Windows — boot keys by brand

To enter BIOS/UEFI, Boot Menu or Safe Mode, press the right key right after power-on (before the Windows logo). The laptop/PC brand decides the key.

1. Typical keys by brand

  • Dell: F2 = BIOS/UEFI · F12 = Boot Menu · F8 / Shift+Restart = Safe Mode (Windows 10/11).
  • HP: Esc (menu) then F10 = BIOS · F9 = Boot Menu · F2 on some models.
  • Lenovo (ThinkPad): Enter then F1 = BIOS · F12 = Boot Menu · Novo Button on many IdeaPad.
  • ASUS: F2 / Del = BIOS · Esc = Boot Menu (sometimes F8).
  • Acer: F2 = BIOS · F12 = Boot Menu (sometimes enable “F12 Boot Menu” in BIOS first).
  • Samsung: F2 = BIOS · Esc / F10 = Boot Menu (varies).
  • MSI: Del = BIOS · F11 = Boot Menu.
  • Toshiba / Dynabook: F2 = BIOS · F12 = Boot Menu.
  • Microsoft Surface: hold volume-up + power for UEFI.
  • Generic desktop (ASUS/Gigabyte/MSI board): Del or F2 = BIOS · F8/F11/F12 = Boot Menu.

2. Safe Mode on Windows 10 / 11

  • If Windows boots: Start → Power → hold Shift + Restart → Troubleshoot → Advanced → Startup Settings → Restart → 4 or 5 (Safe Mode).
  • From the login screen: hold Shift + Restart (same path).
  • If Windows won’t boot: 2–3 forced power-offs can open Automatic Repair → Advanced options.
  • Classic F8 (Windows 7 / old BIOS) rarely works on modern UEFI.

3. Practical tips

  • Tap the key repeatedly right after power-on — don’t wait for the Windows logo.
  • On USB-C / fast boot: you may need to disable Fast Boot or hold the key longer.
  • Boot Menu ≠ BIOS: Boot Menu only picks the disk/USB; BIOS changes settings.
  • Forgotten BIOS password / brick after BIOS update — often needs service (CMOS jumper, EC, programmer).

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