FIXED: PC Not Booting to BIOS - 4 Solutions Explained

Accessing the BIOS is an essential part of working with any computer. It enables you to modify settings, apply necessary adjustments, or enhance performance by enabling or disabling certain options. Each PC has its own unique BIOS, as it is dependent on the motherboard.

However, there are instances when your PC won't boot to BIOS. So, how do you address this situation? Today, we will examine the reasons behind this issue and discuss a few methods to resolve it. Let's delve right in.

Why Won't My PC Boot to the BIOS?

If your PC fails to boot into BIOS, it's probable that there is an issue with it, or certain settings or adjustments are not configured correctly. BIOS settings are designed to facilitate troubleshooting and customization. Hence, if your PC is unable to access BIOS, several problems might be at play, including:

• You're pressing the incorrect keys, such as F2 instead of F10, F10, or DEL
• Your motherboard's CMOS battery has failed
• RAM or other hardware is preventing it from booting into BIOS
• The keyboard is malfunctioning, and the BIOS key does not work
• Broken or missing BIOS jumper on the motherboard
• The power connector is not properly seated
• Your motherboard is faulty
• The BIOS chip on your motherboard has become defective

If your PC doesn't boot into the BIOS, the issue could likely be one of these problems. Although you may not be able to fix the motherboard yourself, you can initiate an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) to have it repaired. Nevertheless, there are still other troubleshooting steps you can attempt. So, let's delve deeper to discover how to resolve this issue.

Occasionally, your computer might get stuck on the BIOS splash screen. If you find yourself in such a predicament, you can seek assistance from the article below.

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PC Stuck on BIOS Screen - How to Resolve?

This article explores 7 effective methods to assist you in fixing the issue of your PC being stuck on the BIOS screen. Read more >>

How to Troubleshoot a PC Not Booting to BIOS

Now that we understand why BIOS might not be functioning on your PC, let's explore some proven solutions. These remedies will assist in confirming that the BIOS is operational or, at the very least, that the issue is not software-related. Therefore, if your computer cannot access the BIOS, let's attempt each of the four fixes in turn.

• Solution 1: Use UEFI Firmware Settings
• Solution 2: Remove BIOS Battery to Reset CMOS
• Solution 3: Troubleshoot the RAM Sticks
• Solution 4: Fix the Faulty Power Connector

Fix 1: Utilize UEFI Firmware Settings

The first approach involves utilizing the UEFI firmware settings on your computer. If your keyboard is malfunctioning or any other issues are hindering you from accessing the BIOS, this solution might resolve the problem. Here's how to attempt this:

Step 1. Open the Start menu and type Settings, then click on it.

Step 2. Next, proceed to the Update & Security option.

Step 3. Inside Update & Security, tap on the Recovery option.

Tap on the Recovery option.

Step 4. Then select Advanced startup and click on Restart now.

Step 5. Wait for your PC to restart into Advanced startup/Recovery mode.

Step 6. In recovery mode, tap on Troubleshoot.

Step 7. Inside Troubleshoot, navigate to Advanced options.

Step 8. In the advanced options, click on UEFI Firmware Settings.

Step 9. Click on Restart to enter BIOS.

Step 10. Finished.

Here's how you can enter BIOS without fully restarting your PC or resorting to standard methods. However, if that doesn't work, attempt the alternative solutions.

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Fix 2. Remove BIOS Battery to Reset CMOS

The next step involves opening your computer case and attempting to reset the BIOS battery. However, it's crucial to perform this task correctly, as merely removing the battery might not fully reset your BIOS. Here's the proper procedure:

Step 1. Turn off your PC and unplug it from the wall outlet.

Step 2. Open your computer case and locate the CMOS battery.

Step 3. Push the battery latch back until the CMOS battery pops out.

Step 4. Once the battery is out, wait for 10 seconds.

Step 5. Replace the battery with the same one or a new one.

