How-To Guides

The Various PC Brands and the Keys Used to Enter their BIOS Setups

by

Entering BIOS setups refers to accessing the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) interface on a computer. The BIOS is a firmware interface that initializes hardware components during the boot process and provides low-level system configuration options.

Accessing the BIOS setup allows users to configure various settings related to hardware components such as the CPU, memory, storage devices, and peripherals. Common configurations include adjusting boot order, enabling or disabling hardware components, overclocking CPU settings, and setting up security features like passwords.

To enter BIOS setups, users typically need to press a specific key or key combination during the early stages of the computer’s boot process. The exact key or combination varies depending on the computer’s manufacturer and model. Common keys for accessing BIOS setups include Del, F2, F10, Esc, and F1, among others.

Once inside the BIOS setup, users navigate through various menus using the keyboard to make changes or adjustments to system settings. It’s important to exercise caution when making changes in the BIOS, as incorrect settings can potentially cause system instability or even damage hardware components. Users should refer to their computer’s documentation or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions on accessing and using the BIOS setup.

Here’s a list of various computer brands along with the keys commonly used to enter their BIOS setups:

  1. Dell:
    • Key: F2 or Del
  2. HP (Hewlett-Packard):
    • Key: Esc, F10, or F1
  3. Lenovo:
    • Key: F1, F2, or Enter
  4. Acer:
    • Key: F2 or Del
  5. Asus:
    • Key: Del or F2
  6. Toshiba:
    • Key: F2
  7. Sony:
    • Key: F1, F2, or Del
  8. Samsung:
    • Key: F2
  9. MSI (Micro-Star International):
    • Key: Del or F2
  10. Gateway:
    • Key: F1 or F2
  11. Fujitsu:
    • Key: F2
  12. Gigabyte:
    • Key: Del or F2
  13. IBM:
    • Key: F1 or F2
  14. Panasonic:
    • Key: F2
  15. Microsoft Surface:
    • Key: Volume Up button
  16. Alienware:
    • Key: F2 or Del
  17. CyberPowerPC:
    • Key: Del
  18. Apple Macintosh:
    • Key: Command + Option + P + R (for older Macs) or Command + Option + R + P (for newer Macs)

Read Also: Essential Photoshop Shortcut Keys for Mac and Windows

Remember, these keys might vary slightly depending on the model and BIOS version of your computer. Additionally, some newer computers may use UEFI firmware instead of traditional BIOS, which may have different methods for accessing setup menus. Always refer to your computer’s manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.