DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsClean PCRecommendedOne scan can reveal what keeps slowing WindowsLook for cleanup and repair opportunities.Run Scan×
Skip to content
World desk4 min

BIOS Reset: Fix Setup Problems with Defaults or Clear CMOS

Restore BIOS/UEFI defaults from setup when possible. If you need to clear CMOS, use the exact procedure for your motherboard and revision.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

If your computer starts misbehaving after a BIOS/UEFI setting change, restore setup defaults first if you can still enter setup. If you cannot, a motherboard-specific Clear CMOS procedure can reset stored setup values. The right button, pins, and timing depend on the exact motherboard model and revision; follow its manual rather than assuming one sequence fits every board.

What a BIOS reset changes—and what it does not

A BIOS/UEFI setup reset returns stored configuration values to defaults. Clearing CMOS or RTC settings is a hardware-level way to prompt that reset. Depending on the board, this can undo problematic CPU, memory, or other setup choices that interfere with startup. It is not a universal fix for every no-boot or display problem.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Resetting setup values is also different from reinstalling or recovering BIOS firmware. If a fault began after a BIOS update, clearing CMOS may not be enough; firmware recovery is a separate manufacturer-directed procedure.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choose the least invasive reset method

Method Use it when What to check
Load defaults in setup The computer can enter BIOS/UEFI setup. Find the model’s “Load Optimized Defaults” or equivalent command, then save and restart. Keyboard shortcuts differ by model.
Clear CMOS button or header You cannot reach setup, or the manual directs you to use the board’s reset control. Confirm the exact button or pins, required power state, and timing in the motherboard manual.
Remove and reinstall the battery The manual supports this method and the board has a removable battery. Check battery type, removal and wait instructions, polarity, and whether the manual also requires using a Clear CMOS control.

How to restore defaults from BIOS/UEFI setup

  1. Restart the computer and enter BIOS/UEFI setup using the key or method specified for your motherboard or computer.
  2. Choose “Load Optimized Defaults” or the equivalent option. ASUS describes using F5 to load defaults in its guidance, but that shortcut is not universal.
  3. Save the changes and restart. ASUS describes F10 for saving; use the save command shown by your own setup screen if it differs.

How to clear CMOS when setup is unavailable

Before opening or touching the motherboard

Shut down the computer and disconnect its AC power cord before using a board reset control or opening the system to remove a battery. Identify the motherboard’s exact model and revision, then find its manual and follow the documented procedure. Intel’s guidance stresses that jumper location, position, and wait time vary by motherboard; ASUS likewise gives instructions for its own button and CLRTC-pin examples, not a universal sequence.

#1 Best Overall
LeFix CMOS Battery for Intel NUC and AsRock AM1H-ITX Motherboard - Laptop Backup BIOS RTC 3V CR 2032 Battery Connector (Reverse Polarity)
  • Please check the 4th image.It clearly demonstrates the connector detail,2 pins and 2 wires with REVERSE polarity.
  • The core component is CR2032,with thickness of 3.2mm and diameter of 20mm
  • The core component was produced by Japanese battery giant,which assure the quality of RTC( real time clock) battery and a long life span
  • The professional packaging solution,anti-static bag, provides the sufficient protection on the cmos batteries.
  • The sticky pad on the other side of CMOS battery provides the flexible application when you replace the CMOS battery.Easily peel off the paper backing and replace it with convenience.

Use the documented button or jumper/header

  1. Check the manual for the Clear CMOS button or header location and the required system state. Do not guess which pins to bridge or move a jumper to an assumed position.
  2. With the system shut down and AC power disconnected, use the specified control exactly as directed. ASUS’s general guide specifies about 5–10 seconds for its described button/header examples; use that interval only if it applies to your board’s documented procedure.
  3. Restore the jumper or other control to its normal position if the manual instructs you to do so, then reconnect power and start the computer.

Remove a battery only if the manual supports it

Board designs differ. Intel’s general battery instructions say to disconnect AC, remove the battery, wait 1–5 minutes, and reinstall it. ASUS notes that its documented battery method may also require using the board’s Clear CMOS control. Follow your own manual if its steps or timing differ, and preserve the polarity shown for reinsertion. Some boards use a wired battery rather than a removable coin cell, so do not assume every board takes a coin cell.

ASUS identifies a CR2032 3V cell for the holder-based replacement instructions in its battery guide. That type is relevant only if the installed battery is depleted and your motherboard uses that battery and holder; confirm compatibility in the board manual before replacing it.

Rank #2
LeFix 2 Pins 2 Wires BIOS CMOS Battery for DELL(D830 E6530 N4050 E7270 .) HP(CQ41 8440p G4.) ASUS(S56 X611.) Samsung(R467 R458) Backup Reserve Button Cell Batteries (Regular Polarity)
  • We use high quality battery,manufactured by Japanese battery giant to produce the CMOS battery.
  • The battery comes with a standard connector,MOLEX 51021-0200 1.25mm Pitch connector.Please check the polarity of connector on 4th images and the compatibility on the description page
  • Connector:2 pins and 2 wires;Red(+,Posive),Black(-,Negative)
  • The professional anti-static packaging bag provides the safe protection on the battery product. Please refer to the last image
  • Each item is tested before shipping.what you see is what you get.

