Resetting BIOS settings is not a difficult task, but it is important to understand the implications of what you are doing before you make a change. The BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, is a special software that is stored on a computer’s motherboard. It controls the first steps in your computer’s startup process and allows for the setting of various system configuration options. Resetting BIOS settings can help resolve certain issues, such as if the computer will not start.
When resetting BIOS settings, you should be aware that all changes you make will take effect immediately; you do not need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect. However, some changes made within BIOS may require a restart before they will take effect.
There are two basic methods for resetting BIOS settings—using the UEFI firmware’s reset feature, or manually changing each setting back to its default value. The method you use will depend on the version of BIOS your computer has.
Using the UEFI Firmware’s Reset Feature
Some modern computers have a Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), which is a type of BIOS. The UEFI includes a feature that allows you to reset the system to its factory default settings. This reset feature is usually located within the Advanced tab of the BIOS settings. Depending on your computer’s model, the exact location of this feature may vary.
To access the reset feature, you must enter your computer’s BIOS settings. To do this, you will typically need to press the F2, F10, DEL, or ESC key when your computer is first starting up. Again, this may vary depending on your computer’s model. Once you have accessed the BIOS settings, look for an option labeled reset to defaults or factory defaults. This option will reset all of the BIOS settings to their original state.
Manually Changing Each Setting
If you do not have UEFI, or you would prefer to manually change each setting, you will need to open the BIOS settings and reset each setting individually. To do this, you will need to enter the BIOS settings and look around for the options you wish to reset. Once you have identified the settings you want to reset, simply change the value of each setting to its default value. If you are unsure of what the default value for a setting should be, it may be worth consulting your computer’s manual or referring to the websites of your computer’s manufacturer for more information.
Once you have changed all of the settings to their default values, save the changes and exit the BIOS settings. Your computer should now be running with the settings you just reset.
It is important to note that some changes made within the BIOS settings can cause irreversible damage to your computer. For example, changing the boot order or resetting the system clock can cause problems if not done correctly. Therefore, it is important to understand the implications of making any changes before you attempt to reset the BIOS settings.