Understanding "Basic BIOS/UEFI Settings" for Beginners
When you turn on your computer, something starts working even before Windows or Linux loads. This is called the BIOS or UEFI. If you're new to computers, you might have heard these terms but don’t know what they mean or how to use them. In this guide, we’ll explain "basic BIOS/UEFI settings" in simple language, so even beginners can understand and make safe changes.
What is "BIOS and UEFI"?
BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. It is an older type of firmware used to start your computer. UEFI, or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, is the modern replacement for BIOS and comes with more features and better security. Almost all modern computers use UEFI instead of BIOS, but the purpose is the same – to start your computer and check that all hardware is working.
Why Should You Learn BIOS/UEFI Settings?
Learning about "UEFI firmware settings" can help you:
- Change the "boot order in BIOS/UEFI"
- Enable or disable "Secure Boot"
- Install a new operating system
- Fix hardware detection issues
You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to know which settings are safe to change and which ones are not.
How to Enter BIOS or UEFI
To enter the BIOS/UEFI menu, follow these steps:
- Turn off your computer.
- Turn it back on and immediately press a special key like DEL, F2, or ESC.
- You will now see the BIOS/UEFI screen.
Different brands use different keys. Here’s a simple guide:
BIOS and Boot Menu Keys by Brand (2025)
| Brand | BIOS Key | Boot Menu Key |
|---|---|---|
| Acer | F2 | F12 |
| ASUS | F2 or DEL | ESC |
| Dell | F2 | F12 |
| HP | ESC or F10 | ESC or F9 |
| Lenovo | F1 or F2 | F12 |
| MSI | DEL | F11 |
| Gigabyte | DEL | F12 |
| Toshiba | F2 | F12 |
| Samsung | F2 | ESC |
| Sony (VAIO) | F2 or ASSIST button | F11 |
| Fujitsu | F2 | F12 |
| Microsoft Surface | Volume Up (hold) | N/A |
| Intel NUC | F2 | F10 |
| ASRock | F2 or DEL | F11 |
| Zotac | DEL | F8 |
| Origin PC | F2 | F12 |
| Hasee | F2 | ESC |
| Clevo | F2 or DEL | F7 |
| Panasonic | F2 | F12 |
| Alienware | F2 | F12 |
| Medion | F2 | F8 |
| Packard Bell | F2 | F8 |
| eMachines | Tab or DEL | F12 |
| Gateway | F2 | F10 |
| Compaq | F10 | ESC |
| NEC | F2 | F12 |
| Sharp | F2 | F8 |
| Sager | DEL | F7 |
| Xiaomi | F2 | F12 |
| Razer | DEL | F12 |
| Chuwi | DEL | F7 |
| System76 | F2 or DEL | F7 |
Note: Some Lenovo models (like ThinkPads) use a physical Novo button to access BIOS or recovery.
Important "BIOS/UEFI Boot Settings"
Once you are inside, here are some "basic BIOS settings" you may want to explore:
1. Boot Order
This setting decides which device your computer starts from. You can change the boot order to USB, SSD, HDD, or CD/DVD. This is useful when installing a new operating system from a USB.
2. Secure Boot
This is a security feature available in UEFI. When enabled, your system will only boot using software signed by the manufacturer. You might need to disable this if you're installing Linux or another OS. This is one of the most searched topics under "how to disable Secure Boot in UEFI".
3. TPM (Trusted Platform Module)
TPM is required for installing Windows 11. You can usually enable it from BIOS if your system supports it.
4. UEFI vs Legacy Boot Mode
Most new computers use UEFI mode. Legacy mode is for older operating systems or bootable media. Use UEFI for modern systems unless specifically required to change it.
5. Date and Time
Set the correct system date and time here. Incorrect settings can cause boot issues and Windows errors.
Settings You Should Avoid (Unless You Know What You’re Doing)
- CPU Overclocking
- Voltage Control
- BIOS Update (Flashing BIOS)
These advanced settings can damage your system if changed incorrectly. Only experienced users should attempt these changes.
My Experience with BIOS/UEFI
I once built my own desktop PC and had no idea about BIOS. When I installed Windows from a USB, it didn’t detect the drive. After some searching, I learned about changing the "boot priority in BIOS". I entered the UEFI menu by pressing DEL, changed the boot order to USB, and it worked!
Later, when I upgraded to Windows 11, I got an error saying “This PC can’t run Windows 11”. I had to enable TPM and Secure Boot in the UEFI settings. It sounded scary, but the process was simple. From that day, I realized how helpful understanding "basic BIOS/UEFI settings" can be for troubleshooting and upgrades.
Tips for Safe BIOS Navigation
- Only change one setting at a time.
- Write down the default value before changing anything.
- If you make a mistake, reset BIOS settings to default.
- Look for a “Save and Exit” option before restarting.
Conclusion
"BIOS and UEFI settings for beginners" don’t have to be confusing. With a little knowledge, you can safely manage your system and solve many common problems. Remember, always be careful and avoid advanced settings unless you are sure of what you're doing.
If you're building a PC, installing a new OS, or just want better control of your hardware, learning these "basic BIOS/UEFI settings" is a great step forward. Bookmark this guide so you can refer to it whenever you need help.
Did this guide help you? Share your experience in the comments!
