How to Change Boot Order in BIOS

Changing which device your computer starts from is an easy process. If you’re trying to boot from a USB drive, CD, or any external media, knowing how to change boot order in BIOS is essential.

This tutorial explains the steps clearly and simply, ensuring you can follow along without confusion. Whether you’re using Windows 11, 10, Linux, or another system, this manual applies.

Why Adjust the Startup Sequence?

Sometimes, it’s important to start the computer from something other than the hard disk. You may want to run a disk cleanup tool, scan with a bootable antivirus, or install a fresh copy of an operating system. All of these need you to change boot order in BIOS first.

Step 1: Turn On or Reboot Your PC

Switch on or restart your machine. As it powers up, look for a message telling you which key to press to access BIOS. This could be Delete, F2, or another key, based on your computer’s manufacturer.

Tip: Press the key as soon as the screen appears—don’t wait too long.

Step 2: Access the BIOS Interface

Once you hit the correct key in time, you’ll enter the BIOS menu. This screen contains several settings for your device’s hardware.

While the layout will vary across brands, the basic structure is usually similar—top bar for tabs, center for options, and a bottom area showing how to move around.

Step 3: Go to the Boot Settings Section

Now that you’re in BIOS, use the keyboard hints shown on the screen to reach the section that controls boot order. This might be named:

Sometimes, these settings are found inside an Advanced or Other Settings tab.

Step 4: Check Current Boot Priority List

Once in the boot section, you’ll see a list of devices your system can start from—hard drives, USB ports, DVD drives, etc.

Here’s an example:

Your PC tries to boot from the first option listed. If it’s not bootable, it checks the next one, and so on.

Step 5: Change the Boot Order

To change boot order in BIOS, follow the tips on your screen. You may need to press the + or – keys, or use F5 and F6, depending on your BIOS version.

Example: Move “USB Drive” to the top if you want to boot from it first.

Each BIOS has different keys, so don’t follow one guide blindly. Always check your screen for exact controls.

Step 6: Save and Exit BIOS Settings

After reordering the devices, go to the Exit or Save and Exit tab. Look for an option like:

• Exit Saving Changes
  
• Save Configuration and Exit

Choose it using the instructions on the screen.

Step 7: Confirm Your Selection

Most BIOS setups will ask if you want to save changes. Select Yes to confirm. Be sure to read this screen carefully—it might have unclear wording. Saying “No” will discard your new settings.

Step 8: System Restarts with New Boot Settings

Your PC will now restart and follow the new order you set. If your first option has no operating system or bootable data, it will try the second device in the list.

Example: Boot from CD or DVD

Let’s say you made the CD/DVD drive your first boot device. You may now see a prompt like:

“Press any key to boot from CD…”

Not every CD or DVD will show this message. But for some bootable discs, you’ll need to press a key to continue.

Steps For Installing Windows Using BIOS

Knowing how to install Windows from BIOS can help when your system is not starting properly. First, get a bootable USB drive with the Windows setup files. Insert the USB into your PC and power it on.

While it starts, press the right key (like F2, Del, or Esc) to open the BIOS screen. Inside the BIOS menu, locate the boot section. Change the startup device to your USB drive. 

Use the listed keys to rearrange the order and place the USB at the top. Save changes and restart the machine. Now, your computer will boot directly from the USB. You’ll then see the Windows installation screen. Follow the setup prompts to complete the process.

That’s the simple process for how to install Windows from BIOS correctly.

Steps to Perform a PC Reset through BIOS

If your system won’t boot or you face major issues, learning how to reset the PC from the BIOS becomes important. First, enter BIOS by pressing the specific key during startup (e.g., Del, F10).

Once in the BIOS screen, go to the option that resets system settings. This may be called “Reset to Default,” “Load Setup Defaults,” or “Restore Defaults.”

Select the option and confirm the action. This won’t delete personal data, but it will return all BIOS settings to factory defaults.

To fully reset your system and remove files, you need to start from a Windows installation USB. Change the boot device to the USB in BIOS, save, and reboot. From the Windows setup screen, select “Repair your computer.” Then go to “Troubleshoot” > “Reset this PC.”

Final Note

Now you know how to change boot order in BIOS with clear and current instructions. Whether you’re troubleshooting, reinstalling an OS, or running a tool from a flash drive, these steps make sure your system starts from the correct device.