What to do after the reset

Start the computer and enter setup if prompted. CMOS settings include the system clock/date and configuration parameters; ASUS and Intel both advise restoring the date and time after clearing CMOS. Load optimized defaults if the setup screen asks you to, then save changes. Any settings you previously customized may also need to be configured again.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

If the computer still will not boot—or a password remains

Boot trouble continues

A clear can correct a misconfiguration, but it does not establish that a failing component, firmware problem, or other startup fault has been repaired. Intel advises looking at BIOS recovery when clearing CMOS does not resolve a no-boot condition after a BIOS update. Use the recovery instructions for your exact motherboard or computer; recovery is not the same operation as resetting setup values.

Rank #3
QLQXQTy 3V 2032 CMOS Battery with Wire Leads and MOLEX Connector 5PACK
  • Voltage: 3V; Capacity: Diameter: 20.5mm, Height: 6.5mm. Connector: CR2032-MX51021.
  • These batteries cannot be charged, it is very dangerous to charge them. Please keep out of reach of children. Do NOT SWALLOW.
  • Suitable for Computer Replacement Battery
  • No leak, excellent cost performance and long cycle life. Keep the cells in 40%-60% charged state during long period storage. We recommend to charge the battery every 3 months after receipt of the battery and maintain the voltage, and store the battery in a cool and dry place. Please keep out of reach of children.
  • Suitable for M11x R1 R2 Area-51 13 15 17 18 R2 R3 R4 M14x R1 R2 M17x M18x R2 Area-51 M9700 M9750 E6520, E6420, E6320, XFR E6420, ATG E6420, E5530, E6230, E5430, E6530, E6430

A BIOS password remains

Do not assume a CMOS clear will remove a BIOS password. MSI says the result depends on an option selected when the password was configured; if its password persists after the documented clear procedure, MSI directs users to contact its service team. Other manufacturers may have different policies and procedures, so consult the maker of your system or motherboard.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
LeFix CMOS Battery for Intel NUC and AsRock AM1H-ITX Motherboard - Laptop Backup BIOS RTC 3V CR 2032 Battery Connector (Reverse Polarity)
LeFix CMOS Battery for Intel NUC and AsRock AM1H-ITX Motherboard - Laptop Backup BIOS RTC 3V CR 2032 Battery Connector (Reverse Polarity)
The core component is CR2032,with thickness of 3.2mm and diameter of 20mm; What you see is what you get.Please shop with confidence.
$6.49
Bestseller No. 2
LeFix 2 Pins 2 Wires BIOS CMOS Battery for DELL(D830 E6530 N4050 E7270 .) HP(CQ41 8440p G4.) ASUS(S56 X611.) Samsung(R467 R458) Backup Reserve Button Cell Batteries (Regular Polarity)
LeFix 2 Pins 2 Wires BIOS CMOS Battery for DELL(D830 E6530 N4050 E7270 .) HP(CQ41 8440p G4.) ASUS(S56 X611.) Samsung(R467 R458) Backup Reserve Button Cell Batteries (Regular Polarity)
Connector:2 pins and 2 wires;Red(+,Posive),Black(-,Negative); Each item is tested before shipping.what you see is what you get.
$6.49
Bestseller No. 3
QLQXQTy 3V 2032 CMOS Battery with Wire Leads and MOLEX Connector 5PACK
QLQXQTy 3V 2032 CMOS Battery with Wire Leads and MOLEX Connector 5PACK
Voltage: 3V; Capacity: Diameter: 20.5mm, Height: 6.5mm. Connector: CR2032-MX51021.; Suitable for Computer Replacement Battery
$9.99
Rank #4
Rome Tech CR2032 CMOS Battery for Dell Latitude 6430u, 7300, 7430, 7490
  • Rome Tech BIOS DELL CMOS battery best suits to replace your broken or non-working old battery - we provide premium quality only
  • COMPATIBLE with Dell Latitude 6430u / Dell Latitude 7300 / Dell Latitude 7430 / Dell Latitude 7490 / Dell Latitude E5470 / Dell Latitude E7240 Ultrabook
  • Enjoy extended reliability of the CR2032 battery and heat shrink of a high caliber - the CMOS Battery DELL Latitude will last you for a long time
  • The size of the entire unit is extremely small - will fit in almost any electronic device requires 3V Battery connector with 2 pins and 2 wires
  • Quick and simple CMOS battery for DELL Latitude installation takes only 10 minutes of your time. Try our customer service for resolving any issues during battery replacement

Manufacturer instructions

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Wire

  1. World desk4 min
    How to Spot an AI Voice Scam Before Sending MoneyDon’t rely on how a caller sounds. Pause, call back through a known number, and verify the emergency with another trusted person before sending money.
  2. Mountain View desk4 min
    Google’s SynthID Detector: How to Check AI-Generated Images, Video and AudioGoogle’s SynthID Detector looks for an embedded watermark in supported images, video and audio. Here is what its results do—and do not—show.
  3. Redmond desk20 min
    How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows 11Windows 11 gives you several ways to point to a file or folder without moving or duplicating it. You can create a desktop shortcut,…
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.