Resetting the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) to its factory default settings is an essential task when troubleshooting or building a computer. The BIOS controls the system’s basic functions, such as booting and input/output information. It’s important to reset the BIOS when you first get your computer, after a major change in hardware or if the computer is failing to boot.
The exact steps to reset the BIOS to factory defaults will depend on the actual motherboard model and the type of BIOS used. Different types of BIOS include Award BIOS, AMI BIOS, Phoenix BIOS and proprietary OEM software. While some motherboards offer shortcuts to reset the BIOS, a full reset is still recommended as it ensures all settings are restored to their defaults. In general, there are two main ways to reset the BIOS: by pressing keys or via the BIOS interface.
Method 1: Resetting the BIOS Using Keys
The easiest way to reset the BIOS to factory defaults is to press a certain key or combination of keys during the startup process. This key might be displayed on the screen during the boot process or listed in the computer or motherboard manual. The key often appears with a message like “Press F2 to access BIOS” or “Press Del to enter Setup”. Here is a list of some popular keys for different BIOS models:
AwardBIOS/AMIBIOS: Del, F2, Esc, #
PheonixBIOS 4.0: Ctrl+Alt+Esc, Ctrl+Alt+Ins, Ctrl+Alt+S
PheonixBIOS 5.x: F1, F2, F11
Once you enter the BIOS setup, look for an option that says something like “Load Defaults”, “Restore BIOS Defaults”, “Default System Values”, “Reset to Factory Defaults” or something similar. Select this option and then save the changes and exit the BIOS. Some motherboards may also offer a specific button or switch to reset the BIOS to its defaults.
Method 2: Resetting the BIOS via the BIOS Interface
You can also reset the BIOS by entering the BIOS interface without pressing any keys. To do this, you need to access the BIOS menu. On most computers, the BIOS menu can be accessed by pressing a particular key or combination of keys during the startup process. The key(s) used to access the BIOS will appear on the screen with a message like “Press F2 to access BIOS” or “Press Del to enter Setup”. Once you enter the BIOS menu, look for an option that says something like “Load Defaults”, “Restore BIOS Defaults”, “Default System Values”, “Reset to Factory Defaults” or something similar. Select this option and then save the changes and exit the BIOS.
It’s important to note that resetting the BIOS to factory defaults does not permanently erase any data stored in the BIOS. The BIOS settings are only erased when the reset options are selected from within the BIOS menu. After resetting the BIOS, it’s always a good idea to check the BIOS version and update it if necessary. It’s also important to make sure the BIOS settings are configured correctly.
In summary, resetting the BIOS to its factory defaults is an essential task when troubleshooting or building a computer. There are two main ways to reset the BIOS: by pressing keys or via the BIOS interface. The exact steps to reset the BIOS to factory defaults will depend on the actual motherboard model and the type of BIOS used. Once you reset the BIOS, it’s important to check the BIOS version and configure the settings correctly.