firmware (BIOS/UEFI) settings during the early startup phase, just after powering on or restarting the computer.

Typically, a message will briefly appear on the screen indicating which key to press (for example, Press DEL to enter Setup or Press F2 for BIOS). This prompt may only be visible for a few seconds, so you may need to watch closely or try more than once.

Standard Method

Power on or restart the system. Immediately begin pressing the appropriate key before the operating system starts loading.

If successful, the system will open the BIOS/UEFI settings screen. On some systems, you may also hear a beep or see a brief keyboard light flash when the system is ready to accept input.

Common Keys by System

  • DEL / Delete – Many desktop motherboards (ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte).
  • F2 – Common on laptops and many OEM systems (Acer, ASUS, Dell).
  • F10 – HP systems.
  • ESC – Often opens a startup menu (HP, some ASUS), then select Setup.
  • F1 – Lenovo systems (sometimes requires pressing Enter first).
  • F12 – Often opens a boot menu (Dell, Lenovo) with an option for Setup.

OEM-Specific Tips

  • Dell: Tap F2 when the Dell logo appears. Holding the key may not work reliably.
  • HP: Tap ESC first to open the Startup Menu, then press F10 for BIOS Setup.
  • Lenovo: Tap F1 (or F2 on some models). Some systems require pressing Enter to interrupt startup before selecting Setup.
  • ASUS: Either tap DEL repeatedly or hold it immediately after power-on (behavior varies by model).
  • Acer: Tap F2. On some models, you may need to enable the F2 prompt in BIOS if it was previously disabled.
  • Gigabyte/MSI (desktops): Tap DEL repeatedly during startup.

Alternative Methods

  • Novo Button (Lenovo laptops): Some Lenovo systems include a small recessed button (often near the power button or on the side). Pressing it while the system is off opens a menu with options such as BIOS Setup and Boot Menu.

Notes

  • The correct key varies by manufacturer and model. The on-screen prompt (if shown) is the most reliable indicator.
  • If the system boots too quickly, try pressing the key repeatedly immediately after powering on.
  • On systems with fast startup enabled, accessing firmware settings may require using advanced restart options from within the operating system. For example, from Windows: Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings

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