Getting into BIOS isn’t at all hard, but it can be tricky on some systems. Check out our extensive list of tips at the bottom of the page if you’re struggling after giving it a shot.
Tips & More Information About Entering BIOS
Entering BIOS can be tricky, so here’s some more help based on some common scenarios that we’ve seen: Here are some common ways you might see this BIOS access message:
Press [key] to enter setupSetup: [key]Enter BIOS by pressing [key]Press [key] to enter BIOS setupPress [key] to access BIOSPress [key] to access system configuration
If you don’t catch the key sequence needed to get into BIOS, reference one of these lists or check out the tips below:
BIOS Setup Utility Access Keys for Popular Computer Systems BIOS Setup Utility Access Keys for Popular Motherboards BIOS Setup Utility Access Keys for Major BIOS Manufacturers
That might mean managing memory settings, configuring a new hard drive, changing the boot order, resetting the BIOS password, or other tasks.
There’s a Picture Instead of a Message
Your computer may be configured to show your computer’s logo instead of important BIOS messages. Press Esc or Tab while the logo is showing to remove it.
You Didn’t Catch Which Key to Press
Some computers start too quickly to see the BIOS access message. If this happens, press the Pause/Break key on your keyboard to freeze the screen during startup. Press any key to “unpause” your computer and continue booting.
Trouble Pausing the Startup Screen
If you’re having problems pressing that pause button in time, turn on your computer with your keyboard unplugged. You should receive a keyboard error which will pause the startup process long enough for you to see the keys necessary to enter BIOS!
Using a USB Keyboard on an Older Computer
Some PCs with both PS/2 and USB connections are configured to only allow USB input after the POST. This means that if you’re using a USB keyboard, it could be impossible to access BIOS. In that case, you’d need to connect an older PS/2 keyboard to your PC to access BIOS.