Step 6. Completed.

This will completely reset the BIOS. Upon restarting, you'll see a notification on the BIOS screen indicating that the BIOS has been reset.

Solution 3: Troubleshoot the RAM Sticks

Sometimes, you can resolve this issue by removing and reinserting your RAM modules. So, if your BIOS isn't functioning correctly, it's possible that one or two of your RAM sticks are causing the problem. Here's how to check if that's the issue:

Step 1. Open your PC case.

Step 2. Remove the RAM sticks.

Step 3. Use a pencil eraser to clean the connectors.

Step 4. Plug your RAM back in.

Step 5. Attempt to turn on the PC again.

Step 6. Finished.

This should most likely resolve the issue of your RAM preventing your PC from entering BIOS mode.

Fix 4. Repair the Defective Power Connector

Although you cannot repair a faulty power connector on your power supply, you can ensure that it is correctly connected. If you have recently made any hardware changes, it's possible that the power connector became loose or disrupted. Follow these steps to address the issue: 1. **Shut Down and Unplug**: First, safely shut down your computer and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet to prevent any electrical accidents. 2. **Access the Power Supply**: Depending on your computer case, you may need to remove screws or panels to access the internal components. Locate the power supply unit (PSU) at the back of the case. 3. **Identify the Power Connector**: Find the power connector that connects the PSU to the motherboard. This is usually a large 24-pin or 20+4-pin connector with multiple smaller connectors nearby for other components. 4. **Examine the Connector**: Carefully inspect the power connector and its socket on the motherboard for any signs of damage, such as bent pins or debris. 5. **Reseat the Connector**: Gently but firmly push the power connector back into place on the motherboard, making sure all the pins align correctly. Ensure that it clicks securely into position. 6. **Check Other Connectors**: While you're in there, also ensure that all other power connectors, like the CPU, GPU, and storage devices, are seated correctly. 7. **Reassemble and Test**: Put your computer back together and plug it back in. Turn it on and see if the issue persists. If the problem still occurs, it might be time to consider replacing the power supply or seeking professional assistance. Remember, if you're unsure about any part of this process or lack confidence in handling internal computer components, consult a knowledgeable friend or a professional technician for help.

Step 1. Locate the ATX 24-pin connector on your motherboard.

Step 2. Grab the ATX power cable and press the latch to release it.

Step 3. Unplug the cable, and then wait 10 seconds.

Step 4. Reconnect the cable.

Step 5. Finished.

This will reconnect the power cable to your PC's motherboard. After that, you can restart your PC, and the BIOS issue should be resolved.

Bonus Tip: How to Update BIOS Updating the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a crucial process that can improve your computer's stability, compatibility, and performance. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to update your BIOS: 1. **Backup Your Data**: Before starting any system-level changes, ensure you have backed up all important data to an external storage device. 2. **Check Current BIOS Version**: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the designated key during the boot process (usually F2, F10, DELETE, or ESC). Check the current BIOS version in the "System Information" or "About" section. 3. **Visit Manufacturer's Website**: Go to your computer manufacturer's official website, like Dell, HP, Lenovo, or Asus, and locate the Support or Downloads section. 4. **Find the Latest BIOS Update**: Enter your computer model number to search for the latest BIOS update. Download the update file to a known location on your desktop. 5. **Create a Bootable USB**: If the update is in the form of an ISO file, you'll need to create a bootable USB drive. Use software like Rufus (for Windows) or BalenaEtcher (cross-platform) to write the ISO image to the USB. 6. **Prepare for BIOS Update**: Disable Secure Boot in the BIOS settings and enable USB booting if necessary. Save changes and exit, then restart your computer. 7. **Boot from USB**: Insert the USB drive and restart your computer. Press the boot menu key (usually F9, F12, or another function key) during the boot process to select the USB drive as the boot device. 8. **Follow On-screen Instructions**: The BIOS update utility will launch, guiding you through the update process. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. 9. **Do Not Power Off**: During the update, do not turn off your computer, unplug it, or interrupt the process in any way. This can cause serious hardware damage. 10. **Reboot and Verify**: Once the update is complete, your computer will likely reboot automatically. Check the BIOS version again to confirm the update was successful. 11. **Restore Default Settings**: It's often recommended to reset the BIOS to its default settings after an update. This can be found in the "Load Optimized Defaults" or "Load Setup Defaults" option. 12. **Save and Exit**: Save your changes and exit the BIOS. Your system should now be running with the updated BIOS. Remember, BIOS updates can carry risks, so only perform this process if you're confident in your abilities or if there's a specific issue that the update addresses.

