The steps below can be used to access the BIOS setup program on your PC, regardless of which operating system is installed. This is because the BIOS is part of your motherboard hardware and has nothing to do with anything on your hard drive.

Getting into BIOS isn’t hard at all, but it can be tricky on some systems. Check out our extensive list of tips at the bottom of the page if you’re having trouble after trying.

Restart your computer, or turn it on if it is already off.

Watch for the message "entering setup" in the first few seconds after you turn on your computer. This message varies greatly from computer to computer and also includes the key or keys you need to press to enter BIOS.