How to Access Command Prompt from BIOS
Launching the command prompt from BIOS can be a valuable troubleshooting method across various versions of Windows, including Windows 10, 11, and earlier UEFI-supported systems.
This method gives you a safe way to access advanced options when your operating system isn’t functioning properly or when you need to make critical system-level changes.
By following this detailed walkthrough, you’ll learn how to restart into the special boot environment where you can eventually enter the BIOS settings, regardless of your Windows version.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt with Administrator Rights
Begin by running Command Prompt as an administrator to execute high-level commands.
Here’s how to open it:
- Select the Start menu and type cmd.
- From the results, right-click on “Command Prompt”.
- Choose Run as administrator to launch it with full permissions.
You need these elevated rights to make changes that affect system-level behavior, like rebooting into firmware options.
Step 2: Use the Command to Restart into Advanced Boot
Now that the elevated Command Prompt is open, you’ll use a restart command that leads to the advanced startup interface.
Enter the following command exactly as shown:
shutdown /r /o /f /t 00
Explanation of the Parameters:
| Switch | Function |
| /r | Tell the system to reboot |
| /o | Boots into advanced startup |
| /f | Forces all programs to close |
| /t 00 | Waits zero seconds before rebooting |
Once entered, the system will shut down all running apps and immediately start the reboot process into the special boot options.
Step 3: Let the Computer Restart into the Boot Menu
Your device will now restart and display the Advanced Startup Options screen. This blue screen contains multiple recovery tools and is available on modern Windows versions, including 8, 10, and 11. Wait patiently for the menu to appear—it may take a minute or two.
Step 4: Access the Firmware Settings from the Boot Menu
Once you’re on the Advanced Options screen, you’ll need to move through a few selections to reach your firmware setup.
Follow these steps:
- Choose Troubleshoot
- Then click Advanced Options
- Select UEFI Firmware Settings
This will take you one step closer to entering BIOS. The interface may differ slightly depending on your Windows version and manufacturer, but the path is generally the same.
Step 5: Restart Directly into BIOS from the Menu
After clicking on UEFI Firmware Settings, hit Restart when prompted. This second restart takes you straight into the BIOS environment, where you can make system-level adjustments.
This is the standard way to go from command prompt from BIOS indirectly, regardless of whether you’re using Windows 10 or 11.
Tips to Follow When Using Command Prompt from BIOS
Make sure you keep the following points in mind when attempting this process:
- Backup Data First: Always save your important files before doing anything that involves BIOS or advanced system options.
- Record Current Settings: It’s a good idea to write down your existing BIOS configuration. This helps in case you need to roll back any changes.
- Avoid Unnecessary BIOS Updates: Updating the BIOS should only be done when truly needed. Always download updates directly from your system or motherboard manufacturer’s official site.
- Use a Reliable Power Source: A stable power connection is important during BIOS changes or updates to avoid interruption.
- Exit Without Saving if Unsure: If you don’t understand a change you’ve made, it’s safer to exit the BIOS without saving.
Questions About Using Command Prompt from BIOS
| Question | Answer |
| Can BIOS be entered without using Command Prompt? | Yes. Press keys like DEL, F2, or F10 during the boot process. |
| What is the purpose of BIOS? | BIOS initializes the hardware before the OS loads. |
| Is it safe to adjust BIOS settings? | Only if you know what you’re doing. Wrong changes can create system issues. |
| How do I reset BIOS to factory settings? | Look for “Load Default Settings” inside the BIOS interface. |
| What if pressing startup keys doesn’t open BIOS? | Try a different key or check your computer’s manual for the correct one. |
Quick Recap of the Process
Let’s summarize everything in a simplified table:
| Action | Description |
| Step 1 | Launch Command Prompt as an administrator |
| Step 2 | Run the shutdown command for an advanced reboot |
| Step 3 | Wait for the boot menu to appear |
| Step 4 | Select Troubleshoot > Advanced > Firmware Settings |
| Step 5 | Restart into BIOS |
This method works on systems running Windows 8 and later, including Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Final Notes
Accessing the command prompt from BIOS may sound complicated, but with the correct steps, it becomes manageable even for casual users.
This process helps users get into the BIOS interface using the command line method, especially useful when keyboard startup shortcuts don’t work.
Always double-check any changes made in the BIOS and avoid modifying unfamiliar settings. Whether you’re adjusting boot order, enabling virtualization, or solving boot issues, this guide ensures you get there safely.
Now that you know how to reach command prompt from BIOS, you’re ready to manage your system settings more confidently across all supported Windows versions.