Updating your BIOS can prevent common issues such as data loss and system failures. Additionally, it's advisable to update your BIOS to take advantage of any new security features and bug fixes that your motherboard manufacturer may have released.

However, before proceeding with BIOS update, it's recommended to create a system image in case something goes wrong during the BIOS update process.

In such cases, Todo Backup Home comes to the rescue. This fantastic tool is all you need to create a backup.

It has become the preferred choice for numerous users worldwide, and it is perfect for creating backups for various reasons. Some of these reasons include:

• Capability to back up your system, disk, file, etc.
• Create full, differential and incremental backups
• Convenient system backup and recovery with just a few clicks
• Compress backups to conserve storage space
• Store your backup in a complimentary 250GB cloud storage

These are the primary reasons you need this tool to assist in creating a system backup that's easy to restore. Once the backup is created, you can proceed to update your BIOS from a USB. Here's what you need to do to successfully update BIOS from a USB:

1. Download the correct BIOS from your motherboard manufacturer's website.
2. Format the USB drive to the FAT32 file system.
3. Copy the BIOS file onto the USB drive.
4. Boot your PC from the USB drive.
5. Update the BIOS, or use the UEFI BIOS option for the update process.
6. Completion.

Upon completion, your PC's BIOS will be updated, and you will have an additional backup. This makes it simpler to restore your system to its previous state using the tools provided by Todo Backup Home.

There are two articles available that guide you through the process of updating BIOS. Should you require more detailed information, I recommend reading them.

The Bottom Line

Here are some of the most effective methods to resolve the issue if your PC won't boot to BIOS. After following these steps, you should be able to easily enter your PC's BIOS. You may also attempt using alternative keys like F10 and F12, as different motherboard manufacturers utilize various keys for accessing the BIOS.

However, these methods will assist you in identifying the exact issue with your PC's BIOS. Furthermore, they will aid in proper diagnosis and determining whether the problem lies in the hardware.

Creating a backup of your computer is always a wise precaution in case something goes wrong. If you intend to update your BIOS, ensure the safety of your data by using a system backup tool like Todo Backup Home.

FAQs on PC Not Booting to BIOS

1. Can BIOS be hacked?

Yes, it can. A BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a memory chip present on your computer's motherboard that stores the firmware for the motherboard. If this chip is damaged or malfunctioning, the BIOS will not function properly. Additionally, the BIOS is powered by the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) battery when the PC is turned off. Hence, if the CMOS battery is faulty or dead, it can also lead to BIOS issues.

2. Can malware destroy the BIOS?

Yes, malware can indeed corrupt or delete the BIOS file from the chip. As a direct consequence, this will render your computer inoperable until the BIOS is repaired or replaced.

3. Why is my PC booting to BIOS instead of Windows?

If your PC is booting directly into BIOS instead of Windows, it's probable that your storage configuration is incorrect. Therefore, you should access the Boot options and set the priority to the device where Windows is installed.

4. What causes BIOS to fail?

Various issues can lead to BIOS failure. Sudden power outages are among the most common causes of BIOS chip failures. Other reasons include technical malfunctions, malware infections, or users inadvertently "bricking" the BIOS while attempting to update it.