I'm trying to change some BIOS settings for VALORANT, including Secure Boot, but none of the changes remain after I exit and restart the computer. I also recently tried booting Linux Mint Cinnamon from a flash drive, but the drive disconnected partway through because it is unreliable. I don't currently have another flash drive available to update the motherboard firmware. What could prevent BIOS settings from being saved, and how can I fix this?
1 Answer
First, make sure you’re using the BIOS option labeled “Save Changes and Exit” rather than simply choosing “Exit” or pressing the power button. Some BIOS menus also require confirming the changes in a separate prompt. If the settings still reset, check whether the system clock also loses its date and time; that can point to a weak CMOS battery. You could also load the BIOS defaults, save them, reboot, and then try changing Secure Boot again.
A dead CMOS battery isn’t guaranteed just because an older motherboard still works with its original battery, but the clock resetting is a much better indicator. If the clock stays correct, I’d first suspect the save process or a BIOS setting that is preventing the change.