There is no single BIOS key for every Windows 10 PC: the right key depends on the computer’s manufacturer and model. Common documented examples are F2 for Dell and ASUS systems and F1 or F2 for Lenovo systems. If Windows is working, you may also be able to reach UEFI firmware settings through Advanced Startup.
Which key should you press?
Use the key specified for your exact computer model. Manufacturer examples differ: Dell documents F2, ASUS documents F2, and Lenovo says F1 or F2 depending on the machine. These are examples, not universal rules. The setup screen is often called BIOS, though modern PCs commonly use UEFI firmware.
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| Computer maker | Documented startup method | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Dell | Tap F2 several times when the Dell logo appears. | Dell Support |
| ASUS | Hold F2 until the BIOS configuration screen appears; the procedure is for Windows 10 and 11. | ASUS Support |
| Lenovo | Press F1 or F2, depending on model. Some systems require holding Fn while pressing the function key. | Lenovo Support |
For other makers—or if these examples do not work—check the official support page or manual for the exact model. Lenovo’s product guide, for example, specifies F2 or Fn+F2 for one particular model, illustrating why model-specific directions matter: Lenovo product guide.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteHow to enter firmware setup with a startup key
- Find the startup key for your exact computer model in its manufacturer’s support information or manual.
- Shut down or restart the computer.
- As soon as the manufacturer’s logo appears, tap the documented key. For Dell, tap F2 several times; ASUS says to hold F2 until its BIOS configuration screen appears. On some Lenovo models, use Fn with F1 or F2.
- If Windows starts instead, restart and try again promptly when the logo appears. If the key still fails, confirm the model’s instructions rather than cycling through guessed keys.
How to open UEFI settings from Windows 10
If Windows is available, use Advanced Startup to request a restart into firmware settings. The menu is documented for supported Dell computers; Windows’ recovery instructions describe the UEFI route as well, but the option is not available on every PC.
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- Open Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Under Advanced startup, select Restart now.
- On the recovery screen, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart.
Microsoft notes that UEFI/BIOS screens vary by PC manufacturer. See Microsoft Support’s Windows recovery and firmware guidance for the Windows route. Dell also notes that some of its computers may not support this handoff: Dell’s Windows 10 and 11 instructions.
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If neither method works
- Windows starts normally: The key may have been pressed too late. Restart and begin tapping it as soon as the logo appears, following the model’s instructions.
- The key does nothing: Check whether the manufacturer specifies Fn plus the function key, as Lenovo does for some systems.
- UEFI Firmware Settings is missing: The Windows handoff may not be supported or exposed on that computer. Use the manufacturer’s exact-model startup instructions.
- You are unsure which key applies: Identify the PC’s maker and model, then consult its official support page or manual; a maker-level example may not cover every model.
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