There are times when users run out of power and resort to BIOS reset to fix their computer.

BIOS may be damaged due to failed update or malware. Learning how to reset BIOS is an essential step in troubleshooting your PC.

What is BIOS?

BIOS stands for Basic Input Output System. Every motherboard comes with a BIOS. This software allows users to control their computers at the hardware level before the operating system boots and perform computer diagnostics.

Usually, you only need to enter BIOS setup to change the boot order or adjust device settings. It also provides a list of installed hardware such as hard drive, processor, and RAM.

The BIOS may have a different name depending on the operating system you are using. For example, Mac computers run something called Open Firmware or EFI and can be accessed by restarting and holding down the CMD + Option + O + F keys.

What is UEFI?

Newer computers have replaced BIOS with UEFI or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface. UEFI is faster and has better security features than BIOS. However, most users often use both terms interchangeably.

Laptop BIOS vs Desktop BIOS: Is There a Difference?

The process should be the same whether you enter BIOS on a laptop or computer. But please note that there are times when users lock their BIOS completely. This will require opening your PC case, which could void your warranty. In such cases, it is best to leave it to a professional technician.

It doesn’t matter if you are using Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 10. All modern motherboards have a built-in BIOS.

Access to the BIOS

BIOS access will depend on your motherboard. There is no real standard set, so manufacturers usually assign different keys. However, no matter what brand you have, entering BIOS starts by restarting your PC.

As the computer boots, press the key several times that enters you into the BIOS. The boot screen sometimes leaves hints about which button or keys to press. Most computers use the F2 key, but some laptops use DEL or F8 instead. Press the right button enough times and the computer will load your BIOS settings.

Windows 10 users can also access BIOS using the Shift + Restart method. Go to Start> Power. Hold down the Shift key and click Restart. A blue window will open with several troubleshooting options.

From here, go to Troubleshoot> Advanced options> UEFI Firmware Settings. Click the Restart button to continue.

The computer will reboot, but will enter the BIOS at the end instead of opening the login screen.

Reset BIOS

First, if you are unable to enter BIOS due to password, be sure to read our article on How to Reset BIOS Password.

Once you enter the BIOS, you can try pressing the F9 or F5 keys to trigger the “Load defaults” prompt. Clicking Yes will be enough to restore the default settings. This key may differ depending on your BIOS, but it usually appears at the bottom of the screen.

You can also reset BIOS from the Security tab. Different motherboards have different menu items, but there will be one that will reset your BIOS.

Remember to save and exit when done. Finally, if it is not on the Security tab or you simply do not have it, the last option is to click on the Logout link.

Before exiting, you will see several different options: undo and restart, save settings and restart, load defaults, etc.

In my case, these were the default settings optimized for loading. If you choose this option, the BIOS will be reset to defaults and rebooted.

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