I'm unable to open the BIOS on my PC because it boots straight to the login screen. I've tried pressing every function key and Delete during startup, using Advanced Startup to access UEFI firmware settings, and running `shutdown /r /fw /t 0` from an elevated Command Prompt, but none of these methods work. What else can I try?
3 Answers
Try plugging the keyboard into a USB 2.0 port instead of a USB 3.x port, then start tapping F2 or Delete immediately after powering on. It can help to begin pressing the key before anything appears on the display.
Windows Advanced Startup should normally offer Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings. The `shutdown /r /fw /t 0` command is another valid way to request a firmware reboot, but if both methods fail, the issue may be related to the keyboard being detected too late or the system not displaying the firmware screen correctly.
I tried both of those options already, but neither one opened the firmware settings.
Display initialization can sometimes hide the BIOS screen, especially when using DisplayPort or multiple monitors. Try connecting only one monitor with HDMI, disconnect the other displays, and use a basic wired keyboard. You can also disconnect unnecessary USB devices while testing.
I haven’t tried switching to HDMI and removing the other devices yet, so I’ll test that next.
I tried that approach, but I’m still getting sent straight to Windows.