How to log in to the BIOS?

What is BIOS?

BIOS (basic input / output system, basic input / output system) Is a special program that is stored in a permanent-storage device chip. The BIOS is required, in particular, to boot the computer. What are the main functions of the BIOS?

The main functions of this program are:

1. Initial testing of all componentsthe computer after power-up (POST). If all the elements function properly, the BIOS transfers control to the program located in the boot sector of the boot disk - it loads the operating system.




2. Storage of computer hardware configuration inspecial chip CMOS-memory. When you turn on the computer, the BIOS compares the current computer configuration with the last saved. If there are differences in the configuration, the contents of the CMOS memory are updated. In the event that a configuration update without user intervention is not possible, the user is invited to call the BIOS Setup subroutine to manually specify the parameters of detected components. Usually, users call it "go into BIOS".




3. Manual indication of parameters and modes of operation of computer components or their disconnection (using BIOS Setup).




4. Processing of input-output operations.

All of these BIOS functions are interrelated and complementary.

How to log in to the BIOS?

In the ordinary user's mouth, "go into BIOS" means "Run the BIOS Setup subroutine". As mentioned above, this subroutine serves to configure the operation of individual hardware components of the computer.

To understand how to enter the BIOS, you need to understand, how does the computer boot?. When we press the power button, in the firstthe queue initializes and checks the devices. First, it reveals the presence of a processor and RAM modules. After that, the video adapter (video card) is initialized and tested. Often on the monitor screen you can see the parameters of the video card (type, memory size, etc.), but these messages may not be displayed.

Then the BIOS determines the amount of installedRAM and processor type, checks these devices. At the same stage, IDE / SATA devices, expansion cards (ID cards) are initialized and tested, and devices that are Plug and Play compliant are searched. After initialization and verification of all devices is displayed hardware configuration table (in most BIOS versions), and the operating system starts to boot.

Typically, the system suggests entering the BIOS (otherin words, run BIOS Setup) after the self-test (POST), at the time of initial initialization. In most cases, an inscription appears on the computer screen that prompts you to enter the BIOS Setup (for example, Press DEL to enter SETUP). You only have to enter to execute the instruction and press the Del (Delete) key on the computer keyboard until the inscription disappears.

Sometimes this message is not displayed. How to access the BIOS in this case? You need to turn on the computer, and as soon as the keyboard is initialized (this can be determined by flashing the Num Lock, Caps Lock and Scroll Lock indicators), press the DEL key several times in a row. Did not work out? Perhaps in your BIOS, the BIOS Setup is called by other key combinations. It can be such keys and combinations:

• F1 - for individual versions of the Phoenix BIOS


• F2 - for individual versions of Phoenix BIOS and Intel motherboards


• F10 - for individual versions of Phoenix BIOS


• Esc


• Ctrl + Alt + Esc


• Ctrl + Alt + Ins


• Ctrl + Alt

If these key combinations are not specified at boot time, they can be find the manual for your computer or motherboard. However, the Del key remains the mostcommon options. Sometimes a single keystroke or key combination is not enough to go into the BIOS. It is best to press a key or combination about 10-15 times for about 10 seconds.

We remind you that changing the BIOS parameters without extreme need is not recommended